Church Women United Vegetable Soup(Recipes From Hunger Slide Show)
Hearty vegetable soup with ground meat, carrots, celery, and tomato juice, perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings with rich, savory flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground meat with 4 tablespoons of minced onion until fully cooked.
- Add diced carrots, diced celery, water with bouillon cubes, tomato juice, cream of celery soup, bay leaf, margarine, and pepper.
- Simmer the mixture for 1 1/2 hours to allow flavors to meld.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter option, substitute the ground meat with ground turkey. You can also add other vegetables such as green beans or peas for added nutrition. If you prefer a thicker soup, consider adding a couple of diced potatoes or using less water. Adjust the seasoning to taste, and feel free to incorporate herbs like thyme or parsley for enhanced flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty vegetable soup with crusty bread or crackers for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with a side of Bacon And Cauliflower Salad for a refreshing contrast. For a comforting touch, consider adding a sprinkle of grated cheese on top just before serving. This soup is perfect for gatherings or family dinners.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. If the soup thickens too much, add a little water or broth to reach your desired consistency. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Church Women United Vegetable Soup(Recipes From Hunger Slide Show) contains roughly 606 calories, with 18g protein, 92g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (282% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (118% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (84% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1043mg per serving (45% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make this soup vegetarian by omitting the meat and using vegetable broth instead of water. Add more vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for added flavor and texture. You can also include beans for protein, making it a filling option for those who prefer plant-based meals.
How can I adjust the spice level of the soup?
To adjust the spice level, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the soup while it simmers. Alternatively, serve hot sauce on the side so individuals can add their desired heat level. For a milder flavor, ensure you use low-sodium bouillon cubes and balance the seasoning with fresh herbs.
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of tomato juice?
Absolutely! If you prefer to use fresh tomatoes, you can blend 4-6 ripe tomatoes to replace the tomato juice. This will give the soup a fresher taste. Just be sure to adjust the amount of water accordingly, as fresh tomatoes may add additional liquid. Cook them down until soft before adding other ingredients.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).