Begin by chopping and dicing all of the veggies. You really can use any vegetables preferred. You don't have to use all of the vegetables I've listed above but can mix and match to suit personal preferences. I did use all of the above in my version.
Next, set the Instant Pot to Saute and add the diced onion and approximately 1/4 cup veggie broth. Cook, stirring occasionally until the onion begins to brown in about 5 minutes.
Add the rest of the veggie broth and scrape up the brown parts from the bottom.
Next, add the tomato paste and combine well. Make sure the paste dissolves into the broth well. Then, add all of the other ingredients.
Put the lid on your pot, turn the valve to Sealing, and select Manual. Set for 7 minutes of cooking time.
Once it finishes cooking, let the pressure release naturally for 15 minutes. After that time, turn the valve to Vent to release the rest of the pressure before opening.
Adjust seasonings such as salt and pepper (and even the others) to taste preferences if needed. Remove the bay leaves before serving.
Try serving this with my Cornbread recipe for a full hearty meal.
Stovetop Instructions:
This recipe can alternatively be made on the stovetop by simply sauteeing the onions and garlic in about 1/3 cup veggie broth in a large stockpot.
Then add all other ingredients and allow to simmer on medium-high heat for approximately 30 minutes.
Crockpot Instructions:
Place all ingredients in a crockpot and allow the soup to cook on HIGH for approximately 5 hours or set to LOW for about 8 hours.
Video
Notes
Detailed instructions,in-process photos, and my personal helpful tips can be found in the article above.Your Instant Pot Questions Answered:
Q: How long do you cook vegetable soup in an Instant Pot? For this recipe, I found that 7 minutes on Manual with a 15-minute natural release was perfect for cooking the potatoes and other veggies. If you want to speed up that time, you could cook for about 12 minutes and to a fast release.
Q: Can you freeze this soup? Yes, this soup freezes well. Just allow it to cool and place it in an airtight container before freezing.
Q: How much liquid do you put in an Instant Pot for soup? For about 6 servings, I add approximately 5 cups of veggie broth plus a can of fire-roasted tomatoes including the juice.