How to Make French Soup with Shrimp and Vegetables
French cuisine is renowned for its delicate flavors and wholesome dishes, and nothing embodies this better than a delicious soup. This recipe for French soup with shrimp and vegetables is not only delightful but also easy to prepare. Filled with fresh ingredients and aromatic herbs, this soup is perfect for a cozy evening or a festive gathering.
Ingredients
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 1 celery stalk, diced
- 1 zucchini, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 4 cups vegetable or seafood broth
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
Start by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
Step 2: Add Other Vegetables
Next, add the diced carrots, celery, zucchini, and red bell pepper to the pot. Sauté the mixture for about 5-7 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften a bit.
Step 3: Incorporate Liquid and Seasoning
Add the diced tomatoes, vegetable or seafood broth, dried thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir the ingredients well, ensuring everything is mixed properly. Bring the soup to a gentle boil.
Step 4: Simmer the Soup
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer for approximately 20 minutes. This will allow the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Step 5: Add the Shrimp
After the soup has simmered, add the peeled and deveined shrimp. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes until the shrimp turns pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook the shrimp, as it can become rubbery.
Step 6: Final Touches
Remove the bay leaf from the pot and taste the soup. Adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. If you prefer a bit of acidity, a squeeze of lemon juice can brighten up the flavors.
Step 7: Serve
ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley or basil. Serve warm with crusty bread for a complete meal.
Tips for the Perfect French Soup
- Use fresh shrimp for a better taste. If you’re using frozen shrimp, ensure they are fully thawed before cooking.
- Feel free to mix and match vegetables based on what’s in season or what you have on hand.
- For a richer flavor, add a splash of white wine while sautéing the vegetables.
This French soup with shrimp and vegetables is not only comforting and satisfying but also packed with nutrients. Perfect for any occasion, it can be a hit at family dinners or casual lunchtime gatherings. Enjoy your culinary journey through classic French flavors!