Dolly Parton Stampede Vegetable Soup Recipe

If you’ve ever visited Dolly Parton’s Stampede, you know it’s not just a show-it’s an experience. From the energetic performances to the mouthwatering food, it’s an unforgettable evening of entertainment and indulgence. One dish that stands out at the dinner table is the Dolly Parton Stampede Vegetable Soup. A crowd favorite, this hearty and flavorful soup is packed with a rich combination of vegetables, spices, and love. It’s the kind of soup that warms you up from the inside out, making it perfect for cozy nights or gatherings with family and friends.

Today, we’re diving deep into how you can recreate this classic, from the ingredients you’ll need to expert tips and variations to make it your own. Let’s break down everything you need to know about making Dolly Parton’s Stampede Vegetable Soup, a dish that’s as comforting as it is delicious.

Dolly Parton Stampede Vegetable Soup Recipe

This recipe is all about simplicity and comfort. Packed with fresh veggies, hearty broth, and just the right amount of seasoning, this vegetable soup is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or someone who prefers easy-to-follow recipes, this one fits the bill.

Ingredients Needed

To get started, here’s a list of the ingredients you’ll need for this vibrant and flavorful vegetable soup:

• Vegetables

  • Carrots (chopped)
  • Celery (diced)
  • Onion (diced)
  • Tomatoes (diced, canned or fresh)
  • Green beans (cut into small pieces)
  • Corn (fresh or frozen)
  • Potatoes (peeled and cubed)
  • Peas (optional, for extra texture)

• Broth And Liquids

  • Vegetable broth (or chicken broth, depending on preference)
  • Tomato juice (for depth and richness)

• Seasoning And Spices

  • Salt and pepper (to taste)
  • Garlic (minced)
  • Bay leaves (for aroma)
  • Thyme (dried or fresh)
  • Basil (dried or fresh)
  • Oregano (dried or fresh)

• Add-ins (Optional)

  • Cooked chicken (shredded, for a non-vegetarian version)
  • Pasta (small shapes like ditalini, optional for a more filling soup)
  • A drizzle of olive oil (for sautéing)

Cooking Instructions

Now that you’ve gathered all your ingredients, here’s how you bring this delicious soup to life:

1. Prepare The Vegetables

   • Start by prepping all the veggies-chop the carrots, celery, and potatoes, dice the onion, and cut the green beans. If you’re using fresh tomatoes, dice those as well.

2. Sauté The Aromatics

   • In a large pot, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onions, carrots, and celery, and sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the onions are soft and translucent. This will bring out their natural sweetness and flavors.

3. Add The Garlic And Herbs

   • Toss in the minced garlic and stir for about 1 minute until fragrant. Then, add the thyme, basil, oregano, and a couple of bay leaves. The aroma will start to fill your kitchen, making your mouth water.

4. Simmer The Soup

   • Pour in the vegetable broth and tomato juice. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat. Once it starts to boil, reduce the heat to medium-low and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

5. Add The Vegetables

   • Next, add the green beans, corn, peas (if using), and potatoes. Stir everything together and allow it to simmer for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes and carrots are tender and cooked through.

6. Final Seasoning Adjustments

   • Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper, depending on your preferences. Remove the bay leaves before serving.

7. Serve And Enjoy

   • Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot. You can garnish with some fresh parsley for a pop of color and a sprinkle of cheese if you like.

Ingredient Insights

Each ingredient in Dolly Parton’s Stampede Vegetable Soup plays a vital role in creating that perfect balance of flavor, texture, and nutrition. Let’s break down a few key ingredients and why they work so well together:

• Vegetables: The mix of root vegetables like potatoes and carrots provides earthiness and texture. The green beans and peas add a bit of crunch, while the corn offers sweetness, balancing out the savory elements.
• Vegetable Broth and Tomato Juice: These form the backbone of the soup’s flavor. The broth adds depth and umami, while the tomato juice gives it a tangy, slightly sweet undertone, which complements the fresh veggies perfectly.
• Herbs and Spices: A simple combination of basil, thyme, oregano, and bay leaves infuses the soup with aromatic flavors without overwhelming the natural sweetness of the vegetables.
• Garlic: Garlic enhances the soup’s overall savory profile and adds a subtle richness to each bite.

Expert Tips

To make sure your Dolly Parton Stampede Vegetable Soup turns out perfectly every time, here are a few expert tips to consider:

• Use Fresh Veggies: Whenever possible, opt for fresh vegetables instead of canned. They’ll give the soup a brighter, more vibrant flavor and better texture.
• Customize the Broth: While vegetable broth is the classic choice, chicken broth can add more depth to the flavor if you’re not keeping it strictly vegetarian. If you like a richer taste, try adding a splash of white wine during the simmering process.
• Texture Matters: If you prefer a thicker soup, you can puree part of the soup once the vegetables are tender, then mix it back into the pot. This will create a creamy texture without using dairy.
• Season Gradually: Always taste the soup as you go. Seasoning in layers ensures you get the most balanced flavors. Don’t just wait until the end to adjust-it’s easier to add more salt or pepper gradually rather than over-seasoning all at once.

Recipe Variations

This vegetable soup is very flexible, so feel free to get creative and adapt it to suit your preferences. Here are some variations you can try:

• Add Protein: If you want to make this soup a heartier meal, add some cooked chicken or even lean beef. It’s a great way to increase the protein content without losing the comforting essence of the soup.
• Add Pasta: For a more filling version, toss in some small pasta like ditalini, elbow macaroni, or orzo. Just be sure to add it toward the end of the cooking time to prevent it from overcooking and becoming mushy.
• Make it Spicy: For those who love a little kick, try adding some chopped green chilies, a dash of cayenne pepper, or a spoonful of hot sauce. This variation gives the soup an exciting heat without overpowering the veggies.
• Vegan Version: For a vegan twist, skip any non-vegetarian add-ins like chicken and cheese, and stick to plant-based broth and ingredients.

Final Words

Making Dolly Parton’s Stampede Vegetable Soup is a perfect way to bring a taste of the show right into your home. Whether you’re trying to recreate a favorite dish from a memorable night out or just want a comforting, healthy meal, this soup is guaranteed to impress. The blend of fresh vegetables, rich broth, and fragrant spices come together in a way that’s simple yet deeply satisfying.