Description

Warm, comforting, and packed with healing ingredients, Grandma’s Healing Fennel Soup is the perfect remedy for chilly days or when you need a health boost. This nourishing soup is loaded with fennel, leeks, garlic, and thyme, making it a natural immune booster. With a rich, flavorful broth, tender vegetables, and wholesome rice, it’s the ultimate homemade comfort food that has been cherished for generations.

Ingredients

Scale

2 carrots – Adds natural sweetness and a golden color.
3 celery stalks – Provides a mild, savory crunch.
½ clove garlic – Boosts immunity with antibacterial properties.
2 leeks – Infuses the broth with a mild, onion-like flavor.
1 onion – Creates a flavorful base for the soup.
1 whole clove – Adds warmth and depth of flavor.
Fresh parsley – Brightens the soup with a refreshing herbal taste.
2 bay leaves – Enhances the broth with a subtle earthiness.
1 teaspoon thyme – Adds a warm, aromatic note.
6 cups water – Forms the nourishing base of the soup.
1 teaspoon salt (or to taste) – Enhances the natural flavors.
½ teaspoon black peppercorns – Adds a gentle spice.
2 potatoes (diced) – Provides a creamy, hearty texture.
1 cup rice – Thickens the soup and adds substance.
2 peppers (chopped) – Brings a pop of color and mild sweetness.
1 fennel bulb (sliced) – The star ingredient with a delicate licorice-like flavor.
2 tablespoons olive oil – Adds richness and depth.
1 red onion – Provides a slightly sweeter taste than yellow onions.

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Instructions

Prepare the Vegetables
- Wash, peel, and slice the carrots, celery, fennel, leeks, onions, and peppers.
- Dice the potatoes into small cubes.
- Mince the garlic finely.
Sauté the Aromatics
- Heat olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat.
- Add onions, leeks, garlic, carrots, and celery.
- Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened and fragrant.
Build the Flavor
- Stir in sliced fennel, red onion, potatoes, and peppers.
- Add bay leaves, thyme, black peppercorns, and a pinch of salt.
- Cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Simmer the Soup
- Pour in 6 cups of water (or vegetable broth for more depth).
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes.
Add the Rice
- Stir in 1 cup of rice and cook for 10-15 more minutes until tender.
- Remove bay leaves once the soup is fully cooked.
Taste and Adjust
- Check seasoning, adding more salt or pepper if needed.
- If the soup is too thick, add a little more water for the desired consistency.
Garnish and Serve
- Sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.
- Serve hot with a slice of crusty bread or garlic toast.

Notes

For a creamier texture, blend part of the soup with an immersion blender.
Swap rice for quinoa or barley for a different texture.
Use vegetable broth instead of water for a richer flavor.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Soup
Method: Simmering
Cuisine: Mediterranean