Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Hearty Instant Pot Tomato Vegetable Medley?
It is a vibrant, nourishing winter soup made with a tomato base, a variety of frozen vegetables, herbs, and cooked pasta, designed to be healthy and filling.
How long do I pressure cook this soup?
The soup should be cooked on HIGH pressure for 6 minutes.
Do I need to release the pressure immediately after cooking?
No, you should allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes before using the quick release valve for any remaining steam.
Can I use a different oil than grapeseed oil?
Yes, you can substitute grapeseed oil with other high-heat oils like olive oil or avocado oil for sautéing the vegetables.
What is Vegeta seasoning?
Vegeta is a versatile all-purpose seasoning blend typically containing salt, dehydrated vegetables, and spices that adds a robust savory flavor to the soup.
Do I add the pasta before or after pressure cooking?
The pasta should be pre-cooked and added after the pressure cooking cycle is complete and the lid is opened.
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
While the recipe calls for beef and chicken broth, you can easily make it vegetarian by substituting them with an equal amount of vegetable broth.
When should I add the frozen chopped spinach?
Add the frozen chopped spinach at the very end, after opening the lid, along with the cooked pasta.
How much garlic does this recipe require?
The recipe calls for 4 minced garlic cloves.
What vegetables are included in the 'frozen mixed vegetables' part of the recipe?
You can use any standard blend of frozen mixed vegetables, which typically includes corn, peas, carrots, and green beans.
How many cups of broth are used in total?
The recipe uses a total of 5 cups of broth: 4 cups of beef broth and 1 cup of chicken broth.
Should the broth be cold when added to the Instant Pot?
The recipe recommends using heated beef and chicken broth to help the Instant Pot reach pressure faster.
How long should the soup sit after adding the final ingredients?
Let the soup sit for about 5 minutes after adding the pasta and spinach to allow the flavors to meld.
Can I use fresh green beans instead of frozen?
Yes, though the cooking time is optimized for frozen beans. Fresh beans may result in a slightly firmer texture.
Is this soup low-calorie?
Yes, this is described as a low-calorie dish that is both filling and nutrient-dense.
What size can of diced tomatoes is needed?
You will need one 28-ounce can of diced tomatoes.
Do I drain the juice from the diced tomatoes?
No, add the diced tomatoes along with their juice to the pot for maximum flavor and liquid base.
What kind of onion is best for this medley?
One yellow onion, chopped, is recommended for its balanced flavor.
Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?
Yes, you can substitute frozen spinach with fresh chopped spinach; it will wilt quickly in the hot soup.
How many celery ribs are used?
The recipe calls for 2 chopped celery ribs.
Is the sauté step necessary?
Sautéing the onion and celery for 5 minutes is recommended to soften them and build a deeper flavor base for the soup.
How much pasta should I prepare?
You should use 2 cups of already cooked pasta.
What type of pasta works best in this soup?
Small shapes like ditalini, elbow macaroni, or rotini work best for vegetable medley soups.
How do I adjust the seasoning?
After the flavors have melded at the end, taste the soup and add more salt, pepper, or Vegeta seasoning as needed.
Can I make this soup on the stovetop?
Yes, follow the same sautéing steps in a large pot, add the ingredients, and simmer until the vegetables are tender before adding the pasta and spinach.
Is this soup suitable for meal prep?
Yes, it is a great meal prep option and often tastes even better the next day after the flavors have further developed.
Does this recipe contain many allergens?
The recipe contains gluten (from the pasta). Ensure your broth and Vegeta seasoning are gluten-free if you have a gluten sensitivity.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are a total of 14 ingredients used in this recipe.
What makes this soup 'hearty'?
The combination of multiple vegetable types, pasta, and a robust broth base creates a satisfying and filling texture.
Can I add other proteins like beans or chicken?
Yes, you can easily add canned beans (rinsed) or shredded cooked chicken at the same time you add the pasta for extra protein.