Detox vegetable soup

As the winter chill sets in, there's nothing more comforting than a steaming bowl of hearty soup to warm the body and soul.

This Detox Vegetable Soup not only satisfies the taste buds but also provides plenty of health benefits. Bursting with nutrient-rich ingredients like cabbage, ginger, mushrooms, potatoes, carrots, celery, onions, curcuma, cayenne, and a splash of lemon, this soup is a nutritional powerhouse that can help revitalize your body during the colder months.

Food as medicine

I can’t mention it enough, but when you start to see "food as medicine", eating healthier will become easier. Each whole food is a unique source of potent nutrients that can serve as a powerful ally in boosting immunity and strengthening the body.

The nutrients in whole foods play a crucial role in supporting our bodies' natural defenses. A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and other plant-based ingredients provides an abundance of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and other bioactive compounds, collectively contributing to overall health and well-being.

To help you prepare meals with whole foods that contribute to overall health and well-being, we explain what each ingredient in this Detox Vegetable Soup can do for your health.

Cabbage - The Cruciferous Wonder:

Cabbage, a key ingredient in this detox soup, belongs to the cruciferous vegetable family known for its powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Rich in vitamins C and K, cabbage aids in immune support and bone health, making it an ideal choice during the flu season.

Ginger - The Immune Booster:

Adding a zing to the soup is ginger, well known for its immune-boosting properties. Ginger contains gingerol, a bioactive compound with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, making it a valuable friend in maintaining overall health.

Mushrooms - A Nutrient-Packed Fungus:

Mushrooms contribute a savory depth to the soup while providing essential nutrients like vitamin D, selenium, and antioxidants. These elements bolster the immune system and support cellular health, making mushrooms a great addition to any winter dish.

Potatoes and Carrots - Hearty and Vitamin-Rich:

Potatoes and carrots bring heartiness to the soup, supplying essential vitamins and minerals like potassium and beta-carotene. These root vegetables not only add a comforting texture but also promote skin health and vision.

Celery and Onions - Aromatic Duo:

Celery and onions not only enhance the flavor of the soup but also contribute to the detoxification process. Celery is known for its hydrating properties and contains antioxidants, while onions boast sulfur compounds that aid in the body's natural detoxification mechanisms.

Bay Leaves - Aromatic Herb with Health Benefits:

Bay leaves infuse the soup with a subtle aromatic flavor and offer various health benefits. They contain essential oils and compounds that possess anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties, promoting overall well-being.

Curcuma - The Golden Elixir:

Curcuma, commonly known as turmeric, brings a burst of golden color and a wealth of health benefits. Curcumin, the active compound in turmeric, is renowned for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, supporting joint health and reducing inflammation.

Cayenne - Spicy Kick with Metabolic Boost:

Cayenne adds a spicy kick to the soup, helping to boost metabolism and improve circulation.

Squeezed Lemon - Vitamin C Boost:

A finishing touch of squeezed lemon not only brightens the flavor but also provides a dose of vitamin C. This citrus powerhouse supports immune health and aids in the absorption of iron from plant-based sources.

Why eat this Detox Vegetable Soup in Winter?

Immune Support: The combination of vitamin-rich ingredients fortifies the immune system, helping the body fend off winter illnesses.


Hydration: The broth-based soup keeps you well-hydrated, combating the dry winter air and supporting overall well-being.


Detoxification: The diverse array of vegetables aids the body's natural detoxification processes, helping to eliminate toxins and promote a healthy internal balance.


Satiety and Weight Management: The fiber-rich content of the soup promotes a feeling of fullness, making it an excellent choice for those looking to manage their weight during the winter months.


Anti-Inflammatory Properties: The presence of anti-inflammatory ingredients like ginger, turmeric, and cayenne can help alleviate winter-induced joint pain and inflammation.


Treat yourself well this winter, incorporate this soup into your winter menu to nourish your body, boost your immune system, and enjoy the satisfying warmth it brings on cold days.

Detox Vegetable Soup

This Detox Vegetable Soup is a nutritional powerhouse to support your overall health and well-being.

Prep time: 10 mins
cook time: 30 mins
total time: 40 mins

Servings: 4
Course: Lunch/Diner

Ingredients:

• 1/4 cabbage
  
• 2 cm ginger grated or more if you wish
  
• 150 grams mushrooms (any you like)
  
• 1 potato
  
• 2 large carrots
  
• 3 cellery stems
  
• 2 onions
  
• 1 1/2 liter vegetable broth (preferable natural, but 3 broth cubes with water will do it too)
  
• parsley
  
• bay leave
  
• curcuma
  
• cayenne
  
• squeeze of 1/2 a lemon
  

Instructions:

1. Chop the onions but not too fine. Bring some olive oil to a heat in a large soup pot and add the onions. Let the flavors open up a little before you add the vegetables.
   
   
2. Add the vegetables to the soup pot, but wait with the mushrooms (they are quickly cooked compared to the other vegetables)
   
   
3. Crush the ginger (you can do this with a garlic press) above the pot and mix it with the vegetables. Add a bit of curcuma and cayenne. Mix it all and let the spices infuse with the flavors of the vegetables. Add the mushrooms. Season with pepper and salt.
   
   
4. Add 3 bay leaves and pour the vegetable (or meat) broth. Add a squeeze of half a lemon and stirr. Let it cook for about 30 minutes covered with a lid.
   
   
5. Before serving add chopped herbs, like parsley, coriander or chives