Vegetable Soup Recipe

Introduction:

Vegetable Soup Recipe: Savoring each sip of warm and nourishing vegetable soup is a divine experience, especially on cold winter days. This recipe, enriched with a variety of vegetables and vegetable stock, not only ensures a healthy indulgence but also delivers a burst of flavors. Simple yet highly customizable, this soup invites your favorite tastes by incorporating selected veggies. While fresh vegetables are recommended for optimal results, canned alternatives can also be used.

Ingredients:

Vegetable Soup Recipe

2 tablespoons chopped Spring Onion (or regular onion)
2 teaspoons minced Garlic
1/3 cup chopped Carrots
1/3 cup chopped Green Cabbage
1/3 cup Sweet Corn Kernels
1/3 cup chopped French Beans
1/4 teaspoon Ground Black Pepper
1/2 tablespoon Vinegar
2 tablespoons Cornstarch (white corn flour)
1/2 tablespoon Butter or Oil
2½ cups Water or Vegetable Stock
Salt to taste

Directions:

Vegetable Soup Recipe

Step 1: Vegetable Preparation

Chop all the veggies (carrot, cabbage, French beans, onion, and garlic) into small pieces.

Step 2: Cornstarch Mixture

In a small bowl, add 2 tablespoons of cornstarch (corn flour).
Add 3 tablespoons of water and mix well.

Step 3: Cooking Process

Heat 1/2 tablespoon of oil or butter in a large, heavy-bottomed stockpot over medium flame. Add chopped onion and garlic.
Sauté for 1-2 minutes.

Step 4: Vegetable Sauté

Add carrots, cabbage, sweet corn kernels, French beans, and salt (only for veggies).
Stir and cook for 3-4 minutes.

Step 5: Liquid Addition

Add 2½ cups water or vegetable stock. Stir well and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, add salt (as required since salt is already added for veggies).
Add black pepper powder.

Step 6: Thickening the Soup

Incorporate the cornstarch-water mixture and stir continuously for a minute to prevent lump formation.
Cook until the mixture thickens and the raw smell of cornstarch dissipates, approximately 7-8 minutes.
Add vinegar and mix well.

Step 7: Finalizing and Serving

Taste the soup for seasonings and adjust if required. Turn off the flame.
Transfer the hot Vegetable Soup Recipe into individual serving bowls and serve.

Tips and Variations:

This recipe is highly flexible, allowing you to add or remove any vegetables according to your taste preferences. Zucchini, green bell pepper, green peas, cauliflower, or tomato can be excellent additions.

Adjust the cornstarch quantity for a thicker or lighter soup based on personal preference.

Taste: Mildly spicy and salted, the soup offers a plethora of fresh vegetable flavors with a subtle hint of butter.

Serving Ideas: Best enjoyed during cold winter evenings and mornings, this fresh vegetable soup makes for a delightful snack or a healthy breakfast. It’s versatile enough to be served as a starter for lunch or dinner, and its nutrient-rich, low-calorie profile makes it an ideal choice for those on a weight loss diet.

Conclusion:

In summary, this Vegetable Soup Recipe offers not only a delightful culinary experience but also a high degree of adaptability. Whether utilizing fresh or canned vegetables, adjusting the thickness, or exploring additional vegetable options, the flexibility of this recipe allows for customization based on individual taste preferences. Preparing this soup in advance provides a convenient and health-conscious option, allowing you to relish the warmth and nourishment it offers, especially during cold winter days.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Regarding Vegetable Soup:

Can Canned Vegetables be used in place of Fresh Ones in this Soup Recipe?

Certainly, canned vegetables can serve as a suitable alternative if needed. However, for an optimal culinary experience in terms of flavor and nutritional richness, using fresh vegetables is recommended.

How can I Achieve a Lighter Consistency in the Soup?

To achieve a lighter texture, consider reducing the amount of cornstarch by half. Adjust according to your desired thickness preference.

What Additional Vegetables are Suitable for Customizing the Soup?

The versatility of this recipe allows for creative customization. Feel at liberty to include or omit any vegetables according to your preference. Zucchini, green bell pepper, green peas, cauliflower, or tomatoes can be delightful additions.

Can the Soup be Prepared in Advance and Reheated Later?

Certainly, vegetable soup can be prepared ahead of time and reheated. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When reheating, a slight addition of water or vegetable stock may be necessary to achieve the desired consistency.

Is Vegetable Stock Essential, or can Water be used Alone?

While water can be used as a substitute, opting for vegetable stock enhances the overall flavor profile. Choosing vegetable stock contributes to a more indulgent and flavorful soup.