Healing Vegetable Soup: Your Stomach’s Best Friend 🥕🍲
Sometimes, all you need is a warm, nourishing bowl of soup to set your stomach right. This Healing Vegetable Soup is exactly that—a gentle, wholesome medley of fresh vegetables simmered to perfection. Packed with nutrients and easy on digestion, this soup is so comforting you’ll want to eat it day and night (and that’s totally okay!).
Let’s make this healing bowl of goodness!
Why This Soup is Your Go-To for Stomach Comfort
- Gentle & Nourishing: Made with easily digestible ingredients that soothe your stomach.
- Nutrient-Packed: Full of vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants to support your body.
- Hydrating & Light: Helps you stay hydrated while being light on your system.
- Versatile: Customize with your favorite vegetables or herbs.
Ingredients for Healing Vegetable Soup
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 leeks, white and light green parts, chopped
- 2 stalks of celery, chopped
- 1 carrot, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 6 cups vegetable broth or water
- 2 cups chopped cabbage (optional but highly nutritious)
- 1 zucchini, diced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Add-Ins:
- 1 cup diced tomatoes for a tangy touch
- ½ cup cooked quinoa or rice for extra heartiness
- Fresh parsley or dill for garnish
Tools You’ll Need
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Wooden spoon
- Ladle
How to Make Healing Vegetable Soup
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, leeks, and celery. Sauté for 4-5 minutes, until softened and fragrant.
Step 2: Add the Carrots, Peppers, and Garlic
Stir in the carrot, red pepper, and garlic. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, letting the flavors meld.
Step 3: Add Broth and Seasonings
Pour in the vegetable broth (or water). Add the thyme, bay leaf, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Bring to a gentle boil.
Step 4: Add Cabbage and Zucchini
Stir in the cabbage and zucchini. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the soup simmer for 20-25 minutes, until the vegetables are tender.
Step 5: Taste and Adjust
Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or a splash of olive oil if desired.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley or dill. Enjoy it warm and let the healing begin!
Why This Soup is a Stomach Soother
- Leeks and Onions: Rich in prebiotics, they support gut health.
- Celery and Carrots: Hydrating and easy to digest.
- Cabbage and Zucchini: Packed with vitamins and gentle on the stomach.
- Garlic: A natural antimicrobial that promotes gut health in small amounts.
- Olive Oil: Adds healthy fats that help soothe and protect the stomach lining.
What to Serve with Healing Vegetable Soup
This soup is a meal on its own, but you can pair it with:
- Simple Bread: A slice of whole-grain or sourdough bread.
- Light Salad: Mixed greens with a simple lemon vinaigrette.
- Rice or Quinoa: Stirred into the soup for extra texture and protein.
Tips for the Best Vegetable Soup
- Chop Uniformly: Cutting your vegetables into similar-sized pieces ensures even cooking.
- Use Fresh Broth: Homemade or low-sodium store-bought broth adds more flavor.
- Customize the Veggies: Add spinach, kale, or sweet potatoes for variety.
- Don’t Overcook: Simmer just until the vegetables are tender to preserve their nutrients.
Storing and Reheating
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Reheat: Warm gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed.
- Freeze: This soup freezes beautifully! Freeze in individual portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Blend This Soup?
Absolutely! Blend it partially for a creamy texture while leaving some chunks intact, or puree it completely for a smooth soup.
Can I Add Spices?
Yes! Add turmeric or ginger for an anti-inflammatory boost.
Is This Soup Vegan?
Yes, this recipe is naturally vegan and full of plant-based goodness.
Wrapping It Up
This Healing Vegetable Soup isn’t just food—it’s comfort in a bowl. Whether you’re looking to soothe your stomach, boost your health, or enjoy a light and flavorful meal, this soup has you covered.
Tried this recipe? Share your photos on Pinterest or leave a comment to let me know how it turned out. Looking for more nourishing recipes? Check out these:
- Immune-Boosting Turmeric Lentil Soup
- Classic Miso Soup with Vegetables
- Creamy Butternut Squash Soup
Nutritional Information (per serving):
Calories: ~180 | Protein: 4g | Carbs: 18g | Fat: 8g
So grab your pot, chop those veggies, and let this soup work its comforting magic. 🥕✨