Vegetable soup

Vegetable Soup - A Healthy and Colorful Recipe

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30-40 minutes
Total time: 45-55 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Vegetable soup is a classic recipe, cherished by many generations, that brings together the flavors and textures of a wide variety of vegetables. This soup is not only delicious but also extremely nutritious, providing health benefits thanks to fresh, vitamin-rich ingredients. It is an excellent choice for those who want to enjoy a light dish full of flavor and color.

Ingredients:
- 2-3 medium potatoes
- 1 large carrot
- 1 parsnip
- 2 small onions
- 100g green beans
- Spinach (fresh or frozen, as preferred)
- ½ can peeled tomatoes (or 2 fresh tomatoes)
- 1 tablespoon magic borscht (or to taste)
- 1 tablespoon dried lovage (preferably fresh, if available)
- Salt, to taste
- Water

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Preparing the base:
Start by filling a large pot with water and adding a pinch of salt. Bring the water to a boil over medium heat. This step is essential, as the salt will help enhance the flavors of the vegetables.

2. Chopping the vegetables:
- Peel the potatoes and cut them into uniform cubes, about 1-2 cm. This will ensure even cooking.
- The carrot and parsnip should be cut into sticks, which will give the soup a pleasant appearance and a crunchy texture.
- The onion should be finely chopped to dissolve better in the soup, adding a savory flavor.
- The green beans can be sliced into 1-2 cm pieces to integrate well into the soup.
- If using fresh spinach, wash it well and chop it. If frozen, there is no need to thaw it before adding.

3. Boiling the vegetables:
Once the water starts to boil, add all the prepared vegetables to the pot. Reduce the heat to low and let the vegetables simmer, stirring occasionally. This will help release the flavors.

4. Adding the tomatoes:
After the potatoes and other vegetables have boiled for about 20 minutes (until slightly tender), add the chopped tomatoes (if using fresh tomatoes, make sure to peel them). The tomatoes will add a sweet-sour taste to the soup.

5. Final flavor:
After adding the tomatoes, add the magic borscht and dried lovage. Let the soup simmer for another 10-15 minutes so that the flavors blend harmoniously. Check the taste and adjust the salt if necessary.

6. Serving:
Vegetable soup is served hot, alongside a slice of homemade potato bread or, for those who prefer a bit of spice, add a fresh chili pepper. This combination will turn the soup into a culinary delight!

Practical tips:
- You can add other vegetables depending on the season and preferences, such as zucchini, celery, or even cabbage.
- For an extra protein boost, add legumes like lentils or chickpeas, which pair perfectly with the vegetables.
- If you want a heartier soup, add a handful of rice or small pasta during the boiling.

Nutritional benefits:
Vegetable soup is an excellent source of fiber, vitamins (A, C), and minerals, all of which play an important role in maintaining health. It is also low in calories, making it an ideal choice for those looking to maintain their weight or adopt a healthy lifestyle.

Stories and variations:
Over the years, vegetable soup has been adapted in various ways to suit local tastes. Every family has its own recipe, often passed down through generations. This is what makes vegetable soup so special – it is a personalized dish that reflects each person's culinary traditions.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use frozen vegetables? Yes, frozen vegetables are an excellent option, especially out of season. Just make sure to add them directly to the pot without thawing.
- How can I store the soup? The soup can be stored in the refrigerator in airtight containers for 3-4 days. It can also be frozen for later consumption.
- What drinks pair well with vegetable soup? A cold drink, such as tomato juice or green tea, perfectly complements the meal.

Vegetable soup is more than just a simple dish – it is a celebration of fresh ingredients and culinary traditions. Enjoy every serving and let yourself be inspired by the natural flavors it offers! Bon appétit!