There’s just something about a warm bowl of soup that wraps you in comfort like a cozy blanket on a chilly day. This homemade soup is rich in flavors and packed with hearty ingredients, making it the perfect remedy for any time of year. I still remember those rainy afternoons spent in the kitchen with my family, the tantalizing aroma of garlic and herbs wafting through the air as we gathered around the table. Trust me, there’s nothing quite like the satisfaction of knowing you’ve created something delicious from scratch. This soup is not just food; it’s a hug in a bowl that brings loved ones together. So, grab your ingredients, and let’s dive into making this delightful dish!

Ingredients for Homemade Soup

• 2 tablespoons olive oil – for sautéing the vegetables
• 1 onion, diced – adds a sweet, aromatic base
• 2 carrots, diced – brings sweetness and color
• 2 celery stalks, diced – contributes to the classic mirepoix flavor
• 4 garlic cloves, minced – for that irresistible garlicky goodness
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme – a fragrant herb to elevate the flavor
• 1 teaspoon dried basil – adds a lovely depth with its earthy notes
• 6 cups vegetable broth – the heart of the soup; choose low-sodium for control over saltiness
• 2 cups diced tomatoes – for acidity and sweetness; can use canned or fresh
• 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut – adds crunch and freshness
• 1 cup corn kernels – for a bit of sweetness and texture
• 1 bay leaf – infuses a subtle depth of flavor
• Salt and pepper to taste – essential for seasoning, adjust according to preference
• Fresh parsley for garnish – for a pop of color and freshness before serving

How to Prepare the Soup

Now that we have our ingredients ready, it’s time to bring everything together into a delicious, comforting soup! Follow these steps, and you’ll have a hearty dish that warms the soul.

Heating the Base

Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. This is key because you want to sauté the vegetables without browning them. Once the oil is shimmering, add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté these beauties for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they’re soft and fragrant. This classic combination, known as mirepoix, creates a perfect foundation for our soup.

Adding Aromatics

Once your vegetables are softened and ready, it’s time to amp up the flavor! Stir in the minced garlic, dried thyme, and dried basil. Cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly. This will release those delicious aromas and ensure the herbs infuse their flavors into the base. Trust me, your kitchen will smell heavenly!

Combining Ingredients

Now, pour in the vegetable broth, and add the diced tomatoes, green beans, corn, and the bay leaf. Give everything a good stir to combine. It’s crucial to bring the soup to a boil at this stage; this helps meld all the flavors together. Once it reaches a boil, reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 30 minutes. This gentle simmering allows the ingredients to become tender and the flavors to deepen beautifully.

Final Seasoning

After the soup has simmered, it’s time for the all-important seasoning. Taste your creation and season with salt and pepper to your liking. Don’t skip this step, as it really brings everything to life! Finally, remember to remove the bay leaf before serving. It’s there for flavor, but we don’t want to bite into it! Now, garnish with fresh parsley for a lovely pop of color and freshness right before you dig in.

Tips for Success

To ensure your homemade soup turns out perfectly every time, here are some of my favorite tips that I swear by!

• Blending for Creaminess: If you’re craving a creamier texture, try blending a portion of the soup before serving. Just ladle out about 2 cups into a blender, blend until smooth, and then return it to the pot. This adds a velvety richness without needing heavy cream!
• Seasonal Veggies: Don’t hesitate to mix things up with seasonal vegetables! In the spring, toss in some asparagus or peas. In the fall, try butternut squash or sweet potatoes. Each season brings its own bounty, and experimenting will keep your soup exciting!
• Sautéing Herbs: For an extra flavor boost, consider sautéing fresh herbs in the olive oil before adding the vegetables. This releases their essential oils and enhances the overall taste of the soup.
• Cooking Time: Remember, the longer you let the soup simmer, the deeper the flavors will become. So if you have the time, let it bubble away on low heat for an hour or so. Just keep an eye on the liquid levels and add more broth if needed!
• Storage Tips: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Just remember that some vegetables may soften over time, so if you prefer a bit of crunch, consider adding fresh veggies when reheating.

