Heat the oil in a large soup pot over medium heat.
Add:
Onion
Carrots
Celery
Celeriac
Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally until lightly softened.
Stir in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
Step 2: Season
Sprinkle in the Hungarian paprika and stir quickly to coat the vegetables.
Immediately pour in the vegetable broth to prevent the paprika from burning.
Step 3: Add the Remaining Vegetables
Add:
Potatoes
Kohlrabi
Cabbage
Cauliflower
Bay leaves
Marjoram
Bring to a gentle boil.
Reduce the heat and simmer for 25–30 minutes, or until all the vegetables are tender.
Step 4: Finish the Soup
Season with salt and black pepper.
Stir in the chopped parsley and fresh dill, if using.
Simmer for another 2–3 minutes.
Remove the bay leaves before serving.
Tips for the Best Vegetable Soup
Use fresh, seasonal vegetables for the best flavor.
Avoid overcooking the vegetables to keep them vibrant and tender.
Fresh parsley adds a bright, authentic Hungarian touch.
A squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving can enhance the flavors.
Delicious Variations
Add Protein
Make the soup heartier by adding:
Cooked shredded chicken
Turkey
White beans
Chickpeas
Grain Version
Stir in cooked:
Rice
Barley
Small pasta
for a more filling meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with:
Crusty artisan bread
Buttered rye bread
Fresh cucumber salad
Sour cream (optional)
Pickled vegetables
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezing
Freeze in individual portions for up to 3 months.
Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stovetop.
Nutrition (Approximate Per Serving)
Calories: 180
Protein: 5 g
Carbohydrates: 28 g
Fat: 5 g
Fiber: 7 g
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen vegetables?
Yes. Frozen vegetables are a convenient alternative when fresh produce isn’t available. Adjust the cooking time as needed.
Can I make this soup vegan?
Yes! Simply use vegetable broth and avoid adding sour cream when serving.
What is kohlrabi?
Kohlrabi is a mild, slightly sweet vegetable from the cabbage family. It adds a delicate flavor and tender texture to soups and stews.
Final Thoughts
This Hungarian Summer Vegetable Soup (Nyári Zöldségleves) is a light, nourishing, and flavorful dish that celebrates the best of seasonal vegetables. Whether served as a simple lunch or a comforting dinner, it’s an easy one-pot recipe that’s both wholesome and satisfying. Fresh herbs, colorful vegetables, and a rich broth make every spoonful a taste of traditional Hungarian home cooking. 🥣🥕🥬🌿
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