“This soup is like medicine for my stomach! I eat it day and night. It’s healthy, delicious, and packed with nutrients!”
There’s nothing more comforting than a warm bowl of homemade vegetable soup. This recipe isn’t just food; it’s nourishment for your body and soul. Packed with fresh vegetables and simple seasonings, it’s the perfect dish for when you need a healthy reset or want to soothe your stomach. Whether you’re battling an upset tummy, craving something light, or just looking for a wholesome meal, this soup is your go-to solution.
Why This Soup Works
Nutrient-Rich: This soup is loaded with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants from fresh vegetables, making it a powerful remedy for digestion and overall health.
Low-Calorie & Filling: Thanks to the fiber from the vegetables, this soup is satisfying without being heavy.
Customizable: You can easily adapt the ingredients to your preferences or what’s in your fridge.
Anti-Inflammatory: With garlic, leeks, and optional chili peppers, this soup has ingredients known to reduce inflammation and promote healing.
Ingredients
For the Soup Base:
1 Onion, Chopped – Adds depth and sweetness to the flavor.
Olive Oil (2 Tablespoons) – For sautéing and enriching the soup.
2 Leeks, Chopped – Gentle on the stomach and adds a mild onion-like flavor.
2 Stalks of Celery, Chopped – Enhances the soup’s savory profile.
1 Carrot, Diced – Provides natural sweetness and nutrients.
1 Red Pepper, Diced – Adds a hint of sweetness and vibrant color.
1 Zucchini, Diced – Lightens the soup with its soft texture.
2 Potatoes, Diced – Makes the soup heartier and more satisfying.
2 Garlic Cloves, Minced – Boosts flavor and promotes healing.
1 Chili Pepper, Minced (Optional) – For a touch of heat and digestive support.
For the Broth:
6 Cups Vegetable Broth or Water – The foundation of the soup; vegetable broth adds extra flavor.
1 Teaspoon Salt – To enhance all the natural flavors.
½ Teaspoon Black Pepper – For a subtle kick.
1 Teaspoon Paprika (Optional) – Adds warmth and depth.
½ Teaspoon Turmeric Powder (Optional) – Anti-inflammatory and adds a golden hue.
Fresh Parsley (Chopped, for Garnish) – Brings brightness to the finished soup.
How to Make Healing Vegetable Soup
Sauté the Vegetables
Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
Add the onion, leeks, and celery, cooking for 3-5 minutes until softened and fragrant.
Stir in the garlic and optional chili pepper, cooking for another minute.
Add the Vegetables
Toss in the carrots, red pepper, zucchini, and potatoes. Stir to combine the vegetables and coat them in the flavors of the onion and garlic mixture.
Pour in the Broth
Add the vegetable broth or water to the pot. Stir in the salt, black pepper, and any optional spices like paprika or turmeric.
Simmer Until Tender
Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender when pierced with a fork.
Blend (Optional)
For a smooth, creamy soup, use an immersion blender to partially or fully puree the mixture. If you prefer a chunkier soup, skip this step.
Garnish and Serve
Ladle the soup into bowls and sprinkle with fresh parsley for a burst of flavor and color. Serve warm and enjoy!
Tips for Success
Use Fresh Ingredients: The fresher your vegetables, the better the soup will taste.
Balance the Flavor: Taste the soup as it simmers and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, or a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.
Customize It: Add other vegetables like spinach, kale, or mushrooms to suit your preferences.
Make It Creamy: For added richness, stir in a splash of coconut milk or a dollop of Greek yogurt before serving.
Health Benefits of This Vegetable Soup
Promotes Digestion: Ingredients like leeks, celery, and garlic are known to support gut health.
Boosts Immunity: With a medley of vegetables and optional turmeric, this soup is packed with immune-boosting nutrients.
Anti-Inflammatory: Garlic, chili pepper, and turmeric help fight inflammation, soothing your stomach and body.
Hydration: The broth keeps you hydrated while delivering essential minerals.
Serving Suggestions
Light Meal: Serve with a slice of crusty whole-grain bread for a simple and wholesome lunch or dinner.
Appetizer: Offer smaller portions as a starter before a main course.
Comfort Food: Pair with crackers or a side of garlic toast for a cozy meal.
Storage and Reheating
Refrigerator: Store leftover soup in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Freeze individual portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through.
Why You Should Try This Recipe
This Healing Vegetable Soup isn’t just a meal; it’s a remedy for the body and soul. Packed with nutrient-dense ingredients, it’s the perfect choice when you’re feeling under the weather, need a digestive reset, or simply want a healthy, comforting dish. The best part? It’s easy to make, versatile, and absolutely delicious!
Enjoy this soup day and night, and let its simple, healing ingredients work their magic.