Pork and vegetable soup is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug in a bowl. The savory richness of pork, combined with the fresh, crisp vegetables, creates a comforting, hearty meal that fills you up without weighing you down. Whether you’re craving something quick and easy or looking for a meal that can feed a crowd, this soup ticks all the boxes.
The beauty of this dish lies in its versatility. You can throw in just about any vegetable you have on hand, and the flavors will come together beautifully. Plus, the pork adds a wonderful depth of flavor, making it a great option for a family dinner or meal prep. Let’s dive in and explore this easy-to-make recipe.
Pork And Vegetable Soup Recipe
This pork and vegetable soup is simple to make yet bursting with flavor. The tender pork combined with a medley of colorful vegetables creates a delicious, comforting meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients Needed
Here’s what you’ll need to gather before diving into cooking this delicious soup:
- Pork (shoulder, loin, or stew meat) – About 1 to 1.5 pounds of boneless pork, cut into bite-sized chunks.
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Vegetables – A variety of fresh veggies will add flavor and texture to your soup:
- 1 onion, diced
- 2-3 carrots, sliced or diced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 3-4 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 bell pepper, chopped (optional)
- 1 zucchini, sliced (optional)
- 1 cup of green beans or peas
- Garlic – 2-3 cloves of minced garlic for that lovely aromatic base.
- Tomatoes – 1 can (14.5 oz) of diced tomatoes (for a little acidity and depth).
- Broth – 4 cups of chicken broth or vegetable broth (you can also use pork broth if available).
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Herbs & Spices – A mix of:
- 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon of dried rosemary
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Olive oil – For sautéing the pork and veggies to develop flavor.
- Fresh parsley – Optional, for garnish.
Cooking Instructions
Let’s walk through the cooking process step by step, so you get the best results:
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Sear The Pork
- Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
- Once the oil is hot, add the chunks of pork, seasoning with salt and pepper. Sear them until browned on all sides (about 5-7 minutes). This step helps lock in the flavor and gives the pork that crispy edge.
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Sauté The Vegetables
- Once the pork is browned, remove it from the pot and set it aside. In the same pot, add the diced onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Cook them for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until they soften and become fragrant.
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Add The Rest Of The Ingredients
- Add the cubed potatoes, chopped bell pepper, zucchini, and green beans. Stir everything together.
- Pour in the diced tomatoes (with their juice) and the broth. Add the dried thyme, rosemary, bay leaf, and a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.
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Simmer The Soup
- Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for 45 minutes to an hour, stirring occasionally. The soup is done when the pork is tender, and the vegetables are cooked through.
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Finish And Serve
- Taste the soup and adjust seasoning as needed. Remove the bay leaf before serving.
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
Ingredient Insights
Each ingredient in this soup brings something special to the table:
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Pork
- Pork shoulder is ideal because it’s flavorful and becomes tender as it cooks. If you opt for pork loin, it’s leaner but still works well in soups. The pork adds a savory richness and depth to the broth that other meats can’t quite match.
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Vegetables
- Carrots and celery provide a base of sweetness and texture that balance out the savory meat. Potatoes add a hearty, starchy element, while the zucchini and bell pepper bring freshness and lightness. Green beans or peas add a pop of color and a mild sweetness.
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Herbs And Spices
- Thyme and rosemary are classic companions to pork, enhancing its natural flavors. A bay leaf adds a subtle depth, while garlic rounds out the savory taste of the broth. The tomatoes contribute a slight tang, making the soup more complex and comforting.
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Broth
- Using a good-quality broth is key to bringing out the flavors of the soup. Chicken broth adds a richness that complements the pork, but vegetable broth works just as well if you prefer a lighter taste.
Expert Tips
Here are a few pro tips to elevate your pork and vegetable soup:
- Brown the Pork Well: Don’t rush the searing process. A good sear on the pork adds flavor that infuses the entire soup.
- Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs can make a big difference. If you have fresh rosemary or thyme, use them instead of dried for a more aromatic, vibrant flavor.
