Vegetable soup

Vegetable soup with homemade flavor

When it comes to cooking, nothing compares to a warm and comforting vegetable soup. This vegetable soup recipe is not only delicious but also healthy, offering a vibrant mix of fresh vegetables, each with its own nutritional benefits. Vegetable soup is a traditional dish loved by all, easily adaptable based on available ingredients and personal preferences.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Number of servings: 4-6

Ingredients you need:
- 5 medium potatoes
- 1 large onion
- 1 carrot
- 1 parsnip
- 1 parsley root
- 3 celery sticks
- 1 red or yellow bell pepper
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil or vegetable oil
- 1 can of tomatoes (about 400 g)
- A bunch of fresh parsley
- Salt and vegetable seasoning (to taste)
- Water (enough to cover the vegetables)

Useful tips for choosing ingredients:
- Choose fresh, seasonal vegetables to benefit from the best flavors and nutrients.
- Potatoes should be of the right type for boiling, such as red or yellow ones, as they do not break down easily.
- If you enjoy intense flavors, you can add spices like pepper or sweet paprika, which will enrich the soup.

Preparing the vegetable soup:
1. Start by peeling and chopping all the vegetables. The onion, bell pepper, carrot, celery, parsnip, and parsley root should be diced into small cubes, while the potatoes should be cut into larger cubes suitable for cooking.
2. In a 4-liter pot, add the oil and the chopped vegetables, except for the potatoes, tomatoes, and bell pepper. Place the pot over medium heat and sauté the vegetables for 5-7 minutes until they become slightly translucent and soft. This step is essential to intensify the flavors of the vegetables.
3. After the vegetables have sautéed, fill the pot with water to cover all the ingredients. Add the diced potatoes and let everything simmer on low heat, partially covering the pot.
4. After about 15 minutes, when the potatoes are nearly cooked, add the diced canned tomatoes and the chopped bell pepper. Continue to simmer the soup for another 10-15 minutes until all the vegetables are tender.
5. Finally, add the finely chopped fresh parsley, a pinch of salt, and vegetable seasoning to taste. Let the soup come to a boil again, then turn off the heat.

Serving and variations:
Vegetable soup can be served hot, with a slice of fresh bread or crispy croutons. It is perfect to enjoy alongside a green salad or a serving of rice. You can also add a tablespoon of sour cream or yogurt for extra creaminess if you are not following a fasting diet.

Nutritional benefits:
This vegetable soup is packed with essential vitamins and minerals. The vegetables used are rich in fiber, which aids digestion, and vitamins A, C, K, and many others. It is also a low-calorie recipe, making it ideal for those looking to eat healthily.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use frozen vegetables? Yes, you can use frozen vegetables, but it is recommended to let them thaw before adding them to the pot.
- Can I replace canned tomatoes with fresh tomatoes? Absolutely! Fresh tomatoes are an excellent choice and will provide a wonderful taste, but you will need to blanch and peel them.
- What are the best vegetables to add? Besides those mentioned, you can experiment with zucchini, eggplant, or green beans.

This dish is a simple recipe that combines the natural flavors of vegetables and can be customized according to your tastes. Remember, vegetable soup is more than just a simple dish; it is a way to bring family and friends together, share moments of joy, and savor the goodness of nature. So, put on your apron, prepare your ingredients, and let yourself be carried away by the aroma of this delicious soup!