Vegetable cream soup

Vegetable Cream Soup - A Warm Embrace in a Bowl

Are you tired of fancy meals and complicated dishes? Do you dream of a simple, comforting, and creamy recipe? Then vegetable cream soup is the perfect choice! This recipe will not only warm your soul but is also an excellent way to incorporate a variety of vegetables into your diet. Plus, it is a versatile recipe that you can adapt to your preferences.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Necessary ingredients:
- 2 small potatoes (about 200 g)
- 1 medium onion (about 100 g)
- 2 ripe tomatoes (about 200 g)
- 2 carrots (about 150 g)
- 1 small celery (about 100 g)
- 1 small red bell pepper (about 80 g)
- 1 cube of butter (about 20 g)
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil (about 15 ml)
- About 2 liters of water
- Salt and pepper to taste

Nutritional benefits:
This soup is packed with essential vitamins and minerals. Fresh vegetables provide a generous amount of fiber, which aids digestion and contributes to overall well-being. Tomatoes are an excellent source of antioxidants, while potatoes and carrots offer healthy energy. Olive oil brings healthy fats, essential for the optimal functioning of the body.

Preparation steps:

1. Preparing the vegetables: Start by washing all the vegetables thoroughly. Peel the potatoes, carrots, onion, and celery. Cut the vegetables into small cubes to cook evenly and quickly. The tomatoes can be quartered, and the bell pepper into strips.

2. Boiling the vegetables: In a large pot, add 2 liters of water, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Add the chopped vegetables (potatoes, onion, carrots, celery, bell pepper, and tomatoes) to the water. Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat and let the vegetables simmer for 25-30 minutes until tender.

3. Blending the soup: Once the vegetables are cooked, remove the pot from the heat. Using an immersion blender or a regular blender, blend the hot vegetables until you achieve a creamy consistency. Add the butter cube during blending to enrich the flavor of the soup.

4. Adjusting the taste: Taste the soup and adjust salt and pepper as needed. If the soup is too thick, you can add a little hot water to reach the desired consistency.

5. Serving: Serve the vegetable cream soup hot, sprinkled with chopped herbs (such as parsley or dill) for an added touch of freshness. Don't forget about the crunchy croutons, which can add a pleasant contrast of textures.

Tips and suggestions:
- You can customize this soup by adding other vegetables, such as zucchini, pumpkin, or even asparagus. Each variation will bring a different flavor and a range of nutrients.
- If you prefer a stronger taste, try adding spices like turmeric or cumin. These will not only enhance the flavor but also provide anti-inflammatory benefits.
- The soup can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days and can be frozen for later use. Make sure to let it cool completely before freezing.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can the soup be made vegan? Absolutely! You can omit the butter cube and use only olive oil to keep the recipe vegan.
- Can I use frozen vegetables? Yes! Frozen vegetables are a good alternative and will save you time. Just make sure to add them to the water during boiling, according to the package instructions.
- What can I pair the soup with? This soup pairs perfectly with a fresh green salad or a slice of toasted whole-grain bread. You can also accompany it with a glass of dry white wine or a herbal tea for a complete and comforting meal.

I wish you happy cooking and encourage you to explore this simple yet delicious recipe! Vegetable cream soup is not just a meal, but an experience of comfort and joy in every spoonful. Enjoy every moment spent in the kitchen and don't forget to savor the results of your hard work!