Copycat Frisch’s Vegetable Soup Recipe

There’s something irresistibly comforting about a hearty bowl of soup, especially when it’s homemade. And when it comes to the classic, soul-soothing comfort food, Frisch’s Vegetable Soup stands out as a beloved favorite. Known for its rich flavors, tender vegetables, and cozy, savory broth, this soup is more than just a dish; it’s a tradition that has been passed down in many households. The best part? You can recreate the magic of Frisch’s Vegetable Soup right in your own kitchen with a simple, copycat recipe that’ll bring the restaurant experience home.

But what makes Frisch’s Vegetable Soup so special? Well, the combination of fresh vegetables, savory seasonings, and the balance of flavors creates a dish that can be enjoyed any time of year. Whether you’re craving a warm meal on a chilly day or simply want something nourishing and light, this recipe is the answer.

In this post, we’re diving into all the details of how to make your very own Frisch’s Vegetable Soup with a homemade twist. We’ll talk about the ingredients, step-by-step instructions, some expert tips to make it perfect, and variations to keep things exciting. So, let’s get started and make some soup magic happen!

Copycat Frisch’s Vegetable Soup Recipe

This recipe is a perfect homage to the classic Frisch’s Vegetable Soup. It’s hearty, flavorful, and full of all the comforting ingredients you expect. We’ll walk you through the entire process to ensure your homemade version is just as good (if not better!) than the one you remember.

Ingredients Needed

Before diving into the cooking process, let’s make sure you have everything you need to bring this soup to life. These are the key ingredients:

• Vegetables

  • Carrots, diced
  • Celery, chopped
  • Green beans, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • Corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
  • Peas (fresh or frozen)
  • Tomatoes (diced, preferably canned)
  • Potatoes (peeled and diced)

• Broth Base

  • Low-sodium vegetable broth (or chicken broth if you’re not vegetarian)
  • Tomato juice (for added depth of flavor)

• Seasonings & Spices

  • Salt & pepper (to taste)
  • Garlic, minced
  • Onion, chopped
  • Dried thyme (or fresh if available)
  • Bay leaves (to enhance the depth of flavor)
  • A pinch of sugar (to balance the acidity of the tomatoes)

• Additional Ingredients

  • Olive oil (for sautéing)
  • Fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)

Cooking Instructions

Now that you’ve got your ingredients laid out, let’s get to the good part: cooking! Follow these steps for a flawless Frisch’s Vegetable Soup experience:

1. Sauté The Aromatics

   Start by heating up about 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing them until they’re fragrant and softened-around 3-4 minutes. This step is key to building that deep, savory base flavor.

2. Cook The Vegetables

   Once the onions and garlic have softened, add the diced carrots, celery, and potatoes to the pot. Stir them around for a few minutes to get them lightly browned. This helps bring out their natural sweetness and enhances the overall flavor of the soup.

3. Add The Broth And Tomatoes

   Pour in the vegetable (or chicken) broth, followed by the tomato juice and diced tomatoes. Bring everything to a simmer over medium-high heat. Stir in your dried thyme, bay leaves, a pinch of sugar, and salt & pepper to taste.

4. Simmer The Soup

   Once everything’s in the pot, lower the heat to a gentle simmer. Let the soup cook uncovered for about 30-45 minutes. This will allow the vegetables to become tender and the flavors to meld together beautifully.

5. Add The Final Veggies

   After the soup has simmered and your house is filled with that mouthwatering aroma, it’s time to add the green beans, peas, and corn. These will cook quickly, so let them simmer for just another 5-10 minutes.

6. Final Seasoning

   Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if necessary. If it needs more salt, pepper, or a little more thyme, feel free to add it in at this point.

7. Garnish & Serve

   Once the soup is finished, serve it hot with a sprinkle of fresh parsley if desired. Pair it with a side of warm bread or crackers for the ultimate comforting meal.

Ingredient Insights

To get the most out of this recipe, it’s important to understand the role of each ingredient:

• Vegetables: The variety of vegetables not only makes the soup colorful and visually appealing but also provides a range of textures and natural sweetness. Potatoes add creaminess, while carrots and celery offer a satisfying crunch.
• Broth: The broth is the foundation of the soup’s flavor. Using a high-quality vegetable or chicken broth will significantly enhance the taste. Low-sodium versions help you control the salt levels in the dish.
• Tomato Juice & Tomatoes: These ingredients give the soup a slight tanginess, balancing out the sweetness of the vegetables. The acidity from the tomatoes also contributes to the richness of the broth.
• Herbs and Spices: Thyme and bay leaves provide earthy undertones, while garlic and onion are classic flavor builders. A pinch of sugar helps cut through the acidity of the tomatoes, giving the soup a well-rounded taste.

Expert Tips

Want to elevate your Frisch’s Vegetable Soup to the next level? Here are a few expert tips to keep in mind:

• Use Fresh, High-Quality Ingredients: Fresh vegetables will always give your soup a brighter, more vibrant flavor. If you can, opt for seasonal produce for the best quality and taste.
• Don’t Skip the Sautéing Step: Sautéing the onions and garlic before adding other ingredients might seem like an extra step, but it builds a much deeper, richer flavor base for your soup.
• Let it Rest: Like many soups, vegetable soup tastes even better the next day. Letting it sit overnight in the fridge allows the flavors to fully develop.
• Feel Free to Customize: If there are vegetables you love or dislike, swap them out. This recipe is versatile and can easily accommodate your personal preferences.

Recipe Variations

While this recipe captures the essence of Frisch’s Vegetable Soup, there’s always room for a little creativity! Here are a few variations you might want to try:

• Add Protein: For a heartier meal, you can add cooked chicken, turkey, or even ground beef. You could also use beans like kidney beans or lentils to keep it vegetarian while adding some protein.
• Spicy Twist: If you like a bit of heat, add a chopped jalapeño or some red pepper flakes while sautéing the onions and garlic. This will give your soup a zesty kick.
• Creamy Version: For a creamier texture, blend part of the soup once the vegetables are tender. You can also stir in some heavy cream or milk toward the end for a velvety finish.
• Herb Variations: While thyme and bay leaves are traditional, you could experiment with herbs like rosemary, basil, or oregano for a different flavor profile.
• Make it Vegan: To make this soup fully plant-based, simply use vegetable broth and opt for olive oil rather than butter. Skip any dairy-based garnishes for a totally vegan dish.

Final Words

Frisch’s Vegetable Soup is the perfect blend of simplicity and comfort. It’s a warm, satisfying meal that not only fills your belly but also nourishes your soul. Whether you follow the recipe exactly as written or choose to make some of your own variations, the end result will always be a bowl full of love and warmth. The beauty of this soup lies in its versatility, so don’t hesitate to tweak it to your liking!