- Add Veggies at the Right Time: If you’re using more delicate vegetables like spinach or peas, add them towards the end of cooking. Adding them too early can cause them to overcook and lose their texture.
- Make it Richer: For a richer soup, you can add a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of sour cream before serving. This makes the broth a little creamy and extra comforting.
- Let it Rest: Soup often tastes better the next day. If you have time, let it sit for a few hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld together.
Recipe Variations
This soup is incredibly adaptable, and you can easily switch up ingredients based on what you have in your kitchen or your personal preferences:
- Spicy Pork and Veggie Soup: Add some chopped jalapeños, red pepper flakes, or a dash of hot sauce to give the soup a spicy kick.
- Sweet Potato: Swap out regular potatoes for sweet potatoes for a bit of sweetness and a healthier twist.
- Leafy Greens: Add a handful of spinach, kale, or Swiss chard to give the soup a nutritional boost.
- Beans: Add a can of white beans, such as cannellini or Great Northern, for extra protein and texture.
- Pasta: Throw in some small pasta (like elbow macaroni or ditalini) for a more filling soup.
Final Words
Pork and vegetable soup is the definition of comfort food. It’s simple, hearty, and bursting with flavor. The combination of tender pork and a variety of fresh vegetables makes this dish both satisfying and nutritious. Plus, the fact that it’s so adaptable means you can make it your own every time.
FAQs
What Ingredients Do I Need For A Pork And Vegetable Soup Recipe?
To make a basic pork and vegetable soup, you will need pork (either shoulder or loin), carrots, potatoes, onions, garlic, celery, tomatoes, vegetable broth, and seasoning such as salt, pepper, thyme, and bay leaves. You can also include additional vegetables like peas, green beans, or corn.
How Do I Prepare The Pork For The Soup?
Start by cutting the pork into bite-sized cubes. You can either brown the pork in a skillet before adding it to the soup for extra flavor, or you can add it directly to the pot with the other vegetables and broth.
Can I Use Frozen Vegetables In A Pork And Vegetable Soup?
Yes, frozen vegetables can be used in a pork and vegetable soup. They are convenient and can work just as well as fresh vegetables. Just be sure to add them later in the cooking process so they don’t become too soft.
How Long Should I Cook The Pork And Vegetable Soup?
The soup should be simmered for about 1 to 1.5 hours on the stove to allow the flavors to meld and the pork to become tender. If you’re using a slow cooker, cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours.
Can I Use A Slow Cooker For This Pork And Vegetable Soup Recipe?
Yes, a slow cooker is a great way to make pork and vegetable soup. Simply brown the pork if desired, then add all ingredients to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours. The low-and-slow cooking method will make the pork tender and the flavors rich.
What Are Some Variations I Can Add To The Pork And Vegetable Soup?
You can add ingredients like beans (e.g., kidney beans or white beans), leafy greens (such as spinach or kale), or different herbs like rosemary or oregano. You can also adjust the broth by using chicken or beef stock instead of vegetable broth for a different flavor.
How Do I Make The Pork And Vegetable Soup Thicker?
To make the soup thicker, you can add a thickening agent like a cornstarch slurry (mix 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water) or mash some of the potatoes in the soup. Another option is to blend a portion of the soup using an immersion blender.
Can I Use Pork Sausage In This Soup Recipe?
Yes, you can use pork sausage in place of regular pork. It will add a bit more flavor and spice to the soup, depending on the type of sausage you choose (mild, spicy, Italian, etc.). Brown the sausage first before adding it to the soup for the best results.
What Can I Serve With Pork And Vegetable Soup?
Pork and vegetable soup pairs well with a variety of sides. You can serve it with crusty bread, a fresh green salad, or a light sandwich. If you prefer something heartier, try pairing it with rice, crackers, or a baked potato.
How Do I Store And Reheat Leftover Pork And Vegetable Soup?
Store the leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat or in the microwave. If the soup has thickened too much in the fridge, add a little broth or water to thin it out while reheating.