Hodge Podge

Hodge Podge

Hodge Podge is a creamy, comforting vegetable soup that highlights the fresh flavors of spring veggies like new potatoes, carrots, peas, and green beans. It’s a simple yet delightful dish perfect for cozy meals.

Vegetarian

Prep Time

15 min

Cook Time

25 min

Servings

4

Hodge Podge is a classic dish rooted in English country cooking, traditionally made with a medley of fresh vegetables cooked together gently to preserve their textures and flavors. This version uses tender new potatoes and sweet carrots, complemented by the bright freshness of peas and green beans, all brought together with a rich, creamy broth that’s both soothing and satisfying. The addition of fresh dill and chives introduces a fragrant, herbal note that lights up the dish beautifully. Historically, Hodge Podge was a way to enjoy the bounty of spring and early summer vegetables, making the most of what was freshly harvested. It exemplifies simple, seasonal cooking — transforming humble ingredients into a nourishing and hearty soup. This dish pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a light green salad, making it an ideal meal for a light lunch or a charming starter for dinner. When preparing, patience is key to ensure vegetables are perfectly tender yet still hold their shape. The creamy broth, enriched with both milk and heavy cream, offers a luscious texture without overpowering the natural flavor of the vegetables. Serve this warm, and enjoy its comforting goodness on a cool day or as a delightful springtime treat.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb New Potatoes
  • 1 lb Carrots
  • 1 cup Green Beans
  • 0.5 cup Peas
  • 1 tablespoon Dill
  • 1 tablespoon Chives
  • 3 cup Milk
  • 0.5 cup Heavy Cream
  • 0.5 cup Butter
  • 0.5 tsp Salt
  • 0.25 tsp Black Pepper

Instructions

Begin by preparing your vegetables with care. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil; seasoned water enhances the natural sweetness of your carrots and new potatoes. Par-cook these root vegetables for about five minutes until they are tender enough to pierce with a fork but still hold their shape — this ensures they remain pleasantly firm in the final dish. Next, quickly blanch the peas and green beans in the same pot for about a minute. This short cooking time preserves their bright color and crisp-tender bite. Drain all the vegetables thoroughly and set them aside to keep warm. In a heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, gently melt the butter over medium heat. Add the cooked vegetables and stir them to warm through, letting the butter coat every piece for richness. Pour in the milk and heavy cream, then increase the heat to bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low; this slow simmer helps the flavors to meld without risking scorching the dairy. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, adjusting as you prefer. Stir in the chopped dill and chives, allowing their delicate herbal aroma to infuse the soup. Simmer uncovered for at least 10 minutes, letting the flavors deepen and the soup thicken slightly. Serve your Hodge Podge warm, garnished with a sprinkle of additional fresh herbs if you like. For best results, enjoy it fresh but it also reheats well, making it a great make-ahead option for busy days. Pair with warm crusty bread to soak up the luscious broth, completing this comforting, vegetable-rich meal.

Quick Info

Prep Time
15 min
Cook Time
25 min
Total Time
40 min
Servings
4

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