Are you craving a warm, comforting bowl of goodness? Look no further! This Irish vegetable soup recipe is the perfect blend of delicious and healthy, making it a fantastic addition to your easy recipes collection. It's a quick dinner idea that's surprisingly simple to whip up, even for beginner cooks. This homemade cooking classic is packed with flavour and nutrients, making it one of the best recipes for a satisfying and wholesome meal.
Ingredients:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 leek, sliced (white and light green parts only)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth for a richer flavor)
- 1 cup chopped cabbage
- 1 cup chopped green beans
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp dried parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1/2 cup pearl barley (add with potatoes) for a heartier soup
- Optional garnish: Fresh parsley, a dollop of sour cream or yogurt
Instructions:
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Sauté the vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
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Add aromatics: Stir in the leek and garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Build the soup: Add the potatoes, vegetable broth, cabbage, green beans, diced tomatoes, thyme, and parsley to the pot. Season with salt and pepper. If using barley, add it now.
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Simmer to perfection: Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes and vegetables are tender.
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Blend (optional): For a smoother soup, use an immersion blender to partially or fully blend the soup to your desired consistency.
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Serve and enjoy: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley, a dollop of sour cream or yogurt, if desired.
Tips for the Best Irish Vegetable Soup:
- Fresh is best: Using fresh vegetables will give your soup a brighter, more vibrant flavor.
- Don't overcook: Overcooked vegetables will become mushy. Aim for tender-crisp vegetables.
- Adjust seasonings: Taste the soup before serving and adjust the seasoning to your preference. You might want to add a pinch of sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
- Make it ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day! Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers for lunch or dinner.
Variations:
- Add protein: Include cooked lentils, chickpeas, or shredded chicken for added protein.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Creamy version: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk at the end for a richer, creamier texture.
- Root vegetable boost: Add diced parsnips, turnips, or sweet potatoes for extra flavor and nutrients.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate, without optional additions):
This information is an estimate and will vary based on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 150-200
- Protein: 5-7g
- Fat: 5-7g
- Carbohydrates: 25-30g
- Fiber: 5-7g
This hearty and healthy Irish vegetable soup is a delicious and satisfying meal perfect for any occasion. It's a fantastic example of delicious dishes you can easily make at home. Enjoy this quick and easy recipe!