Chunky Veg Soup Recipe

Soup has a timeless charm, doesn’t it? There’s something about a hearty, steaming bowl of soup that makes you feel comforted and nourished, especially when it’s packed with wholesome veggies and rich flavors. Whether you’re looking for something to warm you up on a cold day, boost your health, or simply indulge in a tasty meal, Chunky Veg Soup is the perfect dish to satisfy all these cravings. This isn’t your average run-of-the-mill soup; it’s thick, satisfying, and loaded with a variety of vegetables that not only bring color and flavor but also provide a bounty of nutrients.

In this guide, we’ll be diving deep into the Chunky Veg Soup recipe, giving you all the tools, tricks, and tips to make it perfect. From the essential ingredients to step-by-step cooking instructions, expert advice, and variations to suit different preferences, we’ve got you covered. By the end of this, you’ll have a delicious, healthy soup that can be enjoyed all week long!

Chunky Veg Soup Recipe

This Chunky Veg Soup is a vibrant, colorful medley of vegetables and herbs that come together to create a rich, satisfying meal. Unlike smooth, pureed soups, this version retains the texture of the ingredients, making each bite more filling and flavorful. It’s perfect for a light lunch, a hearty dinner, or as a side dish to your main meal. Here’s how to bring it all together:

Ingredients Needed

When making this chunky soup, the goal is to have a variety of textures and flavors that all blend harmoniously together. Here’s the list of ingredients you’ll need:

• Olive oil (for sautéing)
• Onion (1 large, diced) – adds sweetness and depth to the base of the soup
• Garlic (4-5 cloves, minced) – gives a fragrant kick and extra flavor
• Carrots (2 medium, peeled and chopped) – earthy and slightly sweet, they balance the flavors
• Celery (2-3 stalks, chopped) – brings a fresh, crisp element to the soup
• Potatoes (2 medium, peeled and cubed) – starchy and filling, they help thicken the soup
• Zucchini (1 large, chopped) – adds a tender, mild taste
• Bell pepper (1, diced) – choose any color, but red or yellow gives the soup a beautiful hue
• Tomatoes (2 large, diced) – juicy, tangy, and rich with umami
• Green beans (1 cup, chopped) – adds color and texture
• Spinach (2 cups, fresh) – packed with nutrients, this leafy green wilts into the soup
• Vegetable broth (4 cups) – the base of the soup, providing that savory flavor
• Bay leaves (2) – for an aromatic, earthy depth
• Thyme (1 tsp, dried or fresh) – a classic herb that complements the vegetables beautifully
• Salt and pepper (to taste) – essential for seasoning
• Lemon juice (1 tbsp) – adds a zesty brightness at the end
• Fresh parsley (for garnish) – a burst of color and freshness to finish

Cooking Instructions

Now, let’s dive into how to transform these fresh, wholesome ingredients into a flavorful soup. Follow these steps:

1. Sauté The Base

   In a large soup pot, heat about 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and garlic, cooking until they are soft and translucent-this should take around 5-7 minutes. The goal here is to develop a solid flavor base.

2. Add The Root Vegetables

   Stir in the carrots, celery, and potatoes, and cook for another 5 minutes. This helps to release their natural flavors and gives the soup some substance.

3. Toss In The Remaining Vegetables

   Add the zucchini, bell pepper, green beans, and tomatoes. Stir to combine all the ingredients, letting them cook for about 3-4 minutes. You’ll start to see the tomatoes soften, releasing their juices.

4. Pour In The Broth

   Pour in the vegetable broth, and add the bay leaves and thyme. Stir everything together and bring it to a simmer over medium-high heat. Let it cook for 20-25 minutes, or until all the vegetables are tender but still hold their shape.

5. Add The Spinach And Season

   When the vegetables are cooked, add the spinach and let it wilt into the soup. Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste, and add the lemon juice for that pop of freshness.

6. Simmer And Serve

   Let the soup simmer for another 5 minutes to meld the flavors. Once done, discard the bay leaves and ladle the soup into bowls. Garnish with fresh parsley, and serve hot.

Ingredient Insights

Each vegetable in this soup brings something unique to the table. Let’s take a deeper look at the benefits and flavors of the key ingredients:

• Carrots: Not only are they sweet and earthy, but they’re also packed with beta-carotene, fiber, and vitamin A, making them great for eye health.
• Potatoes: These starchy vegetables offer a hearty base, filling you up while providing potassium, vitamin C, and antioxidants.
• Zucchini: A low-calorie veggie that provides a subtle, mild flavor while adding vitamin A and a good amount of water for hydration.
• Tomatoes: Rich in lycopene, tomatoes are known for their antioxidant properties, supporting heart health and reducing inflammation.
• Spinach: Loaded with iron, fiber, and vitamin K, spinach is excellent for digestion, bone health, and overall vitality.
• Vegetable broth: The liquid base that infuses everything with flavor. Opting for a low-sodium broth can help keep the dish healthy and balanced.

Expert Tips

• Don’t overcook the vegetables: You want them to stay tender but not mushy. Keep an eye on them as they simmer.
• Customize the thickness: If you prefer a thicker soup, you can mash some of the potatoes or blend a portion of the soup using an immersion blender. This creates a creamier texture without using any cream.
• Use fresh herbs: Fresh thyme and parsley elevate the flavor profile, but if you only have dried herbs, those work too. Just be sure to adjust the quantity, as dried herbs are more potent.
• Make it ahead: Like most soups, this one actually tastes better the next day after the flavors have had time to meld. It’s a great make-ahead meal that you can store in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for longer.

Recipe Variations

While the basic Chunky Veg Soup is a classic, there’s plenty of room to get creative. Here are some variations you can try:

• Add legumes: Throw in some beans like chickpeas or kidney beans for an added protein boost.
• Go green: You can substitute or add other greens like kale, Swiss chard, or collard greens for a different twist.
• Spicy version: For some heat, add a diced jalapeño or sprinkle some red pepper flakes into the soup while it simmers.
• Add grains: Brown rice, quinoa, or farro can be stirred in to make the soup even heartier and more filling.
• Cheese topping: A dollop of shredded parmesan or crumbled feta just before serving adds a salty, creamy richness.

Final Words

Chunky Veg Soup is not only a delicious and nutritious meal but also one that can be easily customized to suit your tastes or dietary needs. Whether you’re looking to add more protein, make it spicy, or switch up the veggies, this soup is your canvas. The best part is that it’s a one-pot wonder, meaning cleanup is a breeze and you’re left with a bowl of wholesome goodness to enjoy!