Description: Irish Vegetable Soup is a hearty and nourishing dish that celebrates the goodness of fresh vegetables. This comforting soup is a staple in Irish households, offering a medley of flavors and nutrients in each spoonful.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Serving size: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 large carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 leek, trimmed and sliced
- 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- In a large soup pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until softened and fragrant.
- Stir in the diced carrots, celery, leek, and potatoes. Cook for a few minutes, allowing the vegetables to slightly caramelize.
- Pour in the vegetable broth and add the bay leaf and dried thyme. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
- Once the vegetables are cooked, remove the bay leaf from the soup.
- Using an immersion blender or a regular blender (in batches), carefully blend the soup until it reaches your desired consistency. For a chunkier texture, leave some vegetables unblended.
- Adjust the seasoning if needed and ladle the Irish Vegetable Soup into bowls.
- Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, and serve piping hot alongside crusty bread for a wholesome and satisfying meal. Enjoy the comforting flavors of Ireland in this nourishing vegetable soup.