Delia Smith Vegetable Soup Recipe

Name: Delia Smith's Vegetable Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: Not specified
Cuisine: British
Ingredients: 3 large carrots, peeled and chopped; 1 celeriac, peeled and cut into pieces; 3 leeks, trimmed, washed, and sliced; 1 swede, peeled and chopped; 1 small onion, roughly chopped; 1.5 liters vegetable stock; 2 bay leaves; Salt and freshly ground black pepper; Optional: fat-free Greek yogurt and fresh chives for serving

Delve into the heartwarming world of traditional British cuisine with Delia Smith's Vegetable Soup recipe, a testament to simplicity and flavor. This dish, originating from the esteemed Delia Smith, showcases the art of transforming humble vegetables into a rich, comforting soup that's both nourishing and satisfying.

Delia Smith's Vegetable Soup: A Brief Overview

This vegetable soup recipe stands as a classic example of Delia Smith's approach to cooking: uncomplicated, wholesome, and always delightful. Utilizing root vegetables and a straightforward preparation method, it embodies the essence of home cooking. It's perfect for those seeking a fat-free option without compromising on taste, making it an ideal choice for health-conscious individuals or anyone looking to savor the authentic flavors of British home cooking.

Ingredients for the Vegetable Soup

The recipe calls for a mix of root vegetables, including:

Carrots and celeriac, each peeled and cut into pieces
Leeks, trimmed, washed, and sliced for a subtle sweetness
Swede, peeled and chopped, adding depth to the soup's flavor profile
A small onion, roughly chopped, forming the soup's aromatic base
Stock, preferably vegetable, to bring all the flavors together
Seasonings like bay leaves, salt, and freshly milled black pepper, which enhance the natural tastes of the vegetables

A few teaspoons of fat-free Greek yogurt and some fresh chives are recommended for serving, adding a creamy tang and a burst of color to the dish.

Preparation Instructions

Preparing Delia Smith's Vegetable Soup involves a few simple steps that begin with preheating the oven and proceed through cooking bacon and onion, adding the rest of the vegetables and peas, and then slow-cooking the mixture in the oven. The process ensures that each ingredient melds together perfectly, resulting in a soup that's rich in flavor and wonderfully aromatic.

Storage and Reheating

For storage, cool the soup completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months. When it's time to reheat, you can either use a microwave or warm the soup gently on the stove, adjusting the consistency with a little stock or water if needed.

Nutritional Information

Each serving of this soup is not just a treat for the taste buds but also a boost for your health, packed with vitamins and minerals. The exact nutritional values can vary, but the soup is generally low in calories while being rich in fiber and essential nutrients, supporting overall well-being.

FAQ about Delia Smith's Vegetable Soup

Can I add other vegetables? Yes, the recipe is quite versatile. Feel free to include other root vegetables or even greens like spinach in the last hour of cooking.
How can I make the soup thicker or thinner? Adjust the texture by playing with the amount of stock used or blending the soup to your desired consistency.
Is this soup suitable for freezing? Absolutely, this soup freezes well, making it perfect for meal prep or for having a wholesome meal ready on busy days.

Delia Smith's Vegetable Soup is more than just a dish; it's a warm embrace in the form of a meal, perfect for any day of the year. Whether you're seeking comfort on a chilly evening or simply want to enjoy a light yet fulfilling meal, this soup promises satisfaction in every spoonful.

Original recipe by Delia Smith, a cherished name in British cooking, known for her approachable and heartwarming dishes that have graced tables for decades.

Enjoy this delightful soup with a side of crusty bread for dipping, and perhaps a light, fresh salad to complete the meal. It's a testament to the beauty of simple ingredients coming together to create something truly special.