Clear Mixed Vegetable Soup

A warm bowl of clear mixed vegetable soup brings a comforting embrace of garden-fresh aromas and light, soothing flavors. The broth shimmers with hints of golden clarity, gently hugging colorful bites of crisp carrots, sweet corn, and tender green beans. Each spoonful feels like a gentle hug, the kind you need on a chilly day or after a long one. It’s light, refreshing, and nourishing without being heavy, making it perfect for any time of the year.

Behind the Recipe

This recipe holds a special place in my heart. I still remember the rainy evenings growing up when my mom would put a pot on the stove, letting it bubble gently with whatever vegetables we had on hand. There was something magical about that mix of steam, spice, and simplicity. It became our go-to comfort soup, especially when someone caught a cold or needed a warm-up after a long school day.

Recipe Origin or Trivia

Clear vegetable soup is a beloved dish across many Asian cuisines, particularly Chinese and Indian. It often forms the base of countless variations in homes and restaurants alike. Its strength lies in its simplicity and its ability to highlight the natural flavor of vegetables without overshadowing them with too much spice or fat. Traditionally served before meals or as a light main, this soup showcases the core philosophy of balance in Asian cooking.

Why You’ll Love Clear Mixed Vegetable Soup

It’s hard not to fall in love with something so pure, colorful, and satisfying. Whether you’re feeling under the weather or just want something light yet flavorful, this soup has you covered.

Versatile: Enjoy it as a starter, a light meal, or even as a detox booster during a cleanse.

Budget-Friendly: Uses everyday vegetables and pantry staples. Easy on the wallet and full of nutrients.

Quick and Easy: Cooks up in just about 20 minutes. Perfect for weeknights or lazy afternoons.

Customizable: Toss in whatever veggies you’ve got in the fridge. You can make it your own every time.

Crowd-Pleasing: Its gentle, savory notes appeal to both kids and adults alike.

Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prep the chopped veggies ahead to speed things up when ready to cook.

Great for Leftovers: Reheats beautifully and even tastes better the next day as the flavors settle.

Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results

To take your clear vegetable soup from good to great, here are a few of my trusted tricks.

• Always sauté the garlic and ginger first. This small step brings depth to the broth without overpowering it.
• Use freshly ground pepper for a gentle heat that builds gradually with every sip.
• Don’t overcook the vegetables. They should remain slightly crisp to give your soup a lovely bite.
• Add the soy sauce at the end for a pop of umami without losing freshness.
• A touch of spring onion greens added right before serving lifts everything with a fresh zing.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

You don’t need much to make this soup, just a few basics from your kitchen shelf.

Large Pot: For boiling and simmering the soup evenly.

Chopping Board and Knife: To dice your vegetables into uniform bites.

Ladle: To serve the soup without making a mess.

Grater or Microplane: For finely mincing ginger and garlic.

Measuring Cups and Spoons: For consistent seasoning and proportions.

Ingredients in Clear Mixed Vegetable Soup

Each ingredient plays its role in creating harmony in this beautiful, broth-based delight.

1. Carrots: ½ cup, chopped – Adds sweetness and vibrant color.
2. Green Beans: ½ cup, chopped – Brings in crunch and freshness.
3. Green Peas: ¼ cup – Offers bursts of sweetness in every bite.
4. Cabbage: ½ cup, shredded – Gives the soup a soft, comforting texture.
5. Sweet Corn Kernels: ¼ cup – Enhances the natural sweetness and texture.
6. Spring Onions: ¼ cup, finely chopped – For sharp, bright flavor.
7. Garlic: 1 teaspoon, minced – Infuses a warm, savory base.
8. Ginger: 1 teaspoon, minced – Brings warmth and spice.
9. Black Pepper: ½ teaspoon, freshly ground – Adds subtle heat.
10. Soy Sauce: 1 tablespoon – For a hint of salty umami.
11. Salt: To taste – Balances and brings all the flavors together.
12. Water: 4 cups – Forms the clear and gentle broth.

Ingredient Substitutions

Making this soup your own is easy. Here’s how you can tweak it based on availability.

Green Beans: Use zucchini for a softer bite.

Cabbage: Try spinach or bok choy for a more leafy version.

Soy Sauce: Tamari or coconut aminos work great for gluten-free needs.

Sweet Corn: Diced bell peppers can give a sweet crunch too.

Ingredient Spotlight

Ginger: Not just for spice, ginger offers a gentle warmth and is known for its soothing digestive benefits.

Spring Onions: These lift the entire dish with their fresh, zesty top-notes and also make a beautiful garnish.

Instructions for Making Clear Mixed Vegetable Soup

This soup is as easy to make as it is satisfying to eat. Just follow along step by step.

1. Preheat Your Equipment: Set your pot over medium heat and let it warm up.
2. Combine Ingredients: Add a splash of oil and sauté the minced garlic and ginger for 30 seconds.
3. Prepare Your Cooking Vessel: Once the aromatics release their fragrance, toss in carrots, beans, peas, corn, cabbage, and spring onions.
4. Assemble the Dish: Stir the veggies for 2–3 minutes, then pour in the water.
5. Cook to Perfection: Let it simmer uncovered for 10–12 minutes. Vegetables should be tender but still colorful and slightly crisp.
6. Finishing Touches: Add soy sauce, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Stir well and taste to adjust seasoning.
7. Serve and Enjoy: Garnish with spring onion greens and serve hot, preferably in warm bowls for that cozy feel.

Texture & Flavor Secrets

What makes this soup special is the contrast. Crisp veggies in a clear, soft broth. The sweetness of carrots and corn balances the slight peppery edge. The soy sauce deepens the flavor without making the broth heavy. It’s light, layered, and lovingly simple.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Every cook could use a few helpful nudges. Here are yours.

• Use fresh vegetables for the brightest color and crunch.
• Don’t cover the pot while simmering. This keeps the broth clear.
• A squeeze of lemon just before serving can add a refreshing zing.
• You can drop in a tiny bit of butter for a silky finish.

What to Avoid

Here’s how to steer clear of the usual mistakes.

• Avoid overcooking the vegetables. Mushy soup is no fun.
• Don’t overload with soy sauce. It can make the broth murky and overly salty.
• Refrain from using too much garlic or ginger. Balance is key.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 90

Note: These are approximate values.

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

You can easily chop the vegetables the night before and refrigerate them in an airtight container. The soup itself stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently simmer on the stove or microwave on medium heat. If freezing, skip the cabbage during cooking and add fresh when reheating for best texture.

How to Serve Clear Mixed Vegetable Soup

Serve it hot with a sprinkle of spring onion greens or a dash of freshly cracked pepper. Pair it with toasted garlic bread, steamed rice, or even momos for a fuller meal. It’s light enough to serve as a starter but satisfying enough to enjoy as a solo bowl.

Creative Leftover Transformations

Give your leftovers a fun spin.

• Turn it into noodle soup by adding cooked rice noodles or vermicelli.
• Mix it with cooked rice and turn it into a quick veggie broth pulao.
• Use it as a light base to steam dumplings.

Additional Tips

Want to jazz it up?

• Add a pinch of chili flakes for a gentle kick.
• Stir in a spoonful of miso paste for an earthy depth.
• Drop in some tofu cubes for added protein and heartiness.

Make It a Showstopper

Presentation makes everything taste better.

• Serve it in wide, shallow bowls to show off the vegetables.
• Use a swirl of soy sauce or sesame oil on top for a gourmet touch.
• Garnish with thinly sliced spring onions and a few microgreens.

Variations to Try

Change things up when the mood strikes.

• Thai-Inspired: Add lemongrass and a splash of lime juice.
• Spicy Version: Stir in chopped green chilies or chili oil.
• Noodle Soup: Add soba, rice, or egg noodles before serving.
• Protein Boost: Drop in some paneer cubes or tofu chunks.
• Creamy Twist: Stir in a splash of coconut milk for a silky finish.

FAQ’s

Q1: Can I use frozen vegetables?

Yes, just be sure to thaw them slightly before cooking to maintain texture.

Q2: Is this soup gluten-free?

It can be, if you use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari.

Q3: Can I pressure cook this?

Yes, but reduce the cook time to 2 minutes and quick release.

Q4: Can I add noodles?

Absolutely, cooked noodles work great stirred in at the end.

Q5: How do I keep the soup clear?

Do not over-stir or boil vigorously. Let it simmer gently.

Q6: Can I skip soy sauce?

Yes, just season with a bit more salt and some herbs for depth.

Q7: Is this soup good for weight loss?

Yes, it’s light, low-calorie, and full of fiber-rich veggies.

Q8: Can I serve this cold?

It’s best hot, but you can serve it lukewarm like a broth if preferred.

Q9: What if I don’t have spring onions?

Use regular onions but sauté them until soft to mellow the flavor.

Q10: Can I add lemon juice?

Yes, a squeeze before serving brightens the flavors wonderfully.

Conclusion

Clear Mixed Vegetable Soup is one of those timeless recipes that never fails to bring comfort and nourishment. It’s soothing, easy to make, and endlessly adaptable. Whether you’re curled up on the couch or setting the table for a cozy dinner, this soup fits right in. Trust me, you’re going to love this one.

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