Mary Berry Vegetable Soup Recipe

Mary Berry’s Vegetable Soup is a hearty, nutritious, and comforting dish that’s perfect for all seasons. Packed with fresh vegetables, this soup offers a burst of flavor and is loaded with vitamins and minerals. It’s an easy recipe that’s great for lunch, dinner, or a light meal. This versatile soup can be made with whatever vegetables you have on hand, making it a great way to use up leftover produce.

What Is Mary Berry Vegetable Soup?

Mary Berry’s Vegetable Soup is a simple yet flavorful dish made with a variety of vegetables such as carrots, celery, onions, potatoes, and leeks. The vegetables are simmered in a light vegetable stock, creating a nourishing and warming soup that’s easy to prepare. It can be served chunky or blended for a smoother texture.

Other Popular Recipes

• Delia Smith Vegetable Soup
• James Martin Vegetable Soup
• Delia Smith Leek and Potato Soup

Why You Should Try This Recipe

• Healthy and Nutritious: Full of vitamins, minerals, and fiber from fresh vegetables.
• Simple Ingredients: Uses everyday vegetables and pantry staples.
• Quick and Easy: Perfect for a busy weeknight meal or a weekend lunch.
• Versatile: You can adjust the vegetables based on what you have available.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Great for batch cooking and storing for later.

Ingredients Needed to Make Mary Berry Vegetable Soup

To make one large pot (serves 4-6), gather the following ingredients:

• 2 tbsp olive oil: For sautéing the vegetables.
• 1 large onion, finely chopped: Adds sweetness and depth.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Adds aromatic flavor.
• 2 carrots, peeled and chopped: Adds natural sweetness and texture.
• 2 celery sticks, chopped: Adds a savory depth and crunch.
• 1 large potato, diced: Thickens the soup and adds heartiness.
• 1 leek, sliced: Adds a mild onion flavor.
• 1.5 liters (6 cups) vegetable stock: Forms the base of the soup and adds flavor.
• Salt and pepper, to taste: For seasoning.
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish): Adds freshness.

Equipment

Here’s what you’ll need to make Mary Berry Vegetable Soup:

• Large pot or Dutch oven: To cook the soup.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: For stirring the vegetables.
• Ladle: For serving the soup.
• Blender or immersion blender (optional): If you prefer a smooth soup.

Instructions to Prepare Mary Berry Vegetable Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

• Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
• Add the chopped onion, garlic, carrots, and celery, and sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are soft and fragrant.

Step 2: Add the Potatoes and Leek

• Stir in the diced potato and sliced leek, and cook for another 3-4 minutes until they start to soften.

Step 3: Add the Stock and Simmer

• Pour in the vegetable stock and bring the mixture to a boil.
• Reduce the heat and let the soup simmer for 20-25 minutes until the vegetables are tender.

Step 4: Blend (Optional)

• If you prefer a smooth soup, use an immersion blender or transfer the soup to a blender and blend until smooth.
• If you prefer a chunky texture, leave the soup as it is or blend just half of it.

Step 5: Season and Serve

• Taste the soup and season with salt and pepper as needed.
• Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired.

What Goes Well with Mary Berry Vegetable Soup?

Here are some great pairings for Mary Berry Vegetable Soup:

• Crusty Bread: Perfect for dipping into the hearty soup.
• Grilled Cheese Sandwich: A classic side for a satisfying meal.
• Green Salad: A fresh salad with a light vinaigrette adds balance to the rich soup.
• Roasted Vegetables: Serve with roasted root vegetables for a complete meal.
• Crackers: A crunchy accompaniment that pairs well with the soup.

Expert Tips for Making the Best Mary Berry Vegetable Soup

To make your Vegetable Soup even better, follow these tips:

• Use Seasonal Vegetables: Use whatever vegetables are in season or in your fridge for the freshest flavor.
• Don’t Overcook the Vegetables: Simmer the soup just until the vegetables are tender to avoid mushy textures.
• Adjust Consistency: If the soup is too thick, add more vegetable stock or water to thin it out.
• Blending Options: For a creamy texture, blend the soup fully. For more texture, blend half the soup or leave it chunky.
• Enhance Flavor: Add a squeeze of lemon juice or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese to boost the flavor.

