Are you craving a warm, comforting bowl of goodness on a chilly evening? Look no further! This hearty Vegetable Soup, brimming with fresh Irish ingredients, is the perfect healthy meal and quick dinner idea for busy weeknights. It’s a delicious dish, easy to make, and packed with flavour – the best recipe for homemade cooking you’ll find! This recipe is perfect for beginner cooks, but seasoned chefs will appreciate its versatility too. Let’s dive into the heart of Ireland, one spoonful at a time!
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)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth for a richer flavour)
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup chopped cabbage
- 1 cup chopped green beans
- 1 cup chopped broccoli florets
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp dried rosemary
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Step 1: 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.
Step 2: Add Aromatics and Potatoes
Add the leeks and garlic to the pot and cook for another 2 minutes, until fragrant. Stir in the diced potatoes.
Step 3: Simmer the Soup
Pour in the vegetable broth and diced tomatoes. Add the thyme and rosemary. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
Step 4: Add Remaining Vegetables
Stir in the cabbage, green beans, and broccoli. Continue to simmer for another 10-15 minutes, or until all the vegetables are tender-crisp. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve hot with crusty bread for dipping – the perfect comforting meal!
Cooking Tips for the Best Vegetable Soup:
- Don't overcook the vegetables: You want them tender-crisp, not mushy. Adjust the cooking time depending on the type and size of your vegetables.
- Use fresh herbs: Fresh herbs add a vibrant flavour that dried herbs can't match. If using fresh herbs, add them in the last 5 minutes of cooking.
- Adjust the seasoning: Taste the soup before serving and adjust the seasoning to your preference. You might want to add a dash of Worcestershire sauce or a squeeze of lemon juice for extra zing.
- Make it your own: Feel free to add other vegetables you enjoy, such as parsnips, turnips, or sweet potatoes.
Variations:
- Creamy Vegetable Soup: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk before serving for a richer, creamier texture.
- Spicy Vegetable Soup: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Vegetarian/Vegan Vegetable Soup: Ensure your vegetable broth is vegetarian/vegan-friendly.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the exact ingredients and quantities used, but a typical serving contains approximately:
- Calories: 200-250
- Protein: 5-7g
- Fat: 5-7g
- Carbohydrates: 30-35g
- Fiber: 6-8g
This delicious and nutritious Vegetable Soup is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and healthy meals. It’s a simple yet satisfying dish perfect for any occasion – enjoy!