How to Make French Vegan Vegetable Soup with Beans
French vegan vegetable soup with beans is a hearty and nutritious dish that brings the essence of French cuisine to your kitchen without any animal products. This delightful soup combines an array of fresh vegetables with protein-packed beans, making it perfect for a comforting meal. Below are steps and ingredients to guide you through the process of creating this delicious vegan dish.
Ingredients
To prepare French vegan vegetable soup with beans, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 medium zucchini, chopped
- 1 bell pepper (red or yellow), chopped
- 1 can (15 oz) of cannellini beans or chickpeas, rinsed and drained
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Follow these steps to make your French vegan vegetable soup with beans:
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
Begin by washing and chopping all your vegetables. The freshness of your vegetables will significantly impact the flavor of the soup.
Step 2: Sauté the Base
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until they become fragrant and translucent, usually about 5 minutes.
Step 3: Add the Vegetables
Next, stir in the diced carrots, celery, zucchini, and bell pepper. Cook the mixture for another 5 to 7 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften slightly.
Step 4: Incorporate the Broth and Beans
Pour in the vegetable broth, adding the diced tomatoes along with their juices. Stir to combine, then add the rinsed and drained beans. This is where the hearty protein comes into play, making the soup filling and nutritious.
Step 5: Season the Soup
Add the dried thyme, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Stir well and bring the mixture to a boil.
Step 6: Simmer
Once boiling, reduce the heat and let the soup simmer for about 20 minutes. This will allow the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Step 7: Finishing Touches
After simmering, taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as necessary. If you prefer a thicker soup, you can blend a portion of it with an immersion blender.
Step 8: Serve
Serve your French vegan vegetable soup hot, garnished with fresh chopped parsley. Pair it with crusty bread for a complete meal.
Tips for Customization
This vegan soup is highly customizable. Feel free to include seasonal vegetables or your favorites. Kale, spinach, or green beans work wonderfully, as do herbs like rosemary or oregano for a different flavor profile.
Storage
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This soup also freezes well, making it perfect for meal prep!
Enjoy the heartwarming flavors of French vegan vegetable soup with beans, a delightful dish that nourishes both body and soul.