How to Make French Vegetable and Herb Soup

French Vegetable and Herb Soup, also known as soupe aux légumes, is a classic dish that celebrates the rustic flavors of fresh vegetables and fragrant herbs. This delightful recipe is not only healthy but also versatile, allowing you to use seasonal produce and adjust the flavors to your liking. In this guide, we'll walk you through the steps to create an authentic French vegetable and herb soup.

Ingredients

To prepare a delicious French vegetable and herb soup, gather the following ingredients:

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 carrots, sliced
2 stalks celery, sliced
1 zucchini, diced
1 bell pepper, chopped
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, with juice
4 cups vegetable broth
1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 bay leaf
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh herbs (such as parsley, basil, or chives) for garnish

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your French vegetable and herb soup:

Step 1: Sauté the Base

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute, ensuring it does not burn.

Step 2: Add the Vegetables

Add the sliced carrots, celery, zucchini, and bell pepper to the pot. Stir and cook for around 5 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften slightly.

Step 3: Incorporate Tomatoes and Broth

Stir in the diced tomatoes with their juice, vegetable broth, and green beans. Add the dried thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer.

Step 4: Simmer the Soup

Reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let the soup simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the flavors meld together. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

Remove the bay leaf from the pot. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped herbs of your choice. You can serve it with a slice of crusty French bread for a complete meal.

Variations

This French vegetable and herb soup can be customized in numerous ways:

For a heartier version, add cooked beans or lentils.
Incorporate seasonal vegetables such as peas, corn, or potatoes.
For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
Experiment with different herbs like tarragon, dill, or fennel to find your favorite combination.

Conclusion

Making French vegetable and herb soup is a simple and satisfying way to enjoy a nutritious meal. With fresh ingredients and a few pantry staples, you can create a comforting dish that warms the heart and pleases the palate. Enjoy your culinary journey into French cuisine!