Dive into the heart of Southern comfort with our Hearty Southern Vegetable Soup! This vibrant and nourishing dish is not just a meal; it's a warm hug in a bowl that brings the flavors of the South right to your kitchen. Packed with fresh vegetables and wholesome ingredients, this recipe is perfect for cozy evenings or when you need a boost of nutrition. With just a little prep and a simmer on the stove, you can create a delightful soup that serves eight, making it ideal for family gatherings or meal prep. Ready to uncover the secrets to this soul-satisfying soup? Let’s get cooking!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs
Cuisine: Southern
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 3 carrots, sliced
- 2 stalks celery, chopped
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup green beans, trimmed
- 1 cup corn
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare all vegetables by washing, peeling, and chopping them according to the ingredient list. Ensure uniform size for even cooking.
- Heat a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed soup pot over medium heat. Add a small amount of olive oil to coat the bottom of the pot.
- Sauté the chopped onions and minced garlic until they become translucent and fragrant, approximately 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
- Add sliced carrots, chopped celery, and diced bell pepper to the pot. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften and develop flavor.
- Pour in the canned diced tomatoes with their juice and vegetable broth. Stir to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
- Add thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to distribute the seasonings evenly throughout the soup base.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low and allow the soup to simmer, partially covered, for approximately 25-30 minutes.
- Add green beans and corn during the last 10 minutes of cooking to maintain their texture and vibrant color.
- Taste and adjust seasonings as needed, adding more salt and pepper to enhance the flavor profile.
- Remove from heat and let the soup rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld together.
- Ladle into warm bowls and serve hot, optionally garnishing with fresh herbs like parsley or a sprinkle of black pepper.
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time, chop all your vegetables in advance and store them in the refrigerator. This makes the cooking process smoother and quicker!
- Get Creative: Feel free to swap in your favorite seasonal vegetables or whatever you have on hand. Zucchini, spinach, or even sweet potatoes can add unique flavors and textures.
- Adjust the Thickness: If you prefer a thicker soup, blend a portion of it with an immersion blender after simmering. This will give you a creamy texture while still retaining some chunky vegetables.
- Enhance the Flavor: For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a teaspoon of hot sauce during cooking for a bit of heat.
- Make it a Meal: Serve the soup with crusty bread or cornbread on the side for a satisfying and hearty meal that everyone will love.
- Store Leftovers Wisely: This soup keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days, and it freezes beautifully. Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to airtight containers.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 95kcal
Carbohydrates: 18g
Protein: 3g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
