Cozy Winter Lazy-Gourmet Soup A Simple Elixir for Cold Weather Comfort
Embrace the winter chill with a bowl of warmth and nutrition, perfect for those lazy days when you want to indulge in something delicious yet effortless. Our Simple Winter Lazy-Gourmet Soup is a delightful concoction that promises to nourish your body and soul, all while requiring minimal effort from you. Here’s how to whip up this comforting elixir that will keep you cozy throughout the cold season.
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
- 1 cup frozen peas
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped cilantro, and a squeeze of lime juice
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Vegetables: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery, sautéing until the onions are translucent and the vegetables begin to soften, about 5 minutes.
2. Add Garlic and Herbs: Stir in the minced garlic, dried thyme, and dried rosemary, cooking for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Cook the Beans and Tomatoes: Pour in the vegetable broth, diced tomatoes (with their juices), black beans, kidney beans, and corn. Bring the mixture to a boil.
4. Simmer: Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the soup simmer for about 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
5. Add Peas: After 20 minutes, stir in the frozen peas and continue to simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
6. Season: Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper, adding more herbs if desired.
7. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with your favorite toppings, such as shredded cheese, a dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of fresh cilantro, or a squeeze of lime juice to brighten the flavors.
Tips:
- Make-Ahead: This soup is great for meal prepping. You can prepare it in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze it for longer storage.
- Customize: Feel free to add any other vegetables you enjoy, such as bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach, for extra nutrients.
- Simplify: If you're short on time, you can use pre-chopped vegetables and a pre-made vegetable broth to speed up the process.
- Savor: Take a moment to enjoy the steam rising from your bowl and the rich, savory aroma of the soup. It’s the perfect winter comfort food.
Conclusion:
The Simple Winter Lazy-Gourmet Soup is more than just a meal; it's a hug in a bowl. It's a reminder that even on the coldest of days, you can create something nourishing and delightful with minimal effort. So, the next time you're curled up on the couch with a blanket, let this warming soup be your companion, filling you with the comfort you deserve this winter season.
