Are you craving a warm, comforting, and flavorful meal that’s also good for you? Look no further! This spicy vegetable soup recipe is the perfect solution for a quick and healthy dinner, or even a satisfying lunch. Packed with vibrant vegetables and a delightful kick of spice, this homemade soup is both easy to make and incredibly delicious. It's a fantastic example of easy recipes that don't compromise on taste, making it ideal for busy weeknights. This recipe is perfect for showcasing the best of homemade cooking.
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 (15 ounce) can chickpeas, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup chopped carrots
- 1 cup chopped zucchini
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (or more, to taste)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Lime wedges (for garnish)
Instructions:
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Sauté the aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.
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Add the vegetables: Add the bell peppers, carrots, and zucchini to the pot. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables begin to soften.
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Build the flavor: Stir in the diced tomatoes (undrained), vegetable broth, chickpeas, chili powder, cumin, and cayenne pepper. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
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Simmer to perfection: Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
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Serve and enjoy: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice.
Cooking Tips for the Best Spicy Vegetable Soup:
- Spice it up: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper according to your spice preference. Start with less and add more gradually until you reach your desired level of heat.
- Add protein: For a heartier soup, add cooked chicken, lentils, or quinoa.
- Customize your veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables you enjoy, such as corn, potatoes, or spinach. Add them during the last 10 minutes of simmering to prevent overcooking.
- Make it creamy: For a creamier soup, blend a portion of the soup with an immersion blender before serving.
Variations:
- Coconut Curry Vegetable Soup: Add 1 can (13.5 oz) of full-fat coconut milk and 1 tablespoon of curry powder for a delicious twist.
- Spicy Black Bean Soup: Substitute black beans for chickpeas and add a splash of lime juice for extra zing.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 250-300 Protein: 10-12g Fiber: 8-10g
This spicy vegetable soup recipe is a delicious and healthy addition to your weekly meal plan. It's a quick dinner idea that's both satisfying and nutritious, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights or a healthy lunch option. Enjoy this flavorful and easy-to-make recipe!