Arbëreshë-style Vegetable Soup

Ingredients

In the original Croatian Bela juha, the soup is typically made with ingredients like potatoes, carrots, onions, and parsley root. However, in the Arbëreshë-style Vegetable Soup, we incorporate zucchini and tomatoes to add a touch of freshness and enhance the flavors. Additionally, the use of aromatic herbs like thyme is more prominent in the Arbëreshë version, giving the soup a distinct flavor profile. We alse have the original recipe for Bela juha, so you can check it out.

• 2 tablespoons olive oil 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, diced 1 onion, diced
• 2 carrots, diced 2 carrots, diced
• 2 potatoes, peeled and diced 2 potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 zucchini, diced 1 zucchini, diced
• 2 tomatoes, diced 2 tomatoes, diced
• 4 cups (950ml) vegetable broth 4 cups (950ml) vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 bay leaf 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper, to taste Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 180 kcal / 753 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 6g, 1g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 28g, 6g
• Protein: 4g
• Fiber: 5g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent.
2. 2.
   Add the diced carrots, potatoes, zucchini, and tomatoes to the pot. Stir well to combine.
3. 3.
   Pour in the vegetable broth and add the dried thyme and bay leaf. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. 4.
   Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
5. 5.
   Remove the bay leaf from the soup. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
6. 6.
   Ladle the Arbëreshë-style Vegetable Soup into bowls and garnish with fresh chopped parsley.
7. 7.
   Serve hot and enjoy!

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Zucchini — Make sure to dice the zucchini into small, uniform pieces to ensure even cooking.
• Tomatoes — If fresh tomatoes are not available, you can use canned diced tomatoes as a substitute. Drain the excess liquid before adding them to the soup.

Tips & Tricks

• For a heartier version, you can add cooked beans, such as cannellini or chickpeas, to the soup.
• Feel free to adjust the seasoning according to your taste preferences. You can add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a hint of spiciness.
• Serve the soup with a side of crusty bread for a complete meal.

Serving advice

Serve the Arbëreshë-style Vegetable Soup as a comforting main course. Accompany it with a side of crusty bread or a fresh green salad for a satisfying and wholesome meal.

Presentation advice

Garnish each bowl of soup with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley to add a pop of color. Serve the soup in rustic ceramic bowls for an authentic and inviting presentation.