Hidden Vegetable Soup
Description
This Hidden Vegetable Soup is a clever way to enjoy a nutrient-packed meal without noticing the chunks of veggies. By blending onions, carrots, celery, peppers, and cabbage with garlic, you create a velvety, aromatic broth that mimics a creamy texture while remaining entirely dairy-free and vegan. The addition of canned tomatoes, salsa, and fresh herbs like oregano and basil provides a robust, zesty flavor profile typical of Mexican cuisine. A splash of balsamic vinegar at the end adds a subtle tang that brightens the dish. Its perfect for cold evenings, meal prep lunches, or anyone trying to sneak more vegetables into their diet. Serve with crusty bread for a satisfying main course.Ingredients
Directions
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Place the chopped onion, carrots, celery, green pepper, cabbage, and garlic into a blender.
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Add enough tomato juice to the blender to help the blades move, and puree the vegetables until completely smooth. You may need to do this in batches if your blender is small.
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Pour the pureed vegetable mixture into a large pot.
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Add the canned tomatoes, salsa, remaining tomato juice, fresh oregano, basil, and black pepper to the pot.
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If using raw or partially cooked brown rice, add it to the pot now. If using leftover cooked rice, set it aside to add later.
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Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and flavors have melded.
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If using pre-cooked rice, stir it into the soup during the last 2-3 minutes of cooking to warm through.
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If the soup is too thick, stir in additional tomato juice or water to reach your desired consistency.
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Just before serving, stir in a splash of balsamic vinegar to taste.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 5
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 45.2kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 0.3g1%
- Saturated Fat 0.0g0%
- Cholesterol 0.0mg0%
- Sodium 54.5mg3%
- Total Carbohydrate 10.6g4%
- Dietary Fiber 3.2g13%
- Sugars 5.1g
- Protein 1.3g3%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
Storage: This soup keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It also freezes beautifully; allow to cool completely before transferring to airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months.
Rice Variation: Brown rice takes longer to cook than white rice. If you prefer white rice, it will cook faster, so check for doneness earlier. Alternatively, use leftover cooked rice to save time, adding it at the very end just to heat through.
Texture Tip: Ensure the vegetable puree is completely smooth before adding it to the pot to maintain the "hidden" vegetable aspect of this soup.
Serving Suggestion: Serve with crusty bread, corn tortillas, or a side of rice and beans for a complete meal.
