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With vegetable soup still maintaining its reputation as being a classic comfort food, there is always room for a bit of a refresh. For those days when you need an explosion of flavor and a hearty meal without hours in the kitchen, freekeh vegetable soup is the perfect choice.
Hailing from the Middle East, freekeh is a type of processed green wheat with a distinct smoky taste and a chewy texture. It is a form of whole wheat that is harvested before it is fully ripened, then it’s toasted and dried for a delicious flavor. When used for soup, it’s combined with vegetables including carrots, celery, onion, and tomatoes, as well as herbs and spices. This combination creates a soup that is not only densely packed with flavor, but exceedingly healthy too.
Full of nutrition, freekeh vegetable soup also provides a great source of fiber and protein, helping you to feel fuller for longer while also aiding digestion. But it is not all about nutrition; with its unique smoky flavor, freekeh soup has a piquant character that lifts soups out of the realm of ordinary.
When making freekeh vegetable soup, it’s a good idea to allow enough time for the vegetables to soften properly, as this will ensure all of their natural flavors are brought out. Any type of vegetables can be used depending on your preferences, but using fresh organic vegetables is highly recommended. Tomatoes, celery, carrots and onions make up the most popular combination for vegetable soup; pairing nicely with the chewy texture of the freekeh, as well as its smoky flavor.
Freekeh vegetable soup can be served with a variety of accompaniments, including grilled cheese and crusty bread, adding the perfect balance to this rich meal. And what’s more, it can be re-heated and enjoyed over a couple of days, leaving you with a nourishing and wholesome meal that can be enjoyed whenever you’re in need of a comforting and delicious meal. Plant-based diets have been gaining popularity in recent years and for good reason – they are healthy, delicious, and so easy to make. One of our favorite plant-based dishes is freekeh vegetable soup. Freekeh is an ancient grain made from wheat, and it’s high in protein, fiber, and minerals. It’s also gluten-free, so it’s perfect for those with gluten intolerance or sensitivities. The soup itself is an incredibly simple yet flavorful combination of freekeh, vegetables, and herbs. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed both hot and cold – whatever the season brings.
The best thing about this soup is that it’s so simple to prepare. All you need to do is soak the freekeh overnight (or up to two days). This makes it more digestible and also helps to reduce cooking time. Once the freekeh is soaked, drain it and add it to your soup pot with some water. Cook the freekeh for about 30-45 minutes, or until it’s soft and tender.
Meanwhile, prepare your vegetable mix. We like to use a combination of onion, celery, carrots, and mushrooms. Feel free to add whatever vegetables you prefer. Once the vegetables are chopped and added to the pot, you can also add spices (such as chili powder, curry powder, garlic, etc.). Cook the vegetables for about 10-15 minutes, or until they are soft and tender.
Once the freekeh and vegetables are cooked, slowly stir in some vegetable or beef broth. You can also add some cooked beans or chickpeas for an extra boost of protein. Cook everything for about 5 minutes, and then add some fresh herbs for extra flavor. Lastly, you can top the soup with some freshly grated parmesan cheese or crumbled feta cheese for a creamy and rich finish.
Freekeh vegetable soup is such a great option for lunch or dinner – it’s simple to make, tastes delicious, and is packed with nutrition. What more could you want? So, if you are looking to enjoy a flavorful and nutritious bowl of soup, give freekeh vegetable soup a try.