Viusjuras Arzenu Zupa - Delightful Vegetable Soup

This wonderful vegetable soup brings a burst of flavors to your dining table, combining a medley of vibrant veggies perfectly. The dish is a wholesome meal option that is both nourishing and satisfying. With a combination of eggplants, potatoes, and a hint of sweetness from carrots, this soup is beautifully complemented by the rich taste of tomatoes. A touch of celery and green or red peppers boosts this soup’s aroma, enriching its flavor profile. Perfect for lunch or dinner, this soup can be served as a starter or a main course. It's simple to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy weekdays and a comforting option to cozy up to during colder months. Enjoy the infused flavors as they blend together in this hearty, soulful bowl of goodness. Whether you’re catering to a vegetarian palate or just looking to add more vegetables to your meal plan, this soup is sure to please. Add a loaf of crusty bread on the side, and you have a complete meal. Its colorful ingredients not only make it visually appealing but also rich in essential nutrients.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

• 2 large onions
• 6 potatoes
• 2 green or red peppers
• 2 eggplants
• 1 carrot
• 500 g tomatoes
• 1 celery stalk

Spices and Sauces:

• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt
• Pepper

Preparation Time

• Total Time: 30 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. Prepare the Vegetables:

   • Wash all the vegetables thoroughly.
   • Dice the eggplants into cubes, sprinkle them with salt, and set them aside to release their juices.
   • Cut the tomatoes and onions into cubes.
   • Peel and dice the potatoes into bite-sized pieces.
   • Chop the peppers into chunks.

2. Resting the Eggplants:

   • Rinse the eggplants thoroughly to remove excess salt and any bitter juices.

3. Cooking the Base:

   • In a large saucepan, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.
   • Add the finely chopped celery and sliced carrots to the pan. Sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.

4. Building the Flavors:

   • Add the tomatoes, stirring occasionally until they begin to break down and release their juices.
   • Incorporate the drained eggplants, peppers, potatoes, and onions, mixing well to coat all veggies with the tomato and oil mixture.

5. Seasoning:

   • Sprinkle the mixture with salt and pepper to taste.
   • Add enough water to the pot to just cover the vegetables.

6. Simmer:

   • Bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer.
   • Cover the pot and cook for approximately 10 minutes or until all vegetables are tender.

7. Final Touches:

   • Adjust seasoning if necessary, adding more salt and pepper to your taste preference.

8. Serve:

   • Ladle the soup into bowls, garnishing with a drizzle of olive oil if desired.
   • Enjoy your warm, delicious vegetable soup!

Tips

• Substitutions: You can substitute potatoes with sweet potatoes for a slightly different flavor and texture.
• Thicker Soup: For a thicker consistency, blend a portion of the soup before serving.
• Extra Flavor: Add herbs such as thyme or basil for added aroma and taste.

Nutritions

• Calories: Approximately 250 per serving
• Proteins: 4 g
• Fats: 10 g
• Carbohydrates: 35 g

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of chili flakes for an extra spicy kick.
• Vegan Option: This recipe is naturally vegan.
• Dairy-Free Option: Omit any dairy garnishes, like cheese.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with crusty bread or a side of garlic toast.
• Pair with a light salad for a full meal.

Best Places

• The Green Spoon - Known for its hearty plant-based soups and cozy atmosphere. Location: 123 Green Street, Toronto, Canada.
• Soup Symphony - Offers a variety of international soups with a home-like ambiance. Location: 45 Cup Avenue, New York, USA.
• Bowlful Delights - A charming spot famous for its unique soup blends. Location: 357 Harmony Lane, Paris, France.
• Rustic Roots Cafe - Offers fresh-from-the-farm ingredients in every dish. Location: 892 Farmview Rd, Melbourne, Australia.
• Vegan Nook - Specializes in vegan soups and stews with a twist. Location: 77 Elmway, London, UK.
• Herb & Spoon - Where herbs and spices take center stage. Location: 29 Spice Road, Rome, Italy.
• Zuppa's Delight - Renowned for its consistent quality and delightful flavors. Location: 210 Pasta Blvd, Florence, Italy.
• Veggie Feast - A haven for vegetable lovers. Location: 62 Vegan Lane, Berlin, Germany.
• Savor Kitchen - Exquisite vegetarian and vegan-friendly options. Location: 41 Glutton Square, Amsterdam, Netherlands.
• Soup Haven - Delightful for its creative soup offerings. Location: 183 Serenity Lane, Dublin, Ireland.