Stomach-Soothing Vegetable Soup

Instructions:

1. Sauté the Vegetables:
   • Heat sunflower oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
   • Add the sliced onions and cook until translucent.
   • Add the minced garlic and sliced leek, cooking for a few more minutes until fragrant.
2. Cook the Veggies:
   • Add the diced carrots and chopped zucchini to the pan.
   • Pour in enough water to cover the vegetables, then cover the pan with a lid and let it simmer for 15 minutes.
3. Add Broccoli and Ginger:
   • Stir in the chopped broccoli and freshly grated ginger.
   • Cook until the vegetables are tender.
4. Incorporate Cheese:
   • Add the grated processed cheese, salt, and cayenne pepper.
   • Continue to cook for another 5 minutes until the cheese is melted.
5. Blend the Soup:
   • Use an immersion blender to blend the soup until smooth. Alternatively, you can blend it in batches using a countertop blender.
6. Prepare the Bread:
   • Brush the bread slices with olive oil and season with salt, onion powder, dried garlic, and cayenne pepper.
   • Toast the bread slices until golden brown.
7. Serve:
   • Garnish the soup with chopped fresh dill.
   • Serve with the toasted, seasoned bread.

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Therapeutic Benefits:

• Anti-Inflammatory: Ginger and garlic have natural anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe an upset stomach.
• Nutrient Dense: This soup is packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants from a variety of fresh vegetables.

Delicious and Satisfying:

• The soup’s creamy texture, thanks to the processed cheese, and the fragrant flavors of garlic and ginger make it both comforting and flavorful.

Quick and Easy:

• Ideal for a weeknight dinner, this soup requires just a few simple ingredients and steps, making it perfect for busy days or meal prepping.

Recipe Breakdown:

• Onions and Leeks: Provide a sweet, flavorful base for the soup.
• Garlic and Ginger: Add warming, immune-boosting properties.
• Broccoli, Carrots, and Zucchini: Offer a range of nutrients, including vitamins A, C, and K, and add texture and flavor.
• Processed Cheese: Gives the soup a rich, creamy consistency.
• Seasoned Toasted Bread: Adds a crispy contrast and extra flavor.

Kitchen Tips:

• Sautéing: Properly sautéing the onions, leeks, garlic, and ginger lays a flavorful foundation for the soup.
• Blending: Adjust the soup’s consistency by blending fully or partially, depending on your preference.

Serving Suggestions:

• Main Course: Serve as a hearty main dish with toasted, seasoned bread.
• Appetizer: Offer smaller servings as a starter for a multi-course meal.
• Make-Ahead: Prepare a large batch and store it in the fridge or freezer for quick, nutritious meals throughout the week.

Dietary Benefits:

• Digestive Health: Ginger and garlic promote digestive well-being.
• Fiber-Rich: Vegetables add fiber, aiding digestion and satiety.
• Vitamins and Minerals: Provides essential nutrients for overall health.