When it comes to hearty, wholesome comfort food, Mary Berry Vegetable Soup recipe stands in a league of its own. This vibrant, flavor-packed soup is a celebration of fresh, seasonal vegetables simmered in a rich, savory broth. Perfect for chilly evenings or as a light, nourishing meal any time of year, it’s a dish that brings warmth and satisfaction with every spoonful.

What sets Mary Berry’s Vegetable Soup apart is its simplicity and versatility. It’s an easy, fuss-free recipe that highlights the natural flavors of the vegetables while offering plenty of room for customization. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or preparing a quick family dinner, this soup is guaranteed to be a comforting favorite.

Recipe at a Glance

Here’s a quick snapshot of what to expect:

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4 bowls
Difficulty Level: Easy
Dietary Suitability: Vegetarian, Vegan (if using vegetable stock), Gluten-Free

Ingredients You’ll Need

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 large onion, finely chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
2 carrots, diced
2 celery sticks, sliced
1 large potato, peeled and cubed
1 courgette (zucchini), diced
1 red bell pepper, chopped
1 liter vegetable stock
400g can chopped tomatoes
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried basil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Substitutes and Optional Ingredients

Add Protein: Stir in cooked lentils, chickpeas, or beans for a heartier meal.
Swap Vegetables: Use whatever is in season—sweet potatoes, green beans, or peas work wonderfully.
Herbs: Fresh herbs like rosemary or oregano can be added for extra flavor.

Equipment You’ll Need for Vegetable Soup

Large pot or Dutch oven
Wooden spoon or ladle
Chopping board and sharp knife
Measuring cups and spoons

Mary Berry Vegetable Soup: Step-by-Step Guide

Time needed: 45 minutes

This simple soup comes together quickly with just a few steps.

Prepare the vegetables
Chop all your vegetables into even-sized pieces for uniform cooking.
Sauté the base
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
Add the hearty veggies
Stir in the carrots, celery, and potatoes. Cook for another 5 minutes to begin softening the vegetables.
Pour in the liquids
Add the chopped tomatoes and vegetable stock. Stir in the thyme, basil, salt, and pepper.
Simmer
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 20 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
Add quick-cooking veggies
Stir in the courgette and red bell pepper in the final 10 minutes of cooking to keep them from getting too soft.
Taste and serve
Adjust seasoning if needed. Ladle into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley, and enjoy.

Step-Specific Tips

Layer the flavors: Sautéing the onions and garlic first enhances the soup’s base flavor.
Don’t overcook: Add softer vegetables later to maintain their texture and color.
Blending Option: For a smoother soup, blend half the mixture and mix it back into the pot.

Nutrition Facts & Dietary Info

Mary Berry Vegetable Soup recipe makes 4 servings. Here’s the nutritional breakdown per serving:

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	150 kcal
Protein	4g
Carbohydrates	28g
Fat	4g
Fiber	6g
Sodium	600mg

Dietary Info: This soup is naturally vegetarian and vegan when using vegetable stock. It’s also gluten-free.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

Quick and Healthy: This soup comes together in under an hour and is packed with nutrients.
Customizable: You can easily adjust the ingredients based on what you have in your fridge or pantry.
Perfect for Meal Prep: It stores and reheats beautifully, making it ideal for batch cooking.

Pro Tips for Perfect Vegetable Soup

Use Seasonal Veggies: Swap in seasonal produce for the freshest, most flavorful results.
Don’t Skip the Herbs: Dried or fresh herbs add depth and warmth to the broth.
Add a Squeeze of Lemon: A touch of acidity at the end brightens the flavors.

Fun Variations & Ingredient Swaps

Make It Creamy: Stir in a splash of cream or coconut milk for a richer, creamier texture.
Spice It Up: Add a pinch of chili flakes or cayenne pepper for a bit of heat.
Grain Additions: Toss in cooked rice, quinoa, or small pasta shapes to make it more filling.

Avoid These Common Mistakes

Overcooking the Veggies: Keep an eye on softer vegetables like courgettes and peppers to prevent them from becoming mushy.
Underseasoning: Taste the soup as it cooks and adjust the salt and pepper as needed.
Skipping the Sauté: Don’t skip the initial sautéing step—it builds the base flavor of the soup.

How to Store & Serve Vegetable Soup

Storing

Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. The flavors deepen over time, making it even better the next day.
Freezing: Freeze in individual portions for up to 3 months. Defrost overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove.

Serving

As a Starter or Main: Serve with crusty bread for dipping or alongside a fresh salad.
Garnish Ideas: Top with a dollop of yogurt, a sprinkle of grated cheese, or fresh herbs for extra flavor.
Reheat: Gently reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to avoid sticking.

Mary Berry Vegetable Soup FAQs

Can I use frozen vegetables in this soup?

Absolutely! Frozen vegetables work well in this recipe. Just add them towards the end of cooking to avoid over-softening. They’re a convenient option, especially when you’re short on fresh produce.

How can I make this soup more filling?

To make the soup heartier, add cooked lentils, beans, or grains like rice or quinoa. You can also serve it with a hearty slice of bread or top it with grated cheese for added richness.

Can I blend the soup for a smoother texture?

Yes! If you prefer a creamy texture, blend all or part of the soup using an immersion blender. You can also blend half and leave the rest chunky for a combination of textures.

Conclusion

Mary Berry Vegetable Soup recipe is the perfect balance of comfort and nutrition. With its rich, flavorful broth and a medley of fresh vegetables, it’s a versatile recipe that’s easy to adapt to your taste and pantry. Whether you enjoy it as a light starter, a hearty meal, or a quick lunch, this soup is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Plus, it’s quick to make, easy to store, and even better the next day—what more could you ask for in a comforting bowl of soup?

Mary Berry Vegetable Soup Recipe