Description of this recipe: This vibrant, nutrient-packed Green Goddess Soup is a delicious way to boost your immune system and nourish your body from the inside out. Loaded with an array of green vegetables, aromatic spices, and healthy fats, this soup is a comforting and revitalizing meal that’s perfect for any time of year.
Why you will love this recipe:
- Immunity Booster: This soup is packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants from a variety of green vegetables, including kale, spinach, broccoli, and peas. These nutrients work together to strengthen your immune system and protect against illness.
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of aromatic spices, creamy texture, and subtle sweetness from the peas creates a complex and satisfying flavor profile that will leave you wanting more.
- Versatile and Adaptable: This recipe is easily customizable to suit your preferences and dietary needs. You can add other vegetables, swap out the cream for coconut milk, or adjust the spices to your liking.
- Quick and Easy: This soup comes together in under an hour, making it a perfect weeknight meal option.
- Healthy and Nutritious: This soup is a great way to get your daily dose of vegetables and essential nutrients. It’s also low in calories and fat, making it a guilt-free indulgence.
Ingredients:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 1 leek (white part only) or another onion, diced
- 1 medium fennel, chopped
- 2 celery stems, roughly chopped
- 5 garlic cloves, roughly minced
- ¾ tsp allspice powder (sub mixed spice)
- ¾ tsp cumin powder (sub coriander)
- 1 medium potato (any type), peeled, 1.5 cm cubes
- 1 head broccoli, florets (peel and chop stalk too)
- 2 ½ tsp cooking / kosher salt
- ¾ tsp black pepper
- 1.75 liters / quarts water
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 5 cups (tightly packed) kale leaves, roughly chopped (1 small bunch)
- 5 cups (tightly packed) baby spinach
- ¾ cup thickened cream
Garnishes:
- 2 tbsp sunflower seeds, toasted (or croutons or other toasted nuts)
- Cream and/or olive oil for drizzling
Preparation:
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large pot (6L/qt) over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion, leek (or another onion), chopped fennel, celery, and minced garlic. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften and become fragrant. This step is crucial for building the foundational flavors of the soup. Don’t rush it; allow the vegetables to gently release their sweetness and aroma.
Step 2: Bloom the Spices: Add the allspice powder and cumin powder to the pot. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, until the spices become fragrant. This process, known as “blooming” the spices, helps to release their essential oils and enhance their flavor. Be careful not to burn the spices, as this can create a bitter taste.
Step 3: Simmer the Soup: Pour the water into the pot. Add the peeled and cubed potato, broccoli florets (and chopped stalk), salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender. The potato will help to thicken the soup and add a creamy texture. Simmering allows the flavors to meld together, creating a harmonious and delicious broth.
Step 4: Add the Peas and Greens: Add the frozen peas to the pot and simmer for 1 minute. This quick cooking time ensures that the peas retain their vibrant green color and fresh flavor. Remove the pot from the heat. Add the chopped kale, pushing it down into the liquid to wilt slightly. Then, add the baby spinach and push it down as well. The residual heat will wilt the greens without overcooking them.
Step 5: Blend and Finish: Using an immersion blender (stick blender), carefully blend the soup until it is mostly smooth. You may still have some small bits of green for added texture, which is perfectly fine. Alternatively, you can transfer the soup to a regular blender in batches, being careful to vent the lid to prevent pressure buildup. Return the blended soup to the pot. Stir in the thickened cream until it is fully incorporated. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed, adding more salt and pepper if desired.
COOKING Rating:
- Ease of Preparation: Easy
- Flavor Profile: Savory, slightly sweet, aromatic, creamy
- Overall Rating: 5/5 Stars
Serving Suggestions:
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with a drizzle of extra cream or olive oil.
- Sprinkle toasted sunflower seeds, croutons, or other toasted nuts over the soup for added crunch and flavor.
- Serve with a side of crusty bread for dipping.
- Add a dollop of plain yogurt or sour cream for extra tanginess.
- Pair with a grilled cheese sandwich or a simple salad for a complete meal.
Tips:
- Don’t Overcook the Vegetables: Overcooking the vegetables can result in a mushy texture and a loss of nutrients. Cook them until they are tender but still have a bit of bite.
- Adjust the Spices to Your Liking: Feel free to experiment with different spices and herbs to create your own unique flavor profile.
- Use Fresh, High-Quality Ingredients: The better the quality of your ingredients, the better your soup will taste.
- Make it Vegan: Substitute the thickened cream with full-fat coconut milk.
- Make it Ahead: This soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving.
Prep Time: 15 minutes Cook Time: 30 minutes Total Time: 45 minutes
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate): Note: Nutritional information can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 10g
- Sodium: 800mg
Conclusion:
This Immunity-Boosting Green Goddess Soup is a delicious and nutritious way to nourish your body and strengthen your immune system. With its vibrant flavors, creamy texture, and easy preparation, this soup is sure to become a new family favorite. So, gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and get ready to enjoy a bowl of goodness! This soup is not just a meal; it’s an act of self-care, a way to show your body some love and give it the nutrients it needs to thrive. Enjoy the process of creating this vibrant dish, and savor every spoonful of this delicious and healthful soup. It’s a culinary hug in a bowl, perfect for a chilly evening or any time you need a boost of energy and well-being. The bright green color alone is enough to lift your spirits! So go ahead, embrace the green goodness and make this soup your own. Experiment with different vegetables, spices, and toppings to create a flavor combination that you love. The possibilities are endless! Bon appétit!
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q1: Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh? A: Yes, you can use frozen spinach. Make sure to thaw it and squeeze out any excess water before adding it to the soup to avoid a watery consistency.
Q2: I don’t have allspice powder. What can I substitute? A: You can substitute allspice powder with mixed spice, or a combination of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
Q3: Can I make this soup without cream? A: Absolutely! You can omit the cream altogether or substitute it with coconut milk for a vegan option. The soup will still be delicious and creamy.
Q4: Can I add other vegetables to this soup? A: Yes, feel free to add other vegetables such as zucchini, asparagus, or green beans. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Q5: How long does this soup last in the refrigerator? A: This soup will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. Make sure to store it in an airtight container.
