Garden Patch Soup Recipe

The Joy of Seasonal Cooking

As summer fades and autumn approaches, many of us look forward to the comforting warmth of hearty soups and stews. Transitioning from light summer meals to rich, autumnal dishes allows us to enjoy produce at its peak freshness. Fall is a prime time for harvesting a variety of fruits and vegetables, making it the perfect season for creating delicious, one-pot meals like Garden Patch Soup.

A Beloved Recipe with a Rich History

For over 20 years, this Garden Patch Soup has been a staple at my restaurant, delighting customers every fall. The recipe's flexibility and robust flavor have made it a perennial favorite. Whether you prefer beef, chicken, pork, or a vegetarian version, this soup can be easily adapted to suit your preferences.

Nutritional Powerhouse

This soup is not only flavorful but also packed with nutrients. Vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, green beans, zucchini, and peppers provide essential vitamins and minerals. According to the USDA, a diet rich in vegetables can reduce the risk of chronic diseases and provide vital nutrients for overall health.

Recipe Variations

The beauty of this soup lies in its adaptability. You can substitute the beef with chicken or pork, or omit the meat entirely for a vegetarian version. Adding more beans or leftover chili can enhance the protein content, making it a hearty meal for everyone.

Garden Patch Soup Recipe

Preparation Time: 30 minutes | Serves: 8-10

Ingredients:

• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 quarts water
• 2 1/2 tablespoons Au jus seasoning mix (or to taste)
• 2 1/2 tablespoons taco seasoning mix
• 2 1/4 teaspoons chili powder
• 14-ounce can of tomatoes, chopped
• 7-ounce can tomato sauce
• 8 ounces whole kernel corn or 8-ounce can with liquid
• 3 cups of veggies (broccoli, cauliflower, green beans, zucchini, peppers, celery, or whatever you like and have available)
• 1/3 head cabbage (1 1/2 cups), coarsely chopped
• 8-ounce can kidney beans, drained and rinsed (or leftover chili)

Instructions:

1. Heat Water: Bring 2 quarts of water to a boil in a large soup pot.
2. Cook Meat and Onion: While the water is heating, brown the ground beef and chopped onion in a skillet.
3. Combine Ingredients: Once the water is boiling, add all the seasonings, chopped tomatoes, tomato sauce, corn (with liquid), beans, and your choice of vegetables.
4. Add Meat: Drain the meat mixture and add it to the soup pot.
5. Simmer: Bring the mixture back to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer until the vegetables are crisp-tender.
6. Add Cabbage: Stir in the chopped cabbage and remove the soup from the heat. Let it sit for a few minutes to allow the cabbage to cook through.
7. Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.

Enjoy the Bounty of Fall

This Garden Patch Soup is a wonderful way to celebrate the fall harvest. It's a dish that not only warms the body but also brings people together. Enjoy this recipe with your loved ones and savor the flavors of the season.

Interesting Stats

• Vegetable Consumption: According to the CDC, only 1 in 10 adults meet the federal fruit or vegetable recommendations. Incorporating soups like Garden Patch Soup can help increase vegetable intake.
• Health Benefits: A study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association found that a diet high in vegetables can reduce the risk of heart disease by up to 30%.

For more information on the benefits of a vegetable-rich diet, visit the CDC's website or the USDA's MyPlate.

Enjoy your Garden Patch Soup and the wonderful fall season!