Meal-Prep: Delicious Veggie-Rich Soups for the Whole Family

Meal prepping can be a true lifesaver for new moms. By planning and preparing meals in advance, you can significantly reduce daily stress and free up valuable time for self-care. Instead of scrambling to make meals every day, you have nutritious options ready to go, which is crucial for maintaining both your physical and mental well-being. This not only ensures that you and your family eat healthily but also gives you more time to relax, rest, or engage in activities that rejuvenate you.

Prepping healthy meals is an act of self-care. It’s a way to prioritize your health and well-being amidst the demands of motherhood. Knowing that you have wholesome, delicious meals prepared can provide peace of mind and allow you to focus on other important aspects of your day, such as bonding with your baby or taking a moment for yourself.

Here are two veggie-rich soups that are easy to prepare and perfect for the whole family, including your toddler.

Tomato Soup with Beef Meatballs

This hearty tomato soup is a family favorite in our house. It’s packed with flavor and super easy to make.

Ingredients:

• 5 large ripe tomatoes

• 3 cloves of garlic

• 300 ml to 1 liter (1.25 to 4 cups) of bone broth (chicken or beef)

• 1 teaspoon of onion powder

• 1 teaspoon of garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon of (smoked) paprika powder

• Olive oil

• 500 grams (1.1 lbs) of beef meatballs

Instructions:

1. Prep the Tomatoes and Garlic: Quarter the tomatoes and peel and crush the garlic. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with onion powder, garlic powder, and paprika powder.

2. Roast: Place in the oven at 200°C (400°F) for about 30-60 minutes until they are sizzling and slightly browned.

3. Brown the Meatballs: Lightly brown the meatballs in a pan.

4. Blend the Soup: Add half of the bone broth to the roasted tomatoes and garlic. Use a stick blender to puree until smooth. Continue to add bone broth until you reach your desired consistency.

5. Simmer: Add the meatballs to the soup and let it simmer for about 3 minutes.

6. Pro Tip: Leave the soup overnight in the fridge to deepen the flavors.

Chicken, Mushroom, and Noodle Soup

This soup is a wonderful blend of flavors and textures. It’s perfect for a cozy family dinner.

Ingredients:

• 3 cm (1.2 inches) of fresh ginger

• 2 cloves of garlic

• 4-6 spring onions

• 250 grams (8.8 oz) of mushrooms

• 1 lime

• 500 grams (1.1 lbs) of chicken filet blocks or shrimp

• 150 grams (5.3 oz) noodles of choice

• 2 tablespoons of tomato paste

• 1 teaspoon of pepper or red pepper

• 200 ml (0.85 cups) of coconut milk

• 500 ml to 1 liter (2 to 4 cups) of chicken bone broth

• 5-6 tablespoons of soy sauce

• A small bunch of cilantro

Instructions:

1. Prep the Ingredients: Skin the ginger and garlic, then mince them. Clean and slice the mushrooms.

2. Cook the Aromatics: Heat a pan on medium/high heat and sauté the ginger and garlic for 2 minutes. Add the mushrooms and continue to cook for about 4 minutes.

3. Add Tomato Paste: Stir in the tomato paste and cook for another 2 minutes.

4. Add Liquids: Pour in the coconut milk, soy sauce, and bone broth. Mix well.

5. Simmer: Add half of the cilantro and let the soup simmer for about 30 minutes.

6. Cook the Noodles: Depending on the type of noodles, add them to the soup so they are ready when you serve.

7. Serve: Chop the spring onions, remaining cilantro, and lime. Add them to the bowls just before serving for a fresh and vibrant finish.

These soups are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients that are great for the whole family. Enjoy making and sharing these comforting bowls of goodness with your loved ones!