Soup That Brings Comfort

Nothing warms the soul like a steaming bowl of soup on a chilly day. This comforting and hearty soup combines fresh vegetables, savory herbs, and rich tomato broth to create a nourishing meal that feels like a warm hug from the inside out. Whether you want a simple lunch or a satisfying dinner, this soup brings wholesome flavors and cozy vibes to your table.

Rustic and easy to prepare, it’s perfect for anyone craving a light yet filling dish that’s packed with nutrients. Plus, it’s entirely vegan, making it a wonderful choice for plant-based eaters and anyone seeking a healthful comfort meal.

Ingredients

• Olive oil (2 tablespoons): Rich, fruity olive oil provides a healthy fat base, adding a delicate layer of flavor as vegetables sauté.
• Onion (1, chopped): Adds natural sweetness and depth to the soup, forming a flavorful foundation.
• Carrots (2, diced): Sweet and crunchy, carrots enhance texture and bring vibrant color.
• Celery stalks (2, diced): Offers a subtle savory note and supporting crunch for a balanced vegetable medley.
• Garlic cloves (3, minced): Infuses an aromatic, slightly pungent punch that elevates the broth.
• Vegetable broth (6 cups): The hearty liquid medium that simmers the ingredients and builds rich umami flavor.
• Diced tomatoes (1 can, 14.5 oz): Adds a tangy, acidic brightness and natural sweetness to the soup base.
• Green beans (1 cup, chopped): Contributes fresh, crisp texture along with nutritional benefits.
• Corn kernels (1 cup): Sweetness bursts that complement the savory broth and vegetables.
• Dried thyme (1 teaspoon): An earthy, perfumed herb that enhances the soup’s comforting aroma.
• Salt and pepper (to taste): Essential seasoning to bring all flavors into harmonious balance.

Instructions

Heat the olive oil

Place a large pot on medium heat and pour in the olive oil. Heating the oil first allows the vegetables to sauté evenly and helps release their flavors gently.

Sauté the onion, carrots, and celery

Add the chopped onion, diced carrots, and celery to the pot. Cook, stirring occasionally, until they become tender and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes. This step develops the soup’s foundational flavor base and softens the vegetables for better integration.

Add minced garlic

Stir in the garlic and cook for about 1 minute, just until fragrant. Garlic burns quickly, so keep an eye on it to prevent bitterness, allowing it to release its essential oils and deepen aroma.

Pour in broth and tomatoes

Carefully add the vegetable broth and canned diced tomatoes with their juices. Increase the heat slightly to bring the mixture to a boil. This liquid base melds the flavors and starts the soup’s cooking process.

Add green beans, corn, and thyme

Mix in the chopped green beans, corn kernels, and dried thyme. These ingredients add freshness, sweetness, and herbal notes, rounding out the texture and flavor complexity.

Season with salt and pepper

Add salt and freshly ground black pepper to your taste. Proper seasoning enhances all the profile components so the soup tastes balanced and satisfying.

Simmer the soup

Reduce the heat to low and let the soup gently simmer for 20 minutes. This slow cooking melds the flavors, softens vegetables further, and develops a harmonious broth.

Serve hot

Ladle the soup into bowls and serve immediately to enjoy its warming comfort and vibrant flavors at their best.

Storage Tips

This soup keeps well in the refrigerator for up to three days. Store it in an airtight container and reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave to maintain the texture and flavors.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this hearty soup with crusty whole-grain bread or a side salad for a satisfying meal. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or basil to add a burst of color and freshness.

FAQs

Can I freeze this soup?

Yes, this vegetable soup freezes well. Cool completely, store in airtight containers, and freeze for up to 3 months.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Absolutely! Use about 2 cups of diced fresh tomatoes and add them after the broth to maintain freshness.

Is this soup suitable for gluten-free diets?

Yes, this soup is naturally gluten-free, containing only vegetables and broth without any grains or gluten-containing additives.

How can I make this soup spicier?

Add red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper when seasoning for a warm, spicy kick.

Can I prepare this soup in a slow cooker?

Yes, sauté the vegetables first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours.

What other vegetables work well in this soup?

Potatoes, zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach can be added for variety and extra nutrition.

How do I know when the soup is done?

The soup is ready when all vegetables are tender and the flavors meld, usually after about 20 minutes of simmering.

Comforting Hearty Vegan Soup

This vegan soup offers a comforting blend of fresh vegetables and herbs simmered in a rich vegetable broth, perfect for a nourishing and flavorful meal any day of the week.

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Course Soup, vegan

Cuisine American

Servings 6 people

Calories 150 kcal

Equipment

• 1 large pot

Ingredients

  

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion chopped
• 2 carrots diced
• 2 celery stalks diced
• 3 cloves garlic minced
• 6 cups vegetable broth
• 1 can 14.5 oz diced tomatoes
• 1 cup green beans chopped
• 1 cup corn kernels
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

 

• Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
• Add chopped onion, diced carrots, and diced celery; cook until softened.
• Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.
• Pour in vegetable broth and diced tomatoes; bring to a boil.
• Add chopped green beans, corn kernels, dried thyme, salt, and pepper.
• Reduce heat and simmer the soup for 20 minutes.
• Serve the soup hot.

Notes

• Adjust seasoning according to taste.
• Feel free to add other vegetables.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.