Vegetable soup

Vegetable soup - A burst of health in every spoonful

Vegetable soup is a classic dish, prized for its versatility and the richness of flavors and nutrients it brings. This recipe is ideal for those days when you feel the need for a warm, vitamin-packed bowl and will take you back to family dinners, where soup was always the star of the table. So simple yet so full of flavor, this soup can be easily adapted to suit personal taste and available ingredients.

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

Ingredients:

- 1 medium onion
- 1 bell pepper (any color)
- 2 carrots
- 1 celery root (or cel celeriac)
- 1 cup peas (fresh or frozen)
- 1 cup green beans (chopped)
- 2 medium potatoes
- 2 large tomatoes (or can of diced tomatoes)
- 1 liter water or vegetable soup
- 250 ml stock (or to taste)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- Fresh celery or dill leaves (for garnish)
- Oil for cooking

Preparation technique:

1. Preparing the vegetables: Start by peeling and chopping the onion finely. This will serve as a flavorful base for the soup. Next, cut the carrots into thin rounds, the peppers into small cubes and the potatoes into medium-sized cubes. The celery root can be diced or grated, depending on your preference.

2. Sauté the onion: In a large pot, add a little oil and sauté the onion over medium heat until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Here, you can add a pinch of salt to help the onions soften more quickly. It's essential not to brown it, just soften it.

3. Add the vegetables: Once the onions are done, add the carrots, bell pepper, celery root, peas, green beans and potatoes. Mix all ingredients well and let them cook together for 5 minutes to combine the flavors.

4. Boiling the soup: Add water or vegetable broth to the pot, bringing everything to a boil. Once it reaches the boiling point, reduce the heat and simmer, covered, for 20-25 minutes, until the vegetables are tender.

5. Adding the tomatoes and stock: Once the vegetables are cooked, add the diced tomatoes (fresh or canned), salt and pepper to taste, then the stock. Simmer for another 5 minutes to combine the flavors.

6. Finish: At the end, sprinkle fresh celery or dill leaves for extra freshness. Turn off the heat and let the soup rest for a few minutes before serving.

Useful tips for a perfect vegetable soup:

- Ingredients: Use fresh, seasonal vegetables for the best flavor. You can also experiment with other vegetables, such as zucchini, cauliflower or broccoli, depending on your preferences.
- Borsh: If you prefer a more sour taste, you can add the borscht earlier, depending on how sour you like your soup.
- Variations: You can add a tablespoon of tomato paste for a more intense flavor or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
- Serving: The vegetable soup goes great with a slice of fresh bread or with a side of breadcrumbs, and for extra flavor, add a dollop of sour cream when serving.

Nutritional benefits:
This vegetable soup is an excellent source of vitamins and minerals, rich in fiber, which aids digestion and maintains a healthy immune system. It is an easily digestible and low calorie option, making it perfect for a balanced diet.

Frequently asked questions:

- Can I add meat to this soup? Yes, you can add pre-cooked chicken or beef to enrich the soup. Add it with the vegetables.
- How long does the soup keep? Vegetable soup keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it, but it's best to eat it fresh to get all the nutrients.

Delicious combinations:
Vegetable broth goes great with a fresh green salad or a savory tart. A refreshing drink, such as a mint tea or fruit smoothie, can complement the meal perfectly.

This vegetable soup is not only delicious, but also a great way to eat a variety of vegetables. So grab your chef's hat and transform your kitchen into a place full of flavor and joy! Remember, cooking is an art and every recipe is an opportunity to express your creativity and bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones. Enjoy!