Vegetable Clear Soup with Lemon Grass Recipe
Introduction
The Vegetable Clear Soup with Lemon Grass is a refreshing, aromatic, and wholesome dish that brings together the vibrant goodness of fresh vegetables and the tantalizing flavors of lemon grass. Perfect for any season, this soup offers a balance of lightness and nutrition, making it a wonderful choice for a weeknight dinner or as a starter to a meal. Its fresh ingredients, including basil leaves and a touch of lemon juice, make it both soothing and invigorating. Ideal for vegetarians, this recipe is also easy to prepare and will surely please children and adults alike. Serve it with Spicy Sichuan Vegetarian Noodles for a complete Asian-inspired meal, followed by a delightful Toffee Banana for dessert.
Ingredients
Below is a detailed table of ingredients required for this delectable soup:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Broccoli (florets) | 200 grams |
| Baby corn (halved and sliced) | 5 pieces |
| Carrots (Gajjar, cut into thin wedges) | 2 Carrots |
| Red Bell Pepper (Capsicum, sliced into thin wedges) | 1 piece |
| Lemon Grass (sliced) | 2 stalks |
| Lemon Juice | 2 tablespoons |
| Basil Leaves | 5 leaves |
| Sugar | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | To taste |
| Black Pepper (crushed) | To taste |
Preparation Time
- Total Preparation Time: 30 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 4-6
Allergen Information
This recipe is allergen-friendly as it contains no gluten, dairy, nuts, or soy. It is suitable for most dietary needs, including those with allergies to common allergens. However, it’s always advisable to check the ingredients if you have specific sensitivities to certain vegetables or seasonings.
Dietary Preferences
- Dietary Type: Vegetarian
- Suitable for: Vegan (if no honey is used), Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free
- Not suitable for: Nut-free (contains no nuts)
Instructions
Step 1: Preparing the Lemon Grass Stock
- Begin by adding 4-5 cups of water into a saucepan.
- Add the lemon grass stalks to the water.
- Turn on the heat to medium-high and bring the water to a boil.
- Let it boil for 5 minutes to allow the lemon grass to release its flavors. The water should turn a light green color.
- Once the flavor has infused, discard the lemon grass stalks but keep the lemon grass-flavored water in the pan.
Step 2: Cooking the Vegetables
- Add the broccoli florets, baby corn slices, carrot wedges, and red bell pepper slices into the lemon grass water.
- Let the vegetables boil for a few minutes until they become slightly tender but still retain their crunch and color.
Step 3: Seasoning the Soup
- Turn off the heat.
- Add the lemon juice, sugar, salt, and crushed black pepper into the soup.
- Stir well to combine the seasonings and adjust according to your taste. You can add a bit more lemon juice if the lime used in the recipe is not sour enough for your liking.
- Toss in the basil leaves for an extra touch of freshness.
Step 4: Serving
- Your Vegetable Clear Soup with Lemon Grass is now ready to be served! Ladle the soup into bowls and enjoy its light, flavorful, and aromatic taste.
- This soup pairs beautifully with Spicy Sichuan Vegetarian Noodles for a complete meal, and for dessert, try the Toffee Banana (Classic Chinese Dessert) for a sweet finish.
Optional: Spice it up
For an added zing, you can spice up the soup with a little Tobasco sauce or chili vinegar for those who enjoy a bit of heat.
Tips & Advice
- Adjust the Vegetables: You can customize this soup by adding or substituting vegetables based on what’s in season or your personal preferences. Zucchini, mushrooms, or snow peas work wonderfully in this recipe.
- Herb Variations: If basil is unavailable, you can use cilantro or mint to impart a different flavor profile.
- Vegan Version: For a vegan-friendly version, ensure that no non-vegan ingredients, such as butter or honey, are used.
- Leftovers: This soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days, making it a great option for meal prep.
Conclusion
The Vegetable Clear Soup with Lemon Grass is a perfect balance of light, fresh, and comforting flavors, offering a delicious introduction to any meal. It’s quick and simple to prepare, making it an excellent option for busy weekdays or when you want a nourishing starter. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a quiet night in, this soup offers a versatile and satisfying experience. Plus, it’s a great way to ensure your meals are both healthy and full of flavor. Enjoy the fresh, vibrant taste of this delightful soup!
