Campbell’s Vegetarian Vegetable Soup Recipe

Campbell’s Vegetarian Vegetable Soup is one of those classic comfort foods that can be enjoyed at any time of the year, whether you’re seeking something light yet satisfying or trying to boost your veggie intake in a deliciously easy way. This hearty, nutrient-packed dish is not just a bowl of warmth-it’s an easy go-to meal for those wanting something simple yet full of flavor. And the best part? You can make it at home, controlling every ingredient for a fresh, wholesome version of the beloved canned variety.

If you’ve ever found yourself on a chilly day craving something nourishing, or maybe you’re just looking for a wholesome lunch option, this recipe will be your new favorite. It’s packed with vegetables, brimming with flavors that balance sweetness, savory goodness, and a light touch of herbs. Whether you’re vegan, vegetarian, or just looking to eat more plant-based meals, this homemade version of Campbell’s Vegetarian Vegetable Soup is a game-changer.

Campbell’s Vegetarian Vegetable Soup Recipe

Let’s dive straight into this satisfying and nutritious dish! Making Campbell’s Vegetarian Vegetable Soup from scratch is easier than you might think. This recipe combines classic vegetables like carrots, potatoes, green beans, and corn in a savory broth, perfect for a wholesome meal.

Ingredients Needed

Before you begin, let’s gather everything you’ll need. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity, so you can keep it stocked in your kitchen without much effort. Here’s the list of ingredients for this homemade vegetarian version:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil (for sautéing)
• 1 medium onion, chopped (gives the soup a savory base)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced (adds depth of flavor)
• 3 medium carrots, peeled and sliced (sweet and hearty)
• 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed (adds creaminess)
• 1 cup fresh green beans, cut into 1-inch pieces (a burst of freshness)
• 1 cup corn kernels (for a touch of sweetness and crunch)
• 1 cup diced tomatoes (for acidity and color)
• 6 cups vegetable broth (the base of the soup, keep it rich and flavorful)
• 1 bay leaf (adds a subtle depth to the broth)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme (herbaceous and aromatic)
• 1 teaspoon dried basil (another layer of herbal flavor)
• Salt and pepper to taste (enhances all the flavors)

Cooking Instructions

The process is simple, and it’s pretty much like putting together a hearty vegetable stew, so let’s break it down step by step:

1. Sauté The Aromatics

   • Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes, or until softened and translucent. Then add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, making sure not to let it burn.

2. Add The Vegetables

   • Next, toss in the carrots, potatoes, green beans, and corn. Stir them around, letting them cook with the onions and garlic for about 5 minutes. This helps bring out the sweetness and flavors of the vegetables.

3. Add The Liquids

   • Pour in the vegetable broth and bring everything to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer. Add the diced tomatoes, bay leaf, thyme, and basil. Stir well and let the soup simmer gently for 25-30 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.

4. Season To Taste

   • Season with salt and pepper, adjusting the seasoning to your preference. Make sure to remove the bay leaf before serving.

5. Serve

   • Ladle the soup into bowls, and serve hot. You can enjoy it as-is, or with a side of crusty bread for a little extra indulgence.

Ingredient Insights

Each ingredient in this soup serves a purpose, both in flavor and nutrition. Let’s explore some of the key ingredients:

• Olive Oil: A healthy fat choice that serves as the base for sautéing. It also adds a richness to the soup that enhances all the flavors.
• Onion and Garlic: These two are the flavor foundations of many soups and dishes. Onions add a sweet, savory note, while garlic imparts a robust, aromatic depth.
• Carrots and Potatoes: Both add texture and substance to the soup. Carrots bring a natural sweetness, while potatoes add creaminess once cooked, helping to thicken the broth without making it too heavy.
• Green Beans and Corn: These veggies offer contrast in texture, bringing a bit of crunch and bite to the soup. Corn, in particular, adds a pop of sweetness that balances out the savory flavors.
• Herbs: Thyme and basil elevate the dish with their aromatic qualities, turning a simple vegetable soup into a more complex and satisfying meal. A bay leaf adds depth without being overpowering.

Expert Tips

To make sure your soup comes out perfectly every time, consider these expert tips:

• Don’t overcook the vegetables: To keep the soup vibrant and the vegetables tender but not mushy, keep an eye on the cooking time. Once the potatoes are fork-tender, it’s time to stop the cooking process.
• Use homemade broth: If you can, use homemade vegetable broth or a high-quality store-bought one. The flavor of the broth will define the base of your soup, so make sure it’s rich and well-seasoned.
• Adjust the seasoning: Since vegetable broths can vary in saltiness, be sure to taste the soup before adding too much salt. Freshly ground black pepper also makes a huge difference in adding depth to the flavor.
• Add a splash of vinegar: For a touch of brightness, a splash of apple cider vinegar or lemon juice at the end of cooking can help balance the soup’s flavors.

Recipe Variations

One of the best things about vegetable soup is how easily you can customize it. Here are some variations to make it your own:

• Add greens: Spinach, kale, or Swiss chard would all work great in this soup. Just stir them in towards the end of cooking for a bit of added nutrition and color.
• Use different veggies: Don’t feel limited to the vegetables listed. Try adding zucchini, parsnips, or even sweet potatoes for a slightly different flavor profile.
• Add protein: For a more filling meal, you can add some plant-based protein. Tofu cubes or cooked lentils can be a great addition.
• Spicy kick: If you like a bit of heat, consider adding some diced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes.
• Make it creamy: To make this a creamier soup, blend part of it using an immersion blender. This will give it a rich texture without having to add dairy.

Final Words

There’s something so special about a simple vegetable soup. It’s nourishing, hearty, and incredibly versatile, and when made from scratch, it’s a dish that offers both flavor and comfort. This recipe for Campbell’s Vegetarian Vegetable Soup is a perfect way to enjoy all the goodness of fresh vegetables, without sacrificing time or effort. Plus, it’s a perfect meal for any dietary preference, being both vegetarian and easily adaptable to be vegan or gluten-free.