Are you ready for a heartwarming journey back in time? Forget complicated recipes and fussy techniques; today, we're diving into the comforting world of vintage soup recipe mugs. These aren't just ordinary mugs; they're little vessels of nostalgia, each one promising a delicious, easy-to-make soup perfect for a cozy night in. Imagine the steam rising, the aroma filling your kitchen—pure comfort food bliss! This recipe is perfect for quick dinner ideas, healthy meals, and homemade cooking at its finest. It's a delicious dish everyone will love.
Ingredients: (Serves 2)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth for a richer flavor)
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup green lentils, rinsed
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Crusty bread (optional, for serving)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
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Sauté the Vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This step builds a delicious base for your soup, unlocking the flavors of the vegetables.
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Add the Remaining Ingredients: Pour in the vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, lentils, thyme, and oregano. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until the lentils are tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
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Season and Serve: Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Ladle the soup into your favorite vintage mugs (or any mug will do!). Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately with crusty bread, if desired. This hearty soup is a perfect example of easy recipes done right!
Cooking Tips for the Best Vintage Soup:
- For a smoother soup: Blend a portion of the soup with an immersion blender before serving for a creamier texture.
- Add some spice: A pinch of red pepper flakes adds a nice kick. Feel free to experiment with different spices to find your perfect blend.
- Make it your own: This recipe is incredibly versatile. Feel free to add other vegetables like potatoes, zucchini, or spinach. You can also use different types of beans instead of lentils.
- Prep ahead: You can prepare the vegetables and measure out the spices ahead of time to make weeknight cooking a breeze.
Variations on the Theme:
- Creamy Tomato Lentil Soup: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk at the end for a richer, creamier version.
- Spicy Sausage Soup: Brown some Italian sausage before adding the vegetables for a heartier, more flavorful soup.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: 15-20g
- Fiber: 10-15g
This recipe is a testament to the enduring appeal of simple, delicious food. It’s a fantastic example of how easy recipes can be both healthy and satisfying. These vintage soup recipe mugs are not just about the food; it's about the experience, the memories, and the pure joy of homemade cooking. Enjoy!