Vegetable soup

Vegetable Soup for Fasting - A Healthy and Comforting Delight

When it comes to fasting dishes, nothing compares to a rich and aromatic vegetable soup. This recipe not only adds a boost of vitamins and minerals to your diet, but it is also extremely versatile, allowing you to use the vegetables you have on hand. Get ready to discover how you can transform a few simple ingredients into a flavorful soup that will delight the whole family.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30-35 minutes
Total: 50 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Ingredients:
- 5-6 medium potatoes
- 1/2 cabbage (about 300-400 g)
- 1/2 cauliflower (about 300-400 g)
- 2 large onions
- 1 bell pepper
- 1 sweet pepper
- 2-3 tablespoons of homemade borscht
- 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Dried or fresh thyme (to preference)
- Fresh chopped parsley, for serving

A bit of history:
Vegetable soup is one of the oldest and most appreciated dishes in traditional cuisine. Over time, people have learned to make the most of what their gardens offer, creating diverse recipes adapted to the season and the availability of ingredients. This simple and healthy recipe has remained popular due to its comforting taste and nutritional benefits.

Step by step for a perfect vegetable soup:

1. Prepare the ingredients:
- Peel the potatoes and cut them into small cubes, about 1-2 cm. This will help them cook evenly.
- Break the cauliflower into medium-sized florets. If using fresh cauliflower, make sure to wash it well to remove any impurities.
- Cut the cabbage into thin strips. Young cabbage is sweeter and less fibrous, making it ideal for soup.
- Finely chop the onions and peppers for easier sautéing.

2. Boil the vegetables:
In a large pot, add water up to three-quarters full and bring it to a boil. When the water starts boiling, add the potatoes and cauliflower. Let them boil for 5 minutes.

3. Add the cabbage:
After 5 minutes, add the chopped cabbage. This is when the soup's aroma begins to develop, and the vegetables harmonize. Boil everything for about 10-15 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.

4. Sauté the onions and peppers:
In a pan, add a little olive oil and sauté the chopped onions and peppers. This process will intensify the flavors and add a special taste to the soup. Sauté them for 5-7 minutes until they become soft and translucent.

5. Combine everything:
Add the sautéed onions and peppers to the pot with the boiled vegetables. Mix well and season with salt and pepper to taste. Add thyme - this will provide a note of freshness and enrich the soup's aroma.

6. Add the borscht:
Finally, add 2-3 tablespoons of homemade borscht. The borscht will give the soup a pleasant sour taste, typical of traditional dishes. Let it boil for another 5 minutes for the flavors to meld.

7. Serving:
When the soup is ready, add fresh chopped parsley for a splash of color and freshness. Serve the soup hot, alongside a slice of fresh bread. A delicious option is to pair it with a summer salad for a complete and healthy lunch.

Variations and useful tips:
- Customize your soup: You can add vegetables like carrots, celery, or zucchini, depending on your preferences. Each vegetable will bring a distinct flavor and enrich the dish's texture.
- Experiment with spices: Besides thyme, you can try bay leaves, basil, or even a splash of lemon juice for a fresher taste.
- Heartier soup: If you want a heartier soup, you can also add some pre-cooked beans or lentils.
- Recommended drinks: A warm soup pairs perfectly with a glass of mineral water or herbal tea, which will complement the meal in a healthy way.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use frozen vegetables? Yes, frozen vegetables are an excellent choice, especially if you don't have fresh vegetables on hand. Make sure to let them thaw before adding them to the soup.
- How long can I keep the soup? Vegetable soup keeps well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. You can refreeze it if you made a larger batch.
- Is this dish suitable for vegans? Absolutely! This vegetable soup is completely vegan and provides all the necessary nutrients.

Vegetable soup is more than just a simple fasting dish; it is a celebration of taste and health. With every spoonful, you will feel more energetic and alive. So dare to experiment and personalize your recipe for a unique culinary experience!