With these tips in your back pocket, you’re all set to create a soup that’ll impress everyone at your table! Enjoy the process and let your creativity shine through.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to enjoying this delightful homemade soup, the right accompaniments can elevate the experience to a whole new level! I always love to serve my soup with a big hunk of crusty bread. There’s something so satisfying about tearing off a piece and dipping it right into the warm broth. It soaks up all that flavor and adds a wonderful texture contrast.

If you’re feeling a bit fancy, homemade croutons are a fantastic addition. Just cube some stale bread, toss it with olive oil, garlic powder, and a sprinkle of Italian herbs, then bake until golden and crispy. They add a delightful crunch that pairs perfectly with the smoothness of the soup.

And don’t forget about a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top! It melts into the soup, creating a savory richness that’s simply irresistible. You could also whip up a simple side salad with mixed greens and a tangy vinaigrette to balance the hearty flavors of the soup. It’s a meal that not only warms the soul but feels wholesome and complete.

So grab your favorite accompaniments, and get ready to enjoy a cozy meal that’s sure to bring everyone to the table!

Nutritional Information

Understanding the nutritional profile of your homemade soup can be incredibly helpful, especially if you’re mindful of your diet. Here’s an estimated breakdown for one serving (1 cup) of this delicious vegetable soup:

• Calories: 150
• Fat: 5g
• Saturated Fat: 0.5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4.5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Fiber: 6g
• Sugar: 5g
• Protein: 4g
• Sodium: 400mg
• Cholesterol: 0mg

Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use, especially the broth and any additional toppings or ingredients you might add. It’s always a good idea to adjust based on your personal preferences and dietary needs. Enjoy your wholesome bowl of goodness!

FAQ About Soup

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! One of the best things about this homemade soup is that it gets even better as it sits. You can make it a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. If you find it thickened too much, feel free to add a splash more vegetable broth to achieve your desired consistency!

What are some variations I can try?

The beauty of soup is its versatility! You can easily switch things up based on what you have on hand or what’s in season. For a heartier meal, add some cooked lentils or beans for added protein. You could also toss in leafy greens like spinach or kale towards the end of cooking for a pop of color and nutrition. If you’re craving something spicy, throw in some diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. The options are endless, so don’t hesitate to experiment!

How do I reheat leftovers?

Reheating your leftover soup is super simple! The best method is to warm it on the stovetop over medium heat. Just pour the soup into a pot and stir occasionally until it’s heated through. If you’re in a hurry, you can also use the microwave; just make sure to place it in a microwave-safe bowl and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between to ensure even warming. This way, you won’t end up with hot spots or a boiling mess!

Is this soup suitable for freezing?

You bet! This soup freezes beautifully, making it a great make-ahead meal. Just let it cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Be sure to leave some space for expansion as it freezes. It can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat as mentioned above. Just a heads up, some vegetables may lose their texture after freezing, so consider adding fresh veggies when reheating for that crisp bite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights.
• Hearty and filling, making it a satisfying meal for any time of day.
• Vegetarian-friendly, packed with wholesome ingredients that everyone will enjoy.
• Customizable with seasonal vegetables, allowing you to tailor it to your taste.
• Great for meal prep; tastes even better the next day!
• Comforting and nourishing, perfect for chilly days or when you need a little extra warmth.
• Simple ingredients that are easy to find, making it accessible for all home cooks.
• Deliciously aromatic, filling your kitchen with mouthwatering scents as it simmers.

Homemade Soup: 7 Tips for a Heartwarming Experience

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• Author: Julia marin
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

A classic homemade soup with rich flavors and hearty ingredients.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 6 cups vegetable broth
• 2 cups diced tomatoes
• 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut
• 1 cup corn kernels
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

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Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté until soft, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in garlic, thyme, and basil. Cook for an additional minute.
4. Pour in vegetable broth and add diced tomatoes, green beans, corn, and bay leaf.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes.
6. Season with salt and pepper.
7. Remove bay leaf before serving.
8. Garnish with fresh parsley.

Notes

• For a creamy texture, blend part of the soup and return it to the pot.
• Experiment with different vegetables based on seasonality.
• Serve with crusty bread or croutons for added texture.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Soup
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup
• Calories: 150
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 400mg
• Fat: 5g
• Saturated Fat: 0.5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4.5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Fiber: 6g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: soup, homemade soup, vegetable soup, hearty soup