Get ready to warm your soul with a bowl of Paula's Classic Southern Soups! This delightful recipe is a comforting embrace on a chilly day, filled with vibrant vegetables and rich flavors that will transport you straight to the heart of the South. With just 15 minutes of prep and a total cooking time of only 1 hour, you’ll be savoring every spoonful of this hearty dish in no time. Whether you're serving it at a family gathering or enjoying a cozy night in, this soup is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Dive into the recipe to discover the secret to making this classic Southern favorite!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs
Cuisine: Southern
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, diced carrots, and diced celery stalks. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender, about 10 minutes.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 20 minutes.
- Add the can of diced tomatoes, thyme, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir well to combine.
- Continue to simmer the soup for an additional 15 minutes, or until the flavors have melded together and the soup has thickened slightly.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
- Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs or crusty bread, if desired.
Tips
- Prep Ahead: Chop your vegetables ahead of time to make the cooking process even quicker. Store them in the fridge until you're ready to start cooking.
- Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini to enhance the flavor and nutrition of your soup.
- Herb Boost: Fresh herbs can elevate the taste significantly. Consider adding a bay leaf during simmering or garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
- Thicker Soup: If you prefer a thicker consistency, blend a portion of the soup with an immersion blender before serving, or add a small amount of cornstarch mixed with water.
- Serve with Style: Pair your soup with crusty bread or cornbread for a complete Southern experience. A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of cheese on top can also add a delicious twist.
- Storage Tips: This soup stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days, and it freezes beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 95kcal
Carbohydrates: 10g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 4g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 5mg
