Introduction
Indulge in a comforting bowl of creamy vegetable soup that’s perfect for warming up on a chilly day. This easy slow cooker recipe is packed with hearty vegetables, making it a nutritious and delicious choice for the whole family.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
30 ml olive oil
150 g diced onion
200 g diced carrots
200 g diced celery
300 g diced potatoes
200 g frozen corn
150 g frozen peas
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 litre vegetable broth
250 ml heavy cream
50 g all-purpose flour
5 g salt
3 g black pepper
5 g dried Italian herbs
10 g chopped fresh parsley
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 6 hours
Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Enjoy this hearty and creamy vegetable soup as a soothing meal option that is perfect for any day of the week. This nourishing recipe not only satisfies your taste buds but also provides a wealth of nutrients from a variety of vegetables.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1:
In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté diced onions, carrots, and celery until softened, which should take about 5 minutes. The aroma will fill your kitchen, creating a warm and inviting environment.
Step 2:
Transfer the sautéed vegetables to the slow cooker. Make sure to scrape all the bits from the skillet; they add flavor!
Step 3:
Add diced potatoes, frozen corn, frozen peas, and minced garlic into the slow cooker. Then, pour in the vegetable broth. Sprinkle in the salt, black pepper, and dried Italian herbs, allowing the spices to intermingle with the fresh vegetables.
Step 4:
Gently stir the ingredients to combine. The vibrant colors of the vegetables will be a feast for the eyes.
Step 5:
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until all the vegetables are tender and bursting with flavor.
Step 6:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the heavy cream and flour until you achieve a smooth consistency. This step is crucial for adding that creamy texture to your soup.
Step 7:
Pour the cream mixture into the slow cooker. Stir well to blend it in, ensuring that every spoonful will be rich and creamy.
Step 8:
Cover the slow cooker again and cook for an additional 30 minutes on high. This will allow the soup to thicken beautifully, making it wonderfully comforting.
Step 9:
Just before serving, stir in the chopped fresh parsley. This brightens the soup and adds a pop of color and freshness.
Notes
Serving Suggestions:
This soup pairs perfectly with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a well-rounded meal that is both nutritious and satisfying.
Storage:
Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, it can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating Tips:
To reheat, gently warm the soup on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of vegetable broth or cream if it has thickened too much.
Customizations:
Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or beans to this soup for extra nutrients or swap the heavy cream for a lighter alternative such as coconut milk for a different flavor profile.
Nutritional Information:
Each serving is approximately 300 calories, providing a healthy balance of carbohydrates, protein, and fats, especially beneficial on a chilly day.
Cook techniques
Sautéing
Sautéing involves cooking vegetables in a small amount of oil over medium heat until they are softened and aromatic, enhancing their flavors before adding them to the slow cooker.
Slow Cooking
Slow cooking allows ingredients to simmer over low heat for an extended period, resulting in tender vegetables and a rich flavor profile. This technique is ideal for soups and stews.
Whisking
Whisking is used to combine ingredients smoothly, preventing lumps in mixtures like heavy cream and flour. This technique ensures a creamy consistency in the soup.
Thickening
Adding a cream and flour mixture at the end of cooking thickens the soup, creating a luxurious texture. It’s essential to stir well to incorporate it evenly into the soup.
Garnishing
Garnishing with fresh parsley adds a burst of color and freshness just before serving, enhancing both the presentation and flavor of the soup.
FAQ
Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh vegetables. Just ensure they are diced into similar sizes for even cooking.
How can I make this soup vegan?
Substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based cream and use vegetable broth that is free from animal products.
Can I add more spices to the soup?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize with other spices or herbs like thyme or rosemary for added flavor.
What can I serve with the soup?
This creamy vegetable soup pairs well with crusty bread, grilled cheese sandwiches, or a fresh side salad.
How can I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
Conclusion
Indulging in a bowl of slow cooker creamy vegetable soup not only warms the heart and soul but also nourishes the body. This simple yet flavorful recipe is an excellent way to incorporate a variety of vegetables into your family’s diet while enjoying a comforting meal. Perfect for busy nights, this soup is a versatile dish that can be prepared ahead of time, making it a staple for any winter season.
Classic Chicken Noodle Soup
For a more traditional option, try adding shredded rotisserie chicken and egg noodles to the creamy vegetable base. This classic combination brings warmth and heartiness to your meal.
Curried Coconut Vegetable Soup
Introduce a twist by adding coconut milk and curry powder. This flavorful combination provides an aromatic and exotic taste, perfect for those looking to spice things up.
Chunky Beef Vegetable Soup
Incorporate diced beef along with the vegetables for a protein-packed heartiness. This variation offers a rich and savory depth to the soup, making it a filling meal.
Mushroom and Spinach Cream Soup
Add sautéed mushrooms and fresh spinach to the slow cooker. This enhances the nutritional value and offers an earthy flavor that pairs beautifully with the creaminess.
Quinoa and Vegetable Soup
Boost the protein content by adding cooked quinoa to the soup shortly before serving. This will create a satisfying and nutrient-dense dish that’s both wholesome and yummy.
Sweet Potato and Black Bean Soup
Mix diced sweet potatoes and canned black beans for a hearty, fiber-rich twist. This combination brings a delightful sweetness and texture to the creamy base.
Spicy Southwest Vegetable Soup
For those who enjoy a bit of heat, add diced jalapeños and chili powder to the soup. This daring combination awakens the palate while providing a delightful, spicy kick.
Cheesy Broccoli and Cauliflower Soup
Incorporate fresh or frozen broccoli and cauliflower, along with cheddar cheese, for a deliciously cheesy, creamy soup that kids and adults alike will love.
