Start with the base: Melt the herb butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. This herb-infused butter adds a rich flavor that forms the backbone of the soup.
Sauté the aromatics: Add the chopped onions and minced garlic to the saucepan. Sauté until the onions are translucent, a crucial step in creating a deep flavor base.
Add the vegetables: Add the diced potatoes, chopped celery, sliced leeks, and chopped carrots to the pot. Stir well and cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld slightly and the vegetables to begin to soften.
Simmer the soup: Pour in the vegetable stock and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer the soup gently for about 20 to 25 minutes. During this time, the vegetables will become tender and fully infused with the flavors of the broth.
Season and serve: Toward the end of cooking, season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Stir in the freshly chopped parsley just before serving for a touch of freshness and color.
Serving Suggestions
Ladle the warm vegetable soup into bowls and enjoy on its own or with crusty bread for dipping. This soup is not only a comforting meal but also a great starter for a larger dinner. Its simplicity and depth of flavor make it a favorite for casual family meals and formal gatherings alike.
Why You’ll Love This Soup
There are so many reasons to fall in love with this hearty, homemade vegetable soup. It’s not just a meal; it’s a comforting hug in a bowl. Here are a few compelling reasons why this soup will become a staple in your kitchen:
Cooking Tips
Enhance Flavors Naturally: Sautéing onions and garlic before adding other vegetables helps release their natural sugars and enhances the flavor of the soup.
Use Fresh Herbs: If possible, use fresh herbs in the herb butter or add them at the end for a brighter flavor.
Consistency Adjustments: Depending on your preference for soup consistency, you can blend some of the soup to make it creamier without adding cream.
Season Properly: Always season with salt and pepper at the end of cooking to perfectly adjust the flavor once the vegetables have released their juices.
