Healing Vegetable Soup

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Healing Vegetable Soup

This vegetable soup is like medicine for my stomach! I eat it day and night because it’s packed with nutrients, easy to digest, and incredibly comforting. Whether you’re looking for a gut-friendly meal, an immune-boosting dish, or just a cozy bowl of soup, this recipe is perfect.

Ingredients:

For the Soup Base:

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (or avocado oil for extra nutrients)
  • 1 onion, finely chopped (adds depth of flavor)
  • 2 leeks, chopped (white and light green parts only, for a mild onion flavor)
  • 2 stalks of celery, diced (adds crunch and subtle saltiness)
  • 1 large carrot, diced (for sweetness and vitamin A)
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced (rich in vitamin C and antioxidants)
  • 1 zucchini, diced (for texture and mild flavor)
  • 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced (adds heartiness, but can be skipped for low-carb)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced (for immune-boosting benefits)
  • 1 small chili pepper, minced (optional, adds warmth and helps digestion)

For Seasoning & Broth:

  • 1 teaspoon turmeric powder (anti-inflammatory & gut-friendly)
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (adds a smoky depth)
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano or thyme (boosts aroma)
  • 6 cups vegetable broth (or water + 2 bouillon cubes)
  • 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes (or 2 fresh tomatoes, chopped)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

For Additional Nutrition:

  • 1 cup cabbage, thinly sliced (fiber-rich, great for digestion)
  • 1 cup spinach or kale, chopped (boosts vitamins and minerals)
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice (balances flavors and aids digestion)
  • Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (for garnish and freshness)

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

  • Wash, peel, and chop all vegetables.
  • If using fresh tomatoes, dice them finely.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

  • Heat olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat.
  • Add chopped onion, leeks, and celery and sauté for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until they soften.
  • Stir in minced garlic and chili pepper, cooking for 1 more minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Add the Vegetables

  • Add carrots, red bell pepper, zucchini, and potatoes.
  • Sprinkle in turmeric, smoked paprika, and oregano/thyme.
  • Stir well to coat the vegetables with the seasonings.

Step 4: Add the Broth & Simmer

  • Pour in vegetable broth and add diced tomatoes.
  • Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low.
  • Cover and simmer for 20–25 minutes, until the potatoes and carrots are tender.

Step 5: Add Final Ingredients

  • Stir in cabbage and let it cook for 5 more minutes.
  • Add spinach or kale and stir until wilted.
  • Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper.

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy

  • Stir in lemon juice for a bright, fresh finish.
  • Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro.
  • Serve with whole-grain bread, quinoa, or brown rice for a filling meal.

Storage & Reheating:

  • Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
  • Freezing: Let soup cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 3 months.
  • Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over medium heat or microwave in 1-minute intervals until hot.

Nutritional Benefits:

This soup is packed with:
✅ Fiber: Promotes digestion and gut health.
✅ Vitamins A & C: Strengthens the immune system.
✅ Anti-inflammatory properties: Turmeric, garlic, and leeks help reduce inflammation.
✅ Low-calorie & nutrient-dense: Perfect for weight management.

Flavor Variations & Add-Ons:

  • For extra protein: Add cooked lentils, chickpeas, shredded chicken, or tofu.
  • For gut health: Stir in apple cider vinegar at the end for probiotics.
  • For a creamy texture: Blend half the soup for a thicker consistency.
  • For more spice: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes.

Why You’ll Love This Soup:

❤️ Easy to make – Just chop, simmer, and enjoy!
💚 Naturally vegan & gluten-free – Fits various diets.
🔥 Perfect for cold weather – A warm, soothing meal.
🩺 Healing & detoxifying – Soothes digestion and boosts the immune system.

Final Thoughts:

This soup is a staple in my kitchen because it’s delicious, healing, and super versatile. You can enjoy it on its own, pair it with a protein, or even turn it into a stew by adding grains.

Let me know if you’d like any adjustments or extra ingredients!

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