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Grandma’s homemade vegetable soup is a timeless and nourishing dish that has been a favorite in households for generations. This hearty and comforting soup is a perfect way to enjoy the goodness of fresh vegetables.
In this article, we’ll delve into Grandma’s classic recipe, offer some useful tips to make it even better, and provide insights into its calorie information.
Grandma’s Vegetable Soup Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 4 celery stalks, sliced
- 2 potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 cup green beans, chopped
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 1 cup peas (fresh or frozen)
- 1 can (14-15 ounces) diced tomatoes
- 8 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 2 teaspoons dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups of pasta (e.g., small shells or elbow macaroni)
Instructions
- Sauté Onions and Garlic: In a large soup pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and minced garlic, and sauté until they become fragrant and translucent.
- Add Vegetables and Herbs: Add the carrots, celery, potatoes, green beans, corn, and peas to the pot. Stir in the dried thyme and dried rosemary. Sauté the vegetables for a few minutes to enhance their flavors.
- Pour in Broth and Tomatoes: Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth and add the diced tomatoes (with their juice). Bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Season and Simmer: Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for about 20-25 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
- Cook Pasta: In a separate pot, cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Combine Pasta and Soup: Add the cooked pasta to the soup, and let it simmer together for a few minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Serve and Enjoy: Ladle the hot vegetable soup into bowls and serve with a sprinkle of fresh parsley, if desired.
Tips for Making Grandma’s Vegetable Soup Even Better
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, use fresh vegetables for a more vibrant and delicious soup. However, frozen vegetables can be convenient and just as nutritious.
- Customize Your Vegetables: Grandma’s recipe can be adapted to your preferences. You can add other vegetables like zucchini, spinach, or cabbage.
- Homemade Broth: If time allows, consider making your own vegetable or chicken broth. It will elevate the flavor of the soup.
- Fresh Herbs: Use fresh thyme and rosemary if available. The fragrance and flavor of fresh herbs can elevate the soup.
- Extra Flavors: Enhance the taste with a dash of Worcestershire sauce, a squeeze of lemon juice, or a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat.
Calorie Information
The calorie content of Grandma’s homemade vegetable soup can vary depending on the portion size and specific ingredients used. Here’s an approximate calorie breakdown for a one-cup serving of this soup:
- Mixed vegetables: Approximately 40-60 calories
- Olive oil: Approximately 120-130 calories
- Pasta: Approximately 200-220 calories
- Broth: Approximately 10-15 calories
- Seasonings and herbs: Negligible calories
One cup of Grandma’s vegetable soup may contain around 350-425 calories. Keep in mind that these values can change based on ingredient variations and portion sizes.
How to Store
To store Grandma’s Homemade Vegetable Soup, follow these steps:
- Cool Down: Allow the soup to cool to room temperature before storing.
- Containers: Use airtight containers or resealable bags for storage.
- Portioning: Consider portioning the soup into smaller containers for easier reheating.
- Refrigeration: Store the soup in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the soup. Leave some space at the top of the container or bag to allow for expansion. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3-6 months.
- Thawing: Thaw frozen soup in the refrigerator overnight or use the defrost setting on your microwave.
- Reheating: Reheat the soup on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
Grandma’s homemade vegetable soup is a warm and comforting bowl of goodness that brings nourishment and satisfaction to the table. With its medley of fresh vegetables and aromatic herbs, it’s a recipe that has stood the test of time for its wholesome flavors and heartwarming qualities.
By following Grandma’s cherished method and incorporating your own twists, you can create a nourishing and delicious soup that embodies the warmth and love of home-cooked meals. Enjoy this classic soup for a hearty and soul-soothing meal.
