There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of homemade creamy vegetable soup to soothe the soul and nourish the body. This delightful soup is packed with a variety of fresh vegetables and seasoned to perfection, making it a comforting meal for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a hearty lunch, a light dinner, or a cozy dish on a chilly day, this creamy vegetable soup is sure to hit the spot. Follow this simple recipe to create a delicious and nutritious soup that your family and friends will love.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ cup onions, chopped
- ½ cup celery, chopped
- 1 cup carrots, chopped
- 1 tablespoon garlic, minced
- 1 cup green beans, chopped
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 cup corn kernels
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 4 cups whole milk
- 1 teaspoon salt (start with this amount and then taste and adjust)
- ½ teaspoon ground pepper
Instructions
Prepare the Vegetables
- Chop and Slice: Begin by preparing all the vegetables. Chop the onions, celery, carrots, green beans, and broccoli into bite-sized pieces. Slice the mushrooms and mince the garlic. Having all the vegetables prepped and ready will make the cooking process smoother and more efficient.
Sauté the Vegetables
- Heat Butter and Oil: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the butter and olive oil over medium heat until the butter is melted and the oil is shimmering.
- Sauté Onions and Celery: Add the chopped onions and celery to the pot. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until they are softened and translucent.
- Add Carrots and Garlic: Stir in the chopped carrots and minced garlic. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the garlic to become fragrant and the carrots to begin softening.
- Add Remaining Vegetables: Add the green beans, mushrooms, broccoli florets, and corn kernels to the pot. Stir everything together and cook for about 5 minutes, letting the vegetables start to tenderize.
Season and Thicken
- Season: Sprinkle the dried thyme and oregano over the vegetables. Stir to combine, ensuring that the herbs are evenly distributed.
- Incorporate Flour: Dust the vegetables with the all-purpose flour. Stir well to coat the vegetables with the flour.
Create the Creamy Base
- Add Milk: Slowly pour in the whole milk, stirring continuously to prevent lumps from forming. Turn up the heat to medium-high and allow the mixture to reach a soft simmer.
- Simmer: Once the soup begins to simmer, reduce the heat to medium-low. Continue to cook, stirring occasionally, until the soup has thickened and the vegetables are tender, about 15-20 minutes.
- Season to Taste: Add the salt and ground pepper. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed to suit your preference.
Conclusion
This delectable homemade creamy vegetable soup offers a comforting and wholesome meal suitable for all seasons. It’s crafted with a blend of fresh vegetables, aromatic herbs, and a lush, creamy foundation, delivering a fulfilling and tasty experience. Pair it with some crusty bread or a light salad for a well-rounded meal. Ideal for a family meal or a snug evening at home, this creamy vegetable soup is bound to be a cherished addition to your culinary repertoire. Relish the cozy comfort and rich flavors of this wonderful soup, and enjoy your cooking adventure!