• 1 tablespoon paprika (for a smoky flavor)
  • Salt and black pepper (to taste)
  • Fresh dill (a small bunch, chopped for garnish)
  • 1.5 liters of vegetable broth or water (you can adjust based on the desired consistency)
  • A drizzle of olive oil (for sautéing)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

Start by prepping all your ingredients. This is the key to making this recipe quick and easy:

  • Leek: Cut off the root end of the leek and slice it into thin rings. Make sure to wash it well, as leeks often have dirt trapped between their layers.
  • Carrots: Peel the carrots and slice them into rounds or half-moons, depending on your preference.
  • Celery: Chop the celery stalks into small, bite-sized pieces.
  • Bell Pepper: Cut the bell pepper in half, remove the seeds, and dice it into small cubes.
  • Potatoes: Peel and chop the potatoes into small cubes, ensuring they’re similar in size for even cooking.
  • Garlic: Peel and finely chop or mince the garlic cloves.
  • Dill: Finely chop the fresh dill for garnishing the soup later.

Having everything prepared beforehand will make the cooking process smoother and faster.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot, heat about 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is warm, begin by sautéing the leek. Stir occasionally for about 3-4 minutes until the leek becomes tender and slightly translucent.

Next, add the carrots, celery, and bell pepper to the pot. Stir everything together and cook for another 5 minutes. This step brings out the natural sweetness of the vegetables and enhances the flavor profile of the soup.

Step 3: Add Garlic and Seasonings

Once the vegetables are soft and fragrant, add the minced garlic to the pot and sauté for another 1-2 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the garlic becomes aromatic but doesn’t burn.

Now, it’s time to season the soup. Add 1 tablespoon of paprika (which will give the soup a rich, smoky depth of flavor), along with salt and black pepper to taste. Stir to combine all the ingredients, allowing the spices to coat the vegetables evenly.

Step 4: Add the Potatoes and Broth

Now that your base is nicely sautéed and seasoned, it’s time to add the potatoes. Toss them into the pot, and give everything a good stir.

Next, pour in 1.5 liters of vegetable broth (or water, if you prefer). The broth will give the soup a deeper flavor, but water works as a great alternative for a lighter version. Bring the mixture to a boil.

Step 5: Simmer the Soup

Once the soup is boiling, reduce the heat to low, allowing it to simmer for about 25-30 minutes. The potatoes should be tender and cooked through, and the flavors will have melded together beautifully. Stir occasionally and check the seasoning—add more salt, pepper, or paprika as needed.

If you prefer a thicker soup, you can mash some of the potatoes with a spoon or a potato masher to create a creamy texture. Otherwise, keep the soup as is for a brothier version.

Step 6: Final Adjustments

Once the soup has simmered to perfection, give it a final taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. If you want a bit more heat, you can sprinkle in a little extra paprika or pepper. For a fresh kick, you can also squeeze in a bit of lemon juice at this stage (optional).

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

To serve, ladle the hot soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped dill. The dill adds a lovely herby fragrance and a touch of brightness to the comforting, savory soup. You can serve it with a slice of rustic bread or a sprinkle of grated cheese if you like.

Why This Soup is So Special

There’s a reason why this recipe has been passed down through generations—it’s simple, nourishing, and packed with flavors. Here’s why this comforting soup stands out:

  1. Wholesome Ingredients: The combination of leeks, carrots, celery, bell pepper, potatoes, and garlic provides a balanced mix of vegetables, making the soup rich in vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants.

  2. Flavorful and Satisfying: Despite being a simple vegetable soup, the paprika, garlic, and dill infuse the broth with so much depth and character, ensuring that every spoonful is deliciously satisfying.

  3. Easy to Make: This soup doesn’t require complicated techniques or hard-to-find ingredients. It’s a one-pot dish that’s easy to prepare and allows you to enjoy a comforting meal with minimal effort.

  4. Versatile: You can easily adapt this soup to your tastes by adding or substituting vegetables. Add parsnips, zucchini, or green beans for more variety. You can even add a protein like beans, chicken, or sausage to make it heartier.

  5. Perfect for All Seasons: While it’s particularly comforting on a cold winter’s day, this soup can be enjoyed year-round. The fresh dill makes it perfect for spring and summer, and the warmth of the broth makes it great for colder months.

Conclusion

This delicious and comforting vegetable soup is a true representation of how simple ingredients can come together to create something extraordinary. With the fresh vegetables, aromatic spices, and nourishing broth, it’s a meal that both warms and satisfies. Whether you’re craving comfort after a long day or need a healthy meal to fuel you, this soup is sure to become a family favorite. I can personally attest to how much love and care went into preparing this recipe in my home, and I’m excited for you to try it and experience the same warmth and comfort.

So, the next time you want to cook something easy, tasty, and hearty, give this simple soup a try—and you’ll see why it’s a dish my mother and I have cherished for so many years!