Vegetable cream soup with croutons

Vegetable Cream Soup with Croutons

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Welcome to the world of delicious soups! Today, I will share my favorite recipe for vegetable cream soup with croutons. This soup is not only packed with vitamins but also extremely tasty, making it perfect for both everyday meals and special occasions. It is an excellent choice in diets, being low in calories and rich in essential nutrients. Let's get started!

A Brief History of Soup

Vegetable cream soup is a traditional dish in many cultures, with deep roots in cuisines around the world. It is an excellent way to use leftover or seasonal vegetables, transforming them into a comforting and nourishing meal. Vegetable cream is a versatile choice that can be adapted to individual preferences, being a true symbol of culinary comfort.

Necessary Ingredients

For the soup:
- 1 onion
- 2 carrots
- 2 parsnips
- 2 potatoes
- 2 garlic cloves
- 1 bell pepper (preferably red for added color)
- 2-3 tablespoons of butter (or olive oil if you prefer a vegan option)
- Salt, pepper, and sweet paprika to taste
- Fresh parsley, finely chopped, for garnish

For the croutons:
- 4 slices of bread (preferably whole grain for added fiber)
- Olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves, crushed

Preparation Technique

1. Preparing the vegetables: Wash all the vegetables well. Peel the onion, carrots, parsnips, and potatoes. Cut the onion into small pieces, the carrots and parsnips into rounds, and the bell pepper into large cubes. Slice the garlic, and dice the potatoes into small cubes.

2. Sautéing the vegetables: In a large pot, add the 2-3 tablespoons of butter (or olive oil) and let it melt over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until it becomes translucent. This is when the aroma develops, and the soup will gain a special flavor.

3. Adding the vegetables: Add the carrots, parsnips, bell pepper, and potatoes to the pot. Season with salt, pepper, and a teaspoon of sweet paprika. Mix well and let the vegetables sauté for a few minutes to release their flavors.

4. Boiling: Add 2-3 cups of water to the pot, enough to cover the vegetables. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes until the vegetables are soft.

5. Preparing the croutons: Meanwhile, let's take care of the croutons! Cut the slices of bread into equal-sized cubes. Preheat the oven to 180°C. Line a baking tray with parchment paper, add the bread cubes, and bake for about 5-7 minutes until they become slightly crispy. Remove the tray, drizzle the croutons with olive oil, and sprinkle the crushed garlic. Return to the oven for another 3-5 minutes until golden and aromatic.

6. Blending the vegetables: Once the vegetables are cooked, remove the pot from the heat. Using an immersion blender or a regular blender, puree the vegetables until you achieve a smooth paste. Gradually add the soup in which the vegetables cooked, adjusting the consistency according to personal preference – I prefer it thicker for a rich texture.

7. Serving: Once the soup has the desired consistency, taste and adjust the seasonings if necessary. Finally, add the freshly chopped parsley and mix well. Serve the soup hot, garnished with the crispy croutons on top.

Useful Tips

- Choose seasonal vegetables: This will not only enhance the flavor of the soup but also reduce costs. You can experiment with other vegetables like zucchini, beetroot, or broccoli.
- Vegan option: Use olive oil instead of butter and ensure the bread is also dairy-free to keep the dish vegan.
- Add spices: A great idea is to experiment with spices like cumin or turmeric to give the soup a unique flavor and color.
- Storing soups: Vegetable cream soup keeps well in the fridge for 3-4 days and can be frozen for later consumption. Make sure to let it cool completely before placing it in airtight containers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I add meat to this soup?
Of course! You can add chicken or beef cubes, which you can sauté along with the onion, giving the soup an additional flavor and substance.

How can I enhance the flavor of the soup?
You can add a few bay leaves during boiling or a splash of lemon juice for a touch of freshness.

What other recipes can this soup be paired with?
Vegetable cream soup pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad or a cheese sandwich. You can also serve it as an appetizer before a hearty main course.

Calories and Nutritional Benefits

A serving of vegetable cream soup has approximately 150-200 calories, depending on the ingredients used. It is an excellent source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as fiber, which helps maintain digestive health.

The story of vegetable cream soup is one of comfort, health, and adaptability. Prepare it with love and enjoy every spoonful! Bon appétit!