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Stone Soup

Stone Soup

Stone Soup is a hearty and comforting soup rooted in folklore and community spirit. Using simple, everyday ingredients like fresh vegetables, herbs, and broth, this easy-to-make recipe delivers rich, nourishing flavor perfect for cozy dinners and family gatherings. With endless variations and a tradition of sharing, Stone Soup brings warmth and togetherness to your table.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 large, smooth clean stone (optional, for tradition and presentation)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
  • 1 large onion, diced
  • 23 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 celery stalks, diced
  • 3 carrots, peeled and chopped
  • 3 medium potatoes, peeled and chopped
  • 6 cups vegetable or chicken broth
  • Salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Fresh herbs (thyme or parsley), chopped, for flavor and garnish

Optional Variations Add-Ins

  • Diced chicken, sausage, or bacon (for a hearty meat version)
  • Mushrooms, kale, zucchini (for a vegan twist)
  • Crushed red pepper flakes, smoked paprika, or hot sauce (for a spicy kick)
  • Cooked rice, barley, or quinoa (to make soup more filling)
  • Grated Parmesan cheese or sour cream (for a creamy topping)

Instructions

  1. Prepare Your Ingredients: Wash and chop all vegetables into bite-sized pieces for even cooking and comfortable eating. If using a physical stone, clean and sterilize it thoroughly.
  2. Sauté the Aromatics: Heat olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onions, minced garlic, and celery. Cook until fragrant and translucent, building a flavorful base.
  3. Add Vegetables and Broth: Stir in chopped potatoes, carrots, and any additional vegetables. Pour in the broth and carefully place the clean stone into the pot if desired to honor tradition. Bring everything to a gentle simmer.
  4. Simmer Until Tender: Let the soup cook gently for 30-40 minutes, or until all vegetables are tender and the flavors meld well. Stir occasionally and season gradually with salt and pepper to taste.
  5. Serve and Enjoy: Remove the stone if used. Ladle soup into bowls, garnish with fresh herbs, a drizzle of olive oil, or sprinkle grated cheese if desired. Enjoy warm and comforting.

Notes

  • Use fresh, seasonal vegetables for best flavor and nutrition.
  • Don’t skip sautéing aromatics; it adds valuable depth to the soup.
  • Customize broth with homemade stock or bouillon cubes to enhance richness.
  • If using a physical stone, sterilize it thoroughly to ensure food safety.
  • Season gradually and taste throughout cooking to avoid over-salting.

Nutrition

Keywords: stone soup, hearty soup, vegetable soup, comforting meal, folklore recipe, easy dinner, budget-friendly soup, family meal, vegan soup, adaptable soup