There’s nothing quite as comforting as a big bowl of Hearty Vegetable Soup simmered to perfection on a chilly day. Brimming with a rainbow of fresh vegetables and aromatic spices, this vegan-friendly soup is both nourishing and satisfying. Whether you’re looking for weeknight dinner inspiration or a meal-prep superstar, the flavors and flexibility of Hearty Vegetable Soup make it a perennial favorite in any kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering your ingredients for Hearty Vegetable Soup couldn’t be simpler. Each component brings a unique character to the pot, whether it’s vibrant color, unmistakable crunch, or savory depth. Here’s what you’ll need and why you don’t want to skip a single one!
- Cabbage: This hearty base adds texture and mild sweetness, making the soup beautifully substantial.
- Onion: The classic aromatic, onions waft that gorgeous homey smell and build the flavor right from the start.
- Carrots: Their natural sweetness balances the spices and softens to perfection in the simmer.
- Celery: A must for a classic soup backbone, bringing crunch and subtle earthiness.
- Bell pepper (optional): Adding bell peppers offers extra sweetness and a pop of vibrant color—totally worth it if you have one handy.
- Olive oil: This gets everything going and helps meld the flavors as the veggies sauté.
- Garlic: A boost of savory aroma and bite that just can’t be skipped.
- Diced tomatoes: They bring tang and body, plus their juices build the rich, tomatoey broth.
- Vegetable broth (or chicken broth): The foundation of the soup—go with vegetable to keep it vegan, or use chicken broth for a classic twist.
- Turmeric: For a warm, golden color and subtle earthy flavor you’ll notice in every spoonful.
- Cumin: Adds a gentle smokiness and depth that makes everything taste “just right.”
- Black pepper: A simple, peppery bite that balances the sweetness of the veggies.
- Cayenne pepper (optional): If you love a spicy note, this is your moment to shine! Go easy or add more for a thrill.
- Salt: Brings all the flavors together—always taste and adjust to your liking.
- Fresh parsley or cilantro: A bright, fresh finish that elevates every bowl.
How to Make
Step 1: Chop Your Vegetables
Start by getting all your veggies ready. Chop the cabbage, onion, carrots, celery, and bell pepper (if you’re using it). It might feel like a lot at first, but these bite-sized pieces become meltingly tender and perfectly spoonable once cooked. Set everything aside so you can move smoothly from one step to the next.
Step 2: Sauté Garlic and Aromatics
Heat olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and let it sizzle for a minute or two. The aroma will fill your kitchen, promising something wonderful. This is where the flavor magic begins, so don’t rush this step!
Step 3: Add Base Vegetables
Next, toss in your chopped onion, carrots, celery, and bell pepper. Give them a good stir, coating everything in that fragrant garlicky oil. Let these veggies cook for about five to seven minutes, until they start softening and their natural sweetness emerges.
Step 4: Wilt the Cabbage
Add the chopped cabbage to your pot. As it cooks, the cabbage will reduce in volume and release its own sweet juices. Three to four minutes is all it takes for it to start wilting and mingling beautifully with the other ingredients.
Step 5: Build the Broth
Pour in the diced tomatoes—juices and all—then add the vegetable broth. Stir well, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom for extra flavor. At this point, you’ll see vibrant colors and smell the beginnings of something truly cozy.
Step 6: Spice It Up
Time to sprinkle in the turmeric, cumin, black pepper, cayenne (if using), and salt. These spices bring warmth and complexity. Stir everything thoroughly to ensure those flavors are well-distributed throughout the soup.
Step 7: Simmer to Perfection
Bring the soup to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Let it bubble away, uncovered, for twenty-five to thirty minutes. The vegetables will soften, the broth will take on the vivid gold of turmeric, and the entire kitchen is infused with pure comfort. If it thickens too much, just add a splash more broth or water to reach your ideal consistency.
Step 8: Taste and Adjust
Before serving, taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as you like—maybe a bit more salt, a dash of pepper, or an extra pinch of cayenne if you’re feeling bold. You’re in control here, making it just right for your tastes.
Step 9: Serve and Garnish
Ladle the Hearty Vegetable Soup into bowls. Finish each portion with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or cilantro. Serve piping hot, ideally with a slice of crusty bread or your favorite side to soak up every drop.
How to Serve
Garnishes
Don’t underestimate the power of a bright finish! A sprinkle of fresh parsley or cilantro as your garnish not only makes the Hearty Vegetable Soup look extra inviting but also adds a burst of freshness to every spoonful. For even more zing, try a squeeze of lemon juice or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a custom twist.
Side Dishes
This soup loves company. Serve it up alongside warm, crusty bread, a rustic roll, or even a simple green salad tossed with vinaigrette. Rice, quinoa, or cooked lentils can be added right into the bowl for heartier appetites—super satisfying and endlessly adaptable.
Creative Ways to Present
For dinner parties or cozy nights in, ladle the Hearty Vegetable Soup into mugs for a casual touch or bread bowls for a special treat. Swirl in a spoonful of vegan pesto or top with roasted seeds for extra crunch. Layering in grains or beans makes each bowl a fun little surprise—perfect for making leftovers feel fresh and new.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have extra Hearty Vegetable Soup, lucky you! Let it cool completely, then transfer to airtight containers. It will keep happily in the fridge for up to five days, and the flavors often deepen over time, making each bowl even tastier.
Freezing
This recipe is a meal-prepper’s dream: freeze extra soup in individual portions using freezer-safe containers or zip bags (just leave some space for expansion). It will stay good for up to three months—simply thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the soup gently on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. If using a microwave, cover the bowl with a vented lid and heat in one- to two-minute bursts, stirring in between. Add a splash of water or broth if needed to loosen the consistency.
FAQs
Can I add protein to the Hearty Vegetable Soup?
Absolutely! Stir in cooked beans, lentils, or diced chicken if you’re not keeping it vegan. They’ll soak up the delicious broth and make the soup even more satisfying.
What other vegetables can I use?
This soup is wonderfully customizable. Toss in diced potatoes, green beans, zucchini, or even a handful of frozen peas. It’s a great way to use up what’s in your fridge or change things up with the seasons.
How spicy is this soup?
The Hearty Vegetable Soup has just a gentle kick if you include the cayenne pepper, but you’re fully in the driver’s seat. Add more or less according to your tastes, or skip it altogether for a super mild version.
Can I make this soup oil-free?
Yes, you can sauté the veggies in a splash of broth or water instead of olive oil for an oil-free version. The soup will still have plenty of flavor from the spices and vegetables themselves.
How long does it take to make Hearty Vegetable Soup?
From chopping to serving, it usually takes about forty-five minutes. That includes prep time and simmering—quick enough for a cozy weeknight and relaxing enough for a weekend cooking session.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving comfort and color in every spoonful, you’ve got to give this Hearty Vegetable Soup a try. It’s cozy, endlessly adaptable, and destined to become a staple in your kitchen—enjoy every warming bite!
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Hearty Vegetable Soup Recipe
- Total Time: 45-50 minutes
- Yield: 6-8 servings
- Diet: Vegan
Description
This Hearty Vegetable Soup is a nourishing and flavorful dish made with a variety of fresh vegetables, aromatic spices, and a savory broth. Perfect for chilly days, it’s packed with goodness from cabbage, carrots, celery, and onions, along with optional spices like cayenne pepper for an extra kick. This comforting soup is vegan-friendly, customizable, and great for meal prep.
Ingredients
Cabbage:
1 medium head (about 6 cups chopped)
Onion:
1 large, chopped
Carrots:
3 medium, peeled and diced
Celery:
2 stalks, chopped
Bell Pepper:
1, diced (optional)
Olive Oil:
1 tablespoon
Garlic:
3 cloves, minced
Diced Tomatoes:
1 can (14.5 oz)
Vegetable Broth:
4 cups
Turmeric:
1 teaspoon
Cumin:
1 teaspoon
Black Pepper:
½ teaspoon
Cayenne Pepper:
½ teaspoon (optional)
Salt:
to taste
Fresh Parsley or Cilantro:
for garnish
Instructions
- Chop Vegetables: Start by chopping the cabbage, onion, carrots, celery, and bell pepper. Set aside.
- Sauté Garlic: Heat olive oil in a soup pot, sauté garlic until fragrant.
- Cook Vegetables: Add onion, carrots, celery, and bell pepper; cook until soft.
- Add Cabbage: Stir in cabbage until wilted.
- Combine Ingredients: Add tomatoes, broth, spices, and salt. Simmer.
- Simmer: Let the soup simmer for 25-30 minutes until vegetables are tender.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust salt, pepper, or cayenne.
- Serve: Garnish with parsley or cilantro and serve hot.
Notes
- For a heartier soup, add cooked chicken, beans, or lentils for extra protein.
- If you like a spicy kick, increase cayenne or add jalapeños.
- Experiment with different vegetables like zucchini or potatoes.
- Add herbs like thyme or bay leaves for more flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Simmer
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
