Quick & Easy Vegan Soup

A friend asked me for an easy go-to recipe for a quick meal, so here you are! I like this because it’s versatile. Whatever vegetables or herbs you have on hand you can throw in, and if you don’t quite like something you can leave it out or change the amount of it next time.

I keep on hand a wee jar of Better Than Boulion. I get the vegan one; you can also get beef or chicken. I also keep on hand a wee jar of dried onion bits. My husband is very fussy about onion; he likes the flavour but not the texture, so adding a tablespoon of dried onion bits to something works for us.

I also usually have some carrots and celery and potatoes. So I start with whatever vegetable needs to be cooked the longest, usually chopped onions if I’m using fresh ones, and celery. I saute them in a spoonful of olive oil in the bottom of the pot, starting on high till they sizzle and then turning down the heat and waiting patiently till they are translucent and soft.

Meanwhile I peel and chop the carrots and potatoes or whatever other root vegetables I have. Maybe a parsnip or turnip or yam. Small yellow potatoes work well, chopped bite-size, because they stay firm. Russets tend to disintegrate if boiled long, so if using them throw them in last.

The trick is to add the vegetables that need the longest cooking time first (usually carrot or maybe beet because they are firm). Add water according to the amount of vegetables you are using and how much broth you want. Here is where you throw in some dried onion if you haven’t used fresh and any herbs. Parsley is always good in soup, either dried or fresh. Oregano if you want a stronger flavour. Maybe thyme or rosemary… Experiment and see what you like. Herbs fight viruses! And so do hot fluids.

Continue adding your vegetables and cook a few minutes to let the flavours blend. You might want to throw in some frozen green beans or a bit of leftover corn. Now taste-test and add boullion, salt and pepper a bit at a time till it’s just right! Cook a little longer to let the flavours blend more. Taste-test a chunk of vegetable to see if it’s done.

A crusty bun or grilled cheese san is nice on the side. If not, your tummy will surely beg you for a second bowl!