German Vegetable Soup, known as “Gemüsesuppe,” is a comforting and nourishing dish that highlights the robust flavors of fresh, seasonal vegetables. This hearty soup is a staple in German households, especially during the colder months, offering a warm and filling meal that is both simple and satisfying. Packed with an array of root vegetables like carrots, potatoes, and parsnips, along with green beans and cabbage, this soup is simmered slowly to develop deep, rich flavors. The addition of herbs like thyme and bay leaf enhances the earthy notes of the vegetables, making this soup a true celebration of nature’s bounty. Serve it with a slice of rustic bread for a wholesome and complete meal.
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons butter or olive oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 parsnips, peeled and sliced
- 2 potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1/2 small head of cabbage, chopped
- 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
- 6 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Crusty bread, for serving
Instructions:
- Sauté the Vegetables:
- In a large pot, melt the butter or heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing for 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Stir in the sliced carrots, parsnips, and diced potatoes, cooking for another 5 minutes until the vegetables start to soften.
- Add the Broth and Cabbage:
- Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth, then add the chopped cabbage and green beans.
- Stir in the dried thyme and bay leaf.
- Simmer the Soup:
- Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low.
- Cover and let the soup simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until all the vegetables are tender.
- Season and Serve:
- Remove the bay leaf and season the soup with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with chopped fresh parsley.
- Enjoy:
- Serve the German Vegetable Soup hot, accompanied by crusty bread for a delicious and hearty meal.
Enjoy your German Vegetable Soup, a wholesome and flavorful dish that brings the essence of traditional German cooking to your table, perfect for any occasion!
