Lola'S Vegetable Soup
A hearty vegetable soup combining frozen vegetables, potatoes, and tomatoes, perfect for a comforting, wholesome meal that suits all ages and tastes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Rinse the frozen mixed vegetables.
- Combine all ingredients in a large cooking pot on medium heat.
- Cook for 45 minutes to 1 hour.
- Then simmer the soup for another 45 minutes to an hour.
- Serve hot with cornbread.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, sauté the onion in the shortening and margarine before adding the other ingredients. You can substitute fresh vegetables if you prefer, using about 4 cups of chopped veggies. Adjust the seasoning with herbs like thyme or bay leaves for added depth. If you want a thicker soup, consider blending a portion of it before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this comforting vegetable soup with a slice of cornbread for a satisfying meal. It also pairs well with a fresh salad or a grilled cheese sandwich for a classic combination. For an extra kick, consider adding hot sauce or a sprinkle of cheese on top before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if it has thickened too much during storage.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lola'S Vegetable Soup contains roughly 543 calories, with 4g protein, 38g carbohydrates, and 42g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (39% of the Daily Value) and potassium (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 824mg per serving (36% of the Daily Value).
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh vegetables! Just chop them into similar-sized pieces and adjust the cooking time accordingly. Fresh vegetables may require a bit less time to cook than frozen ones, so keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.
Is this soup vegan?
To make this soup vegan, simply replace the shortening and margarine with a plant-based alternative. Most vegetable shortenings or oils work well. Additionally, ensure that the vegetable broth used is also vegan, if you choose to add broth instead of water.
How can I make this soup heartier?
To make Lola's Vegetable Soup heartier, consider adding cooked beans or lentils for protein. You can also include grains like rice or quinoa, which will absorb flavors and add substance. Just adjust the liquid accordingly to ensure the soup remains flavorful.
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).