Vegetable soup with potatoes and ham

Vegetable soup with potatoes and smoked bacon: A warm hug in a bowl

Vegetable soup with potatoes and smoked bacon is a simple yet flavorful recipe that brings together basic garden ingredients and the delicious flavors of smoked bacon. Whether you enjoy it on a chilly day or serve it for lunch as a comforting meal, this soup has all the necessary ingredients to warm your soul. It is a quick recipe that requires no special skills but promises an explosion of flavor in every spoonful.

General Information

- Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 25 minutes
- Total time: 40 minutes
- Number of servings: 4

Ingredients

- 2 carrots
- 1 parsley root
- 1 medium onion
- 4 medium potatoes
- 200 g smoked bacon
- 2 tablespoons sunflower or olive oil
- 4 tablespoons tomato paste
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Juice from chili pepper, to preference
- Thyme or fresh parsley, for decoration

Preparing the soup

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by peeling the carrots, parsley root, and onion. Cut them into cubes about 1 cm. Also, peel the potatoes and cut them into cubes. The smoked bacon should be cut into small cubes to integrate perfectly into the soup.

2. Heating the oil: In a large pot, add the oil and place it over medium heat. Wait a few minutes until the oil is well heated, but do not let it smoke.

3. Sautéing the vegetables and bacon: Add the vegetables (carrots, parsley root, and onion) to the pot. Sauté them for 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until the onion becomes translucent. Then, add the bacon cubes and let them fry lightly for another 2-3 minutes to combine the flavors.

4. Adding water: After the bacon is sautéed, add water (approximately 1.5 liters) and bring everything to a boil. Let it boil for 10 minutes, covering the pot with a lid.

5. Incorporating the potatoes: After 10 minutes, add the potato cubes to the pot. Continue to boil the soup over medium heat for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are completely cooked and soft.

6. Adjusting the soup: Once the vegetables and potatoes are cooked, add the tomato paste, salt, pepper, and chili pepper juice to taste. Mix well and let the soup boil for another 5 minutes so that all the flavors combine.

7. Serving: The soup is now ready to be served! You can garnish it with fresh thyme or chopped parsley and accompany it with a spoonful or two of sour cream for added creaminess.

Helpful tips

- Choosing ingredients: Use fresh, seasonal vegetables for a more intense flavor. If you have garden vegetables, even better! The smoked bacon can be replaced with bacon or even a vegetarian option using smoked tofu.

- Variations: You can also add other vegetables, such as celery or zucchini, to diversify the recipe. Additionally, you can experiment with different herbs, such as basil or oregano, for a different flavor profile.

- Serving: This soup pairs perfectly with fresh, crusty bread. A slice of homemade bread or a baguette can transform the meal into an even more enjoyable experience.

Nutritional benefits

This soup is not only delicious but also nutritious. The vegetables provide essential vitamins (A, C, K), fiber, and antioxidants, while the bacon adds protein and a smoky flavor that enriches every spoonful. A serving of soup has approximately 220 calories, depending on the ingredients used.

Frequently asked questions

- Can I use frozen vegetables? Yes, frozen vegetables are a convenient option and can save time. Make sure to thaw them before adding them to the soup.

- How long can the soup be stored? The soup can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days, and the flavor will intensify as it sits.

- Can the soup be frozen? Yes, the soup can be frozen. Make sure to let it cool completely before placing it in containers for freezing.

Conclusion

Vegetable soup with potatoes and smoked bacon is an excellent choice for a quick and comforting meal. Easy to prepare and full of flavor, this recipe will surely become a family favorite. Don’t forget to experiment with the ingredients and adapt the recipe to your taste. Start cooking and enjoy the pleasant aroma that will fill your home!

 Ingredients: 2 carrots, 1 parsley root, 1 onion, 4 potatoes, 200 g smoked ham, 2 tablespoons oil, 4 tablespoons tomato paste, salt and pepper to taste, juice from hot peppers, thyme or parsley to taste.

 Tags:  vegetable soup potato soup