Vegetable soup (vegan)

Lenten vegetable soup: A warm and comforting delicacy

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

On a chilly day, there’s nothing more comforting than a warm and tasty vegetable soup. This Lenten vegetable soup recipe is not only simple and quick but also packed with flavors and nutrients, making it perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a healthy meal.

A bit of history: Vegetable soup has deep roots in traditional cuisine, prepared in various forms over time. This recipe is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can transform into a delicious dish, ideal to be served as an appetizer or a main course.

Necessary ingredients:
- 2 medium onions
- 4-5 medium potatoes
- 3 carrots
- 1 medium celery
- 1 red bell pepper
- 1 green bell pepper
- 1 tablespoon of vegetable concentrate (like Knorr)
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley
- 4 tomatoes in juice (or fresh tomatoes, if preferred)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Water (2 liters)

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by peeling and chopping all the vegetables. Chop the onions finely, and cut the carrots, celery, and potatoes into cubes. The peppers can be sliced or cubed, depending on preference. Make sure the parsley is well washed and chopped finely, leaving some for decoration at the end.

2. Boiling the water: In a large pot, add the 2 liters of water and bring to a boil. You can use filtered or spring water to enhance the soup's flavor.

3. Adding the vegetable concentrate: Once the water has started to boil, add a tablespoon of vegetable concentrate (like Knorr). This will give the soup a rich flavor and enhance the aroma of all the vegetables.

4. Adding the hard vegetables: After 2-3 minutes of boiling, add the onion, carrots, bell peppers, and celery. Let them boil for 15 minutes until they start to soften. These vegetables are essential for giving the soup a robust flavor base.

5. Adding the potatoes: Once the vegetables have softened, add the diced potatoes. This ingredient will make the soup heartier and transform it into a filling dish.

6. Continuing to boil: Cover the pot with a lid and let the soup simmer over medium heat until all the vegetables are cooked (about 15-20 minutes). Check occasionally, stirring gently to prevent the vegetables from sticking to the bottom of the pot.

7. Finishing the soup: About 5 minutes before turning off the heat, add the tomatoes in juice (or fresh tomatoes, diced). These will add a touch of acidity and a fresh taste to the soup. Let it boil for a few more moments, then turn off the heat.

8. Adding the parsley: Finally, add the remaining parsley for an extra burst of flavor and color. Cover the pot with a lid and let the soup rest for a few minutes before serving.

Serving: You can serve the vegetable soup hot, with fresh bread or crunchy croutons. A delicious option is to add a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil for extra flavor. This soup pairs perfectly with a seasonal salad or a refreshing drink, such as herbal tea.

Practical tips:
- You can vary the vegetables according to the season or personal preferences. For example, add zucchini or peas for a different taste.
- If you want a spicier soup, you can add a hot pepper or a little cayenne pepper.
- This soup can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days and can be frozen for later use.

Nutritional benefits: Vegetable soup is rich in vitamins and minerals, with low calorie content. It is an excellent option for detoxification and maintaining a balanced diet. Vegetables are important sources of fiber, which contributes to healthy digestion.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use frozen vegetables? Yes, frozen vegetables are a convenient alternative and can save time.
2. How can I enhance the soup's flavor? Try adding a crushed garlic clove or spices like thyme or basil.
3. Is this recipe suitable for vegans? Absolutely! All ingredients are plant-based.

Now that you have all the necessary information, it’s time to start cooking! This Lenten vegetable soup is not only a healthy choice but also a pleasant way to bring some warmth and comfort into the colder days. Enjoy!