Why the Spicy Vegetable Soup Is Great For Burning Fat
When you’re looking to shed some pounds, the Spicy Vegetable Soup stands out as a fantastic option.
I love it because it’s packed with fiber-rich veggies that keep me full without loading up on calories. The spiciness from the chili powder not only adds flavor but can also boost my metabolism.
Plus, the combination of ingredients makes it satisfying, so I don’t feel deprived. Each spoonful feels hearty, yet it’s light enough to enjoy without guilt.
It’s become a staple in my kitchen, helping me stay on track with my weight loss goals while still indulging in something delicious.
Ingredients of Spicy Vegetable Soup
When it comes to making a warm and comforting bowl of Spicy Vegetable Soup, the first step is gathering all those vibrant ingredients. The beauty of this soup lies in its versatility; you can mix and match veggies based on what you have on hand or what’s in season.
It’s all about creating that perfect blend of flavors and textures. Plus, did I mention how good it smells while cooking? Just thinking about it makes my stomach rumble. Let’s explore what you’ll need for this delightful dish.
Ingredients for Spicy Vegetable Soup:
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 diced onion
- 5 potatoes (about 2 cups diced)
- 2 carrots (about 1 cup diced)
- Celery (about 1 cup chopped)
- 14 1/2 ounces green beans
- 2 cups frozen corn
- 8 ounces fresh spinach
- 14 1/2 ounces petite diced tomatoes
- 10 ounces Ro-Tel diced tomatoes with peppers
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 2 bay leaves
- 6 – 8 cups chicken stock or beef stock
Now, let’s chat a bit about these ingredients. You might be wondering, “Can I swap out the green beans for something else?” Absolutely! That’s one of the beauties of soup.
If you have broccoli or zucchini lying around, toss it in. And if you’re not a fan of spice, feel free to dial back on the chili powder or even leave it out. It’s all about making this soup your own.
And as for the stock, you can go with chicken or beef, but if you want a vegetarian version, just use vegetable stock. The more personalized you make it, the more you’ll love it.
How to Make Spicy Vegetable Soup
Making Spicy Vegetable Soup is like wrapping yourself in a warm, cozy blanket on a chilly day. It starts with 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil, which you’ll want to heat in a large stock pot over medium heat. Once that oil is shimmering, toss in 1 diced onion. The sizzle is music to your ears, right? Stir that around until it softens, about 3-4 minutes.
Then it’s time to get those veggies in action. Grab 5 potatoes (that’s about 2 cups diced), 2 carrots (about 1 cup diced), and some celery (about 1 cup chopped). Add those to the pot, along with 2 teaspoons of chili powder, 1 teaspoon of garlic salt, 1 teaspoon of black pepper, and 2 teaspoons of salt. Stir everything together, letting those flavors mingle and dance until the veggies start to soften, about 10 minutes or so.
Now, let’s add some color and nutrition to our pot. Toss in 14 1/2 ounces of green beans, 2 cups of frozen corn, and 8 ounces of fresh spinach. Don’t forget the star players: 14 1/2 ounces of petite diced tomatoes and 10 ounces of Ro-Tel diced tomatoes with peppers. Oh, the aroma is already divine.
To bring it all together, pour in 6 to 8 cups of chicken or beef stock—depending on your mood—and add a splash of water if it looks too thick. Bring everything to a boil, and then reduce the heat to let it simmer for 2 to 3 hours. Yes, I said hours. Patience is key here, but you’ll be rewarded with a bowl of warmth and comfort.
For the last hour of simmering, cover the pot with a lid to keep those delicious flavors trapped inside. And just like that, you’ve crafted a delightful Spicy Vegetable Soup that will warm you from the inside out.
Spicy Vegetable Soup Substitutions & Variations For Low Carb Diets
If you’re looking to enjoy a hearty bowl of Spicy Vegetable Soup while keeping things low carb, there are plenty of simple substitutions you can make.
Swap out potatoes for cauliflower or zucchini to reduce carbs without sacrificing flavor. Instead of corn, try adding more green beans or bell peppers for extra crunch.
You can also replace the frozen spinach with fresh kale, which packs a nutritional punch. For protein, consider adding shredded chicken or turkey.
Finally, feel free to adjust the spices to your liking, ensuring every spoonful is both satisfying and guilt-free! Enjoy experimenting!
What to Serve with Spicy Vegetable Soup
What pairs perfectly with a warm bowl of Spicy Vegetable Soup? I love serving it alongside crusty bread, like a hearty sourdough or a soft baguette.
The bread’s texture complements the soup’s warmth and spice. You could also add a fresh side salad, tossed with a light vinaigrette for a rejuvenating contrast.
If you’re in the mood for something heartier, grilled cheese sandwiches are a classic choice that never disappoints.
For a bit of crunch, some tortilla chips can add a delightful twist. Each option enhances the soup experience, making every bite more enjoyable!
Additional Tips To Decrease Calories
Serving Spicy Vegetable Soup with sides like crusty bread or grilled cheese can be delicious, but those options can add extra calories.
To keep your meal lighter, I suggest swapping out heavy sides for a fresh salad or steamed vegetables. You can also reduce the amount of oil when sautéing the onion—try using a non-stick pan or vegetable broth instead.
Additionally, consider using low-sodium chicken or vegetable stock. If you like your soup spicier, add more chili powder instead of cheese or cream.
These simple adjustments can make a big difference without sacrificing flavor. Enjoy your healthier version!