Vegetable soup with potatoes
Vegetable Soup with Potatoes: A Healthy and Comforting Treat
Vegetable soup with potatoes is a perfect choice for chilly days or when you crave a comforting dish, full of flavors and nutrients. This simple and healthy recipe is not only delicious but also a great way to enjoy fresh vegetables. Whether you savor it with family or prepare it for friends, vegetable soup with potatoes is a true feast for the senses.
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Servings: 6-8
Ingredients
- 6-7 large potatoes (approximately 1 kg)
- 1 large onion
- 1 carrot
- 1 red bell pepper
- 1 green bell pepper
- 1 large tomato
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley
- 1 bunch of lovage (optional, to taste)
- 2 liters of water
- 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1 tablespoon of tomato paste
- 200 ml of borscht (or to taste)
- Salt, pepper, and vegeta (to taste)
Step by Step Preparation
1. Preparing the Vegetables
Start by peeling the potatoes. After removing the skin, wash them well and cut them into cubes of about 1-2 cm. This will help them cook evenly and quickly.
Peel the onion, wash it, and chop it finely. Grate the carrot using a large grater to release its flavor. The red and green bell peppers should be chopped into small cubes, and the tomato, after peeling, should be diced.
2. Boiling the Soup
In a 6-7 liter pot, add water up to three-quarters full and bring it to a boil over medium heat. When the water starts to boil, add the potato cubes, chopped onion, grated carrot, bell peppers, and tomato. Let the vegetables boil over medium heat for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are almost tender.
3. Adding the Tomato Paste
In a plate, combine the tomato paste with olive oil and add a few tablespoons of the hot soup broth. Mix well to obtain a homogeneous emulsion, then pour this mixture into the pot. This step will enhance the flavor of the soup and add a savory note.
4. Seasoning the Soup
Add the borscht to taste, salt, pepper, and vegeta. Let the soup boil for another 5-10 minutes so that the flavors combine perfectly.
5. Finishing the Dish
When the soup is ready, turn off the heat and add the chopped parsley and lovage, if you chose to use it. Mix well to distribute the flavors.
Chef's Tip
If you want a heartier soup, you can add 1-2 tablespoons of cooked rice or pasta a few minutes before turning off the heat. This will make the soup more filling and turn it into a stand-alone main dish.
If you prefer a more intense flavor, you can sauté the tomato paste in a little oil before adding it to the soup, which will deepen the taste. Also, those who are not on a fasting diet can add a tablespoon of sour cream when serving for an extra creaminess.
Serving Suggestions
Vegetable soup with potatoes can be served alongside a slice of fresh bread or crunchy croutons. A green salad with tomatoes and cucumbers can be a perfect accompaniment to this dish.
If you want to give it an international twist, try adding spices like cumin or sweet paprika for an explosion of flavors. Each variation will transform the recipe into a unique culinary experience.
Nutritional Benefits
Vegetable soup with potatoes is not only tasty but also very healthy. Potatoes are a good source of complex carbohydrates, providing long-lasting energy. The added vegetables are rich in vitamins and minerals, contributing to a strong immune system. Additionally, this recipe is low in calories, with approximately 120-150 calories per serving, depending on the added ingredients.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use frozen vegetables?
Yes, frozen vegetables can be used, but make sure to add them at the end of the cooking process so they don’t become too soft.
2. How long can the soup be stored?
The soup can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. You can reheat it on the stove or in the microwave.
3. Can I add meat to the soup?
Absolutely! You can add chicken or pork, cut into small pieces, at the beginning of the cooking process for a richer flavor.
Conclusion
Vegetable soup with potatoes is a versatile, easy-to-make dish full of nutrients. Whether you prepare it for a family dinner or as a healthy lunch option, this recipe offers both comfort and satisfaction. Make it a part of your favorite recipes and don’t hesitate to add your own variations. Enjoy your meal!
Ingredients: 6-7 large potatoes, 1 large onion, 1 carrot, red beans, green beans, 1 tomato, fresh parsley, lovage (if you like it, if not, skip it), water, pepper, vegetable broth, 2 tablespoons of oil, 1 tablespoon of tomato paste.