Easy Variations of Mary Berry Vegetable Soup

Looking to customize your vegetable soup? Try these variations:

• Creamy Vegetable Soup: Stir in a splash of cream or coconut milk for a richer texture.
• Spicy Vegetable Soup: Add chili flakes or fresh chopped chilies for a spicy kick.
• Herb-Infused Soup: Add fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or basil for extra flavor.
• Lentil Vegetable Soup: Add red lentils to make the soup heartier and more filling.
• Tomato Vegetable Soup: Add a can of chopped tomatoes for a tangy twist.

Best Practices to Store Mary Berry Vegetable Soup

Here’s how to store your soup for later:

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: The soup freezes well for up to 3 months. Let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.
• Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through.

Best Practices to Reheat Mary Berry Vegetable Soup

Here’s how to reheat your vegetable soup while keeping it fresh:

• Stovetop: Reheat the soup in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat individual portions in the microwave on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.

How Can I Make Mary Berry Vegetable Soup Healthier?

To make this soup even healthier, try these tips:

• Use Low-Sodium Stock: Opt for a low-sodium vegetable stock to reduce the salt content.
• Skip the Oil: Sauté the vegetables in water or broth instead of olive oil to reduce fat.
• Add More Greens: Include leafy greens like spinach or kale for an extra nutrient boost.

Nutrition Value (per serving)

• Calories: 150
• Fat: 6g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Protein: 3g
• Fiber: 5g
• Sugar: 7g

FAQs

How can I get more flavor in my vegetable soup?

To get more flavor in your vegetable soup, use well-seasoned vegetable stock, sauté your vegetables in olive oil before adding liquid, and incorporate aromatic ingredients like garlic, onions, and fresh herbs. Adding a splash of soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, or a Parmesan rind during simmering can also enhance the soup’s flavor.

What gives vegetable soup that depth of flavor?

The depth of flavor in vegetable soup comes from building layers of seasoning. Start by sautéing vegetables like onions, garlic, and carrots to release their natural sweetness. Using a good quality vegetable stock, fresh herbs, and a dash of acid like lemon juice or balsamic vinegar at the end of cooking adds complexity to the soup.

Why do you put vinegar in vegetable soup?

Vinegar is added to vegetable soup to brighten the flavors and balance the richness. A small amount of vinegar (such as balsamic, apple cider, or red wine vinegar) can cut through the natural sweetness of the vegetables and enhance the overall taste of the soup.

What makes vegetable soup thicker?

To make vegetable soup thicker, you can blend part of the soup to incorporate some of the cooked vegetables back into the broth. Other options include adding potatoes, lentils, or a slurry made from flour or cornstarch mixed with water to help thicken the soup naturally.

What is the secret ingredient to thicken soup?

The secret ingredient to thicken soup is adding a small amount of puréed vegetables or legumes like potatoes, carrots, or lentils. These ingredients naturally thicken the soup without altering the flavor too much. Another trick is to use a cornstarch or flour slurry to thicken the liquid.

Can I freeze Mary Berry’s vegetable soup?

Yes, Mary Berry vegetable soup can be frozen. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight, freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stovetop or microwave.

Can I use different vegetables in Mary Berry vegetable soup?

Yes, this vegetable soup is very versatile, and you can use any vegetables you have on hand. Common additions include zucchini, bell peppers, spinach, and green beans. Simply adjust cooking times for harder vegetables to ensure everything is cooked evenly.

How long does Mary Berry’s vegetable soup last in the fridge?

Mary Berry vegetable soup can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator when stored in an airtight container. For longer storage, consider freezing it.

Final Words

The Mary Berry Vegetable Soup Recipe is a delicious, healthy dish that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s easy to prepare, versatile, and packed with flavor.

Whether you enjoy it chunky or blended, this soup is a great way to warm up and nourish your body with wholesome ingredients.

Give this simple yet satisfying recipe a try and enjoy a bowl of comforting goodness!

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