Harvard Vegetable Soup Recipe

If you’re a fan of hearty, flavorful, and nutritious meals, then Harvard Vegetable Soup is something you absolutely need to try. It’s one of those timeless, comforting recipes that is not only filling but also packed with nutrients from a variety of colorful vegetables. Originally inspired by classic New England recipes, this soup has gained popularity for its deep, rich flavors and versatility. Whether you’re looking for a warming lunch, an easy weeknight dinner, or even something to prep for your next big gathering, Harvard Vegetable Soup ticks all the boxes.

One of the beautiful things about this soup is how it can be adjusted to your taste, allowing you to experiment with different vegetable combinations, spices, and seasoning. It’s an easy-to-make recipe that doesn’t require a lot of skill but results in something truly delicious. Let’s dive in and take a closer look at how to make this amazing soup, the ingredients you’ll need, and some expert tips to take it to the next level!

Harvard Vegetable Soup Recipe

Now that you’re intrigued by the idea of this comforting vegetable-filled dish, let’s break it down step by step. Harvard Vegetable Soup is typically a clear broth-based soup, which makes it light yet satisfying. It features a vibrant mix of vegetables that create a deliciously hearty texture, making it perfect for any season.

The key to this soup’s deliciousness lies in the balance of flavors: sweet, savory, and a touch of acidity. Let’s go through the exact ingredients you’ll need to pull this together, along with the cooking steps.

Ingredients Needed

To make an authentic Harvard Vegetable Soup, you’ll need a mix of fresh vegetables and some basic pantry staples. Here’s what you should gather:

• Vegetables

  • Carrots (3 medium-sized): Peeled and sliced thinly
  • Celery (2 stalks): Chopped into bite-sized pieces
  • Onion (1 medium): Finely chopped
  • Potatoes (2 medium): Peeled and diced
  • Tomatoes (2 medium): Peeled and chopped, or you can use canned diced tomatoes
  • Green beans (1 cup): Trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
  • Corn kernels (1 cup): Fresh or frozen, both work great
  • Peas (1/2 cup): Frozen peas will do just fine

• Broth

  • Vegetable broth (4 cups): For a vegan option, you can stick to vegetable broth; otherwise, chicken broth works too for a bit more richness
  • Water (2 cups): Adds to the soup base without overwhelming the flavors

• Seasoning & Spices

  • Garlic (2 cloves): Minced for that aromatic flavor
  • Bay leaves (2): Adds a slight herby fragrance
  • Salt & Pepper: To taste, start with about 1 tsp of salt and 1/2 tsp of pepper and adjust
  • Thyme (1 tsp): Dried thyme works well in this soup
  • Parsley (1/4 cup): Fresh and chopped, for garnish

• Acid

  • Lemon juice (1 tbsp): To add a refreshing tang that will elevate the soup’s flavor

Cooking Instructions

Now, let’s get into the good stuff: how to actually make this soup!

1. Prep Your Vegetables

   • Begin by chopping, peeling, and slicing all of your vegetables. This step is key to ensuring your soup cooks evenly and the flavors meld perfectly.

2. Start With The Base

   • In a large soup pot or Dutch oven, heat a little olive oil over medium heat. Add your chopped onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until the onions are soft and translucent.

3. Add Garlic And Tomatoes

   • Once your veggies are softened, add the garlic and chopped tomatoes. Stir for 1-2 minutes until the tomatoes start to break down and release their juices.

4. Add Broth And Water

   • Pour in the vegetable broth and water. Stir everything together and bring the soup to a boil. Once it reaches a boil, reduce the heat to a simmer and cover the pot. Let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the vegetables begin to soften.

5. Add Remaining Vegetables

   • Now it’s time to add your potatoes, green beans, corn, and peas. Give everything a good stir and allow the soup to simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes until all the vegetables are tender.

6. Season The Soup

   • Add your bay leaves, thyme, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for another 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

7. Finish With Lemon Juice

   • To add a little zing, stir in the lemon juice just before serving.

8. Serve And Garnish

   • Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve hot with a side of crusty bread or crackers. Enjoy the warmth and satisfaction that comes with each spoonful!

Ingredient Insights

• Carrots: Carrots are rich in beta-carotene, which the body converts to vitamin A. This gives them antioxidant properties that support vision and immune health. They also add natural sweetness to the soup.
• Celery: Not just a crunchy vegetable, celery has high water content and is packed with vitamins A, K, and C. It also brings a mild, aromatic flavor to the soup that balances the sweetness of the carrots.
• Potatoes: Potatoes are an excellent source of complex carbohydrates and fiber, making them a filling base for the soup. They also absorb the surrounding flavors well, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.
• Tomatoes: Rich in lycopene, an antioxidant known for its potential cancer-fighting properties, tomatoes also provide a slight tanginess that brightens the flavor profile of the soup.
• Herbs: Thyme and bay leaves not only add depth but are also packed with antioxidants and have mild anti-inflammatory properties. Thyme also supports respiratory health, making this soup even more comforting when you’re under the weather.

Expert Tips

• Simmer Longer for More Flavor: The longer you let the soup simmer, the more time the flavors have to meld. If you have time, simmer it on low heat for up to an hour to deepen the flavors.
• Don’t Overcook the Veggies: While you want the vegetables to be tender, be careful not to overcook them into mush. Check for doneness by tasting as you go.
• Customizable Broth: If you want a richer flavor, add a splash of soy sauce or miso paste to the broth. This will deepen the savory notes without overpowering the fresh vegetable taste.
• Use Fresh Herbs: While dried thyme is perfect for this recipe, fresh thyme adds an extra burst of flavor. You can also experiment with other fresh herbs like rosemary or sage.
• Make it Ahead: Soups often taste better the next day! Make this soup in advance, store it in an airtight container, and reheat it for an even more flavorful meal.

Recipe Variations

As versatile as it is delicious, Harvard Vegetable Soup can be adapted to fit various dietary preferences or just to mix things up a bit. Here are a few variations to consider:

• Add Protein: For a more filling soup, toss in some cooked chicken, turkey, or beans like chickpeas or kidney beans for extra protein.
• Spicy Twist: If you like a little heat, add a chopped jalapeño or a pinch of red pepper flakes. The spicy kick pairs surprisingly well with the soup’s base flavors.
• Creamy Version: Want a creamy soup? Add a splash of coconut milk or heavy cream toward the end of cooking. This gives the soup a velvety texture that’s especially comforting during colder months.
• Low-Carb Option: Skip the potatoes and add cauliflower instead. Cauliflower has a similar texture when cooked and won’t affect the soup’s flavor too much.

Final Words

Harvard Vegetable Soup is more than just a dish; it’s a celebration of simple, fresh ingredients that come together to create something truly satisfying. Its blend of nutritious vegetables, aromatic herbs, and light, flavorful broth makes it a perfect addition to any mealtime. Whether you’re looking for a cozy dinner, a dish to meal prep for the week, or even something to impress guests with, this soup has you covered.