Vegetable clear soup is a light, nutritious, and comforting dish that is perfect for any meal. Whether you’re looking for a healthy appetizer, a soothing remedy on a cold day, or a low-calorie option to start your lunch or dinner, this soup fits the bill perfectly. Packed with fresh vegetables and aromatic herbs, a homemade vegetable clear soup is not only delicious but also free from preservatives and excess salt that store-bought soups often contain.
In this guide, we’ll show you 5 easy steps to make a rich, flavorful, and wholesome vegetable clear soup at home.
Why Vegetable Clear Soup is Worth Making
Before diving into the recipe, let’s explore why vegetable clear soup is a fantastic addition to your diet:
- Low in Calories: A clear soup is light and easy on the stomach, perfect for weight-conscious individuals.
- Packed with Nutrients: Fresh vegetables provide vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that boost immunity.
- Digestive-Friendly: Clear soups are gentle on the digestive system and aid in hydration.
- Customizable: You can add any seasonal vegetables or herbs to enhance flavor and nutrition.
With these benefits in mind, let’s start making your homemade vegetable clear soup.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Carrot – 1 medium, julienned or thinly sliced
- Beans – 6–8, chopped
- Capsicum (Bell Pepper) – ½, finely chopped
- Cabbage – ½ cup, thinly shredded
- Spring onions – 2 stalks, chopped
- Garlic – 2 cloves, finely chopped
- Ginger – 1 tsp, grated
- Cornflour – 1 tsp (optional, for slight thickness)
- Salt – to taste
- Black pepper powder – ½ tsp
- Water or vegetable broth – 4 cups
- Soy sauce – 1 tsp (optional, for flavor)
- Olive oil or butter – 1 tsp (optional)
- Fresh coriander or parsley – for garnish
Step 1: Preparing Your Vegetables
Preparation is key for a flavorful soup.
- Wash all the vegetables thoroughly.
- Slice carrots, beans, capsicum, and cabbage into thin, uniform pieces. Uniformity ensures even cooking.
- Chop spring onions and keep them aside for garnishing later.
- Mince garlic and grate ginger for a fresh, aromatic base.
Pro tip: You can use any seasonal vegetables like zucchini, spinach, or broccoli to personalize your soup.
Step 2: Making the Aromatic Base
The base gives the soup its depth of flavor:
- Heat 1 tsp of olive oil or butter in a pot over medium heat. For an oil-free version, you can skip this step and use a splash of water.
- Add garlic and ginger, sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
- Optionally, add the white part of spring onions for extra aroma.
- Stir gently to avoid burning the garlic.
Tip: Avoid high heat; garlic can turn bitter if overcooked.
Step 3: Adding the Vegetables and Broth
Once the base is ready:
- Add all your chopped vegetables (except spring onion greens) into the pot.
- Pour in 4 cups of water or vegetable broth. Using broth gives a richer flavor, while water keeps it light.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to simmer.
- Cover the pot and cook for 8–10 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still slightly crunchy.
Pro tip: Avoid overcooking vegetables—they should retain their color and slight crunch for a fresh taste.
Step 4: Seasoning and Optional Thickening
This step ensures the soup is flavorful and balanced:
- Add salt and black pepper powder to taste.
- For a slightly thicker soup, mix 1 tsp cornflour with 2 tbsp water to make a slurry and slowly stir into the soup.
- Optional: Add 1 tsp soy sauce for an umami flavor reminiscent of restaurant-style soups.
- Simmer for another 2–3 minutes, letting the flavors meld together.
Tip: Taste the soup before adding salt; vegetable broth can already be salty.
Step 5: Finishing Touches and Serving
- Turn off the heat and garnish your soup with fresh coriander or parsley.
- Add the green part of spring onions for color and mild onion flavor.
- Serve the soup hot in bowls. Pair with crusty bread or garlic toast for a comforting meal.
Pro tip: For extra aroma, drizzle a few drops of sesame oil on top before serving.
Tips for Making Perfect Vegetable Clear Soup
- Use Fresh Vegetables: Fresh, seasonal vegetables enhance flavor and nutrition.
- Cut Uniformly: Even-sized pieces cook consistently and look appealing.
- Avoid Overcooking: Keep the vegetables slightly crisp to retain nutrients and vibrant colors.
- Customize Flavors: Add herbs like thyme, basil, or bay leaf for variety.
- Low-Calorie Version: Skip oil and soy sauce for a lighter, diet-friendly soup.
Health Benefits of Vegetable Clear Soup
- Hydrating: Contains a high water content that keeps you hydrated.
- Low-Calorie and Digestive-Friendly: Ideal for light meals or detox days.
- Rich in Antioxidants: Vegetables provide vitamins A, C, and minerals.
- Boosts Immunity: Garlic, ginger, and fresh herbs support your immune system.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve as a starter for lunch or dinner.
- Pair with grilled sandwiches or bread rolls for a light meal.
- Enjoy as a light dinner for weight management or digestive health.
- Garnish with croutons or roasted seeds for added texture and flavor.
Conclusion
Making vegetable clear soup at home is simple, healthy, and satisfying. With just five easy steps—preparing fresh vegetables, making an aromatic base, adding broth, seasoning, and finishing with garnishes—you can create a light and flavorful soup perfect for any occasion.
This soup not only nourishes your body but also warms your soul with its rich aroma and comforting flavors. So next time you want a healthy and delicious soup, try this homemade vegetable clear soup—it’s wholesome, easy, and absolutely delightful!
