Name: Witches Soup
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 cup pearl onions; 2 ribs celery, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cups baby carrots, sliced into chunks; 3 cups pearl potatoes or baby potatoes; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 can (15 oz) white beans, drained and rinsed; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 teaspoon dried rosemary; Salt, to taste; Black pepper, to taste

I love making Witches Soup every October, not just for the cozy warmth it brings, but for the fun and charm it adds to the season. This hearty bowl of bubbling magic is packed with root vegetables, savory broth, and just enough spooky vibes to make it perfect for a Halloween night or any chilly evening. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a spell was cast over the kitchen—aromatic, comforting, and visually striking with colorful chunks floating like potion ingredients in a cauldron.

Witches Soup is my go-to when I want something festive yet nourishing. It’s a clever mix of earthy carrots, pearl onions, potatoes, and beans simmered in a rich tomato base, with herbs and spices that bring everything together beautifully. Whether I’m serving it to kids at a Halloween party or enjoying a quiet bowl with a chunk of rustic bread, it always hits the spot.

Why You’ll Love This Witches Soup

It’s cozy, colorful, and full of hearty vegetables that make it feel like a complete meal in one bowl. Witches Soup is vegan-friendly, naturally gluten-free, and incredibly versatile. It’s a perfect way to warm up and get into the Halloween spirit without needing anything complicated. Plus, it stores well and tastes even better the next day.

What Kind of Potatoes Should I Use?

For the best texture, I recommend baby potatoes or pearl potatoes. They hold their shape while cooking and add that whimsical, cauldron-like look to the soup. If you can’t find them, regular Yukon gold or red potatoes cut into chunks will work just fine.

Options for Substitutions

This soup is easy to adapt based on what you have on hand. No pearl onions? Use chopped yellow onion. Want more protein? Add lentils or chickpeas. Craving more depth? Toss in some mushrooms. The base is forgiving, and you can adjust the herbs, spice level, and vegetables to suit your taste or pantry.

Ingredients for this Witches Soup

Pearl Potatoes – These give the soup its signature look, resembling mystical orbs in a bubbling brew. They hold their texture well and soak up all the flavors beautifully.

Carrots – Earthy and sweet, carrots add warmth, color, and a hearty bite.

Pearl Onions – Mild and slightly sweet, these onions balance the richness of the broth while enhancing the spooky aesthetic.

Celery – Brings a clean, herbal undertone and rounds out the base flavor.

Garlic – Essential for depth. It gives the soup a fragrant base and a warming finish.

Canned Diced Tomatoes – Provide the rich, red broth that feels like a potion simmering in a cauldron.

Tomato Paste – Intensifies the flavor of the tomatoes and thickens the soup.

Vegetable Broth – Acts as the base of the soup. Choose a good-quality broth for maximum flavor.

White Beans (like cannellini) – Adds protein, creaminess, and heartiness to the dish.

Olive Oil – Used for sautéing the veggies and adding richness.

Thyme & Rosemary – These herbs bring that earthy, woodsy flavