Vegetable soup

Vegetable soup is a true treasure in the culinary world, a recipe that reminds us of the comfort of home and the moments spent with loved ones. This soup is not only easy to prepare but can also be adapted to everyone's taste, allowing for creativity in the kitchen. It is a versatile soup recipe, perfect for chilly days and for moments when you need a boost of vitamins and nutrients.

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Number of Servings: 4

Necessary Ingredients:
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 carrot, diced
- 1 potato, peeled and cubed
- 200 g broccoli, cut into florets
- 100 g peas (fresh or frozen)
- 100 g corn (canned or frozen)
- 1 vegetable stock cube
- 3 cups of water (approximately 750 ml)
- 1 teaspoon dried tarragon (preferably French)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil or butter for sautéing

Brief History:
Vegetable soup is a dish that has traversed centuries and cultures, being an excellent way to utilize seasonal vegetables and create a hearty and healthy meal. It reflects the philosophy of home cooking, where fresh ingredients are transformed into delicious dishes, offering an explosion of flavors and nutrients.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Preparing the Ingredients:
Start by peeling and chopping all the vegetables. The onion should be finely chopped, the carrot and potato diced, and the broccoli broken into small florets. This preparation will help you save time during cooking and allow for a smoother process.

2. Sautéing the Vegetables:
In a large pot, add 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil or a small piece of butter. Heat the oil over medium heat and add the onion. Sauté the onion for 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent. Adding heat to the onion will intensify its flavors, providing a savory base for the soup.

3. Adding the Vegetables:
Once the onion is sautéed, add the carrot and potato. Mix well to combine the flavors and let them sauté for 5 minutes. This step is essential for encouraging the vegetables to release their natural juices.

4. Adding Water and Stock:
Pour the 3 cups of water into the pot. Add the vegetable stock cube, stirring well to dissolve it. This will give the soup an intense and flavorful taste.

5. Boiling the Soup:
Let the soup boil over medium heat for about 15 minutes, or until the carrots and potatoes are tender. During this time, the flavors will meld, and the soup will achieve a wonderful consistency.

6. Adding the Green Vegetables:
After the root vegetables are cooked, add the broccoli florets, peas, and corn. Let the soup boil for another 5-7 minutes until the broccoli turns vibrant green and crisp but not too soft. These green vegetables will add texture and color, making the soup not only tasty but also visually appealing.

7. Seasoning:
Finally, add the dried tarragon, salt, and pepper to taste. The tarragon, with its distinct flavor, will give the soup a delicate and refined accent. It is recommended to taste it before adding salt to adjust the flavor to your liking.

8. Serving:
The soup is now ready to be served! You can choose to serve it plain or accompany it with crunchy croutons or a slice of whole-grain bread. A spoonful of sour cream or Greek yogurt added on top will bring extra creaminess and make the soup even more delicious.

Practical Tip:
If you want to enhance the flavor of the soup even more, you can add fresh herbs like parsley or basil at the end. Also, feel free to experiment with your favorite vegetables – zucchini, celery, or bell peppers are just a few suggestions that will add a delicious taste.

Possible Variations:
- Quinoa Vegetable Soup: Add 100 g of rinsed quinoa during boiling for an extra boost of protein and texture.
- Spicy Vegetable Soup: Add a chopped chili pepper or a bit of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
- Creamy Vegetable Soup: After all the vegetables are cooked, blend the soup with an immersion blender for a creamy texture.

Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Can I use frozen vegetables?
Yes, frozen vegetables are an excellent choice and can be used directly in the recipe. Just make sure to let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes before adding them to the soup.

2. How long does the soup last in the fridge?
The soup keeps well in the fridge for 3-4 days. You can reheat it over low heat or in the microwave.

3. Can I freeze vegetable soup?
Yes, the soup can be frozen. Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to freezing containers.

Nutritional Benefits:
This vegetable soup is rich in vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Fresh vegetables provide a significant amount of antioxidants, helping to strengthen the immune system and maintain optimal health. Regular consumption of vegetables is associated with a reduced risk of chronic diseases and improved digestion.

Vegetable soup is more than just a simple recipe; it is a culinary experience that combines flavor, health, and comfort. So, embrace this recipe and bring a touch of joy to every bowl. Enjoy your meal!