Hearty Winter Soup
A delightful medley of fresh vegetables, savory broth, and optional cooked meats, this hearty winter soup warms the soul and delivers a comforting balance of flavor and nutrition.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 1 whole onion, chopped
- 2 whole carrots, diced
- 2 whole celery stalks, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups of your choice vegetables (e.g., potatoes, green beans, or spinach) Feel free to swap out based on preference or season.
Broth and Canned Ingredients
- 6 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 can diced tomatoes
Meat (Optional)
- 1-2 cups cooked meat (optional, like chicken or sausage) Can be omitted for a vegetarian option.
Seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Herbs (e.g., thyme, bay leaf, or parsley) for a fragrant finish
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large pot, heat a drizzle of oil over medium heat.
- Sauté the chopped onion, diced carrots, and celery until they are tender, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Cooking
- Pour in the broth and stir in the diced tomatoes, your chosen vegetables, and cooked meat if you’re using it.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 20-30 minutes or until all vegetables are tender.
- Season with salt, pepper, and your selected herbs before serving.
Notes
Best paired with crusty bread or a hearty salad. Garnish with fresh herbs or a drizzle of olive oil. For storage, let the soup cool completely and store in an airtight container. It lasts 3-4 days in the refrigerator or can be frozen for up to three months.