Judy’s Hearty Vegetable Soup: A Cozy and Flavorful Winter Favorite
When the weather turns chilly or you find yourself needing a quick, satisfying meal on a busy workday, Judy’s Vegetable Soup is the perfect recipe to whip up. This hearty, flavorful soup is easy to make, with a short prep and cook time, and the ingredients are simple, affordable, and easy to find. Whether you’re new to cooking or just looking for something vegan and wholesome, this soup is a must-try. Originally found on soupsong.com, this recipe has been a favorite of mine for years, especially on cold winter nights when comfort food is a necessity.
Recipe Overview
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Vegetable Soup
- Servings: This recipe yields approximately 4-6 servings depending on portion size.
- Difficulty: Easy
- Cuisine: Vegan
Ingredients
This vegetable soup comes together with a simple list of ingredients. For maximum flavor, we combine vegetables with rice, beans, and seasonings that meld together to create a hearty soup. Here’s what you’ll need:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Onion | 1, chopped |
| Garlic | 1 clove, minced |
| Olive Oil | 1 tablespoon |
| Vegetable Broth | 2 cups |
| Chicken Broth | 2 cups |
| Diced Tomatoes | 1 can (14.5 oz) |
| Green Beans | 1 can (14.5 oz) |
| Corn | 1 can (15 oz) |
| Rice | 1/4 cup |
| Bay Leaf | 1 or 2 leaves |
| Dried Basil | 1 teaspoon |
| Dried Thyme | 1 teaspoon |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 303.8 |
| Total Fat | 5.9 g |
| Saturated Fat | 0.9 g |
| Cholesterol | 0 mg |
| Sodium | 172 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 58.7 g |
| Fiber | 11.4 g |
| Sugars | 17.1 g |
| Protein | 11 g |
Step-by-Step Instructions
This vegetable soup recipe is as straightforward as it gets. With just a few easy steps, you can have a warm, flavorful pot of soup ready in no time. Here’s how to prepare it:
-
Sauté the Aromatics:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing for about 2-3 minutes, or until they are fragrant and the onion has softened. -
Add the Broths and Vegetables:
Once the onion and garlic are ready, pour in both the vegetable broth and chicken broth. Stir in the diced tomatoes, green beans, and corn, making sure everything is well combined. -
Season the Soup:
Add the rice, bay leaf, dried basil, and dried thyme. Stir to incorporate the seasonings. Feel free to adjust the seasonings to taste, adding more basil or thyme if you prefer a more herbed flavor. -
Simmer and Cook the Rice:
Bring the soup to a quick boil, then cover the pot and reduce the heat to a simmer. Let it cook for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the rice to fully cook and the flavors to meld together. -
Optional Bean Variation:
While the recipe calls for green beans, feel free to experiment with other types of beans if you prefer. Kidney beans work particularly well in this soup, but any beans you enjoy will work just as fine. -
Serve and Enjoy:
Once the rice is tender and the soup has thickened, remove the pot from the heat. Serve the soup hot with a side of crusty bread or some buttered cornbread for an extra comforting touch.
Tips for Making the Perfect Soup
- Make it Your Own: While this recipe calls for green beans and corn, you can use any vegetables or beans you have on hand. Zucchini, peas, or carrots are great substitutions.
- For Extra Flavor: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat or a squeeze of lemon juice just before serving to brighten up the flavors.
- Storage: This soup keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for later use. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
Why You’ll Love This Soup
- Quick & Easy: Ready in just 40 minutes, this soup is a perfect choice for busy days when you need something wholesome and filling.
- Comforting & Hearty: With the combination of vegetables, rice, and beans, it’s not just light and refreshing—it’s also substantial enough to satisfy your hunger.
- Vegan & Inexpensive: It’s a budget-friendly option that’s completely vegan, so everyone can enjoy it. It’s the ideal recipe for anyone looking to eat plant-based meals without breaking the bank.
- Healthy & Nutritious: Packed with fiber from the vegetables and rice, this soup is a great way to get a dose of essential nutrients in one delicious bowl.
Conclusion
Judy’s Vegetable Soup is the ultimate easy and comforting dish to make on a chilly evening or after a long day. It’s full of healthy ingredients and can be tailored to your tastes and dietary preferences. With a few simple ingredients and less than 40 minutes of cooking time, you’ll have a warm and filling meal that’s perfect for the whole family. Enjoy this versatile, easy-to-make soup on its own or with some crusty bread for dipping—it’s sure to become a staple in your home as it has in mine!
For more comforting and easy recipes, visit Love With Recipes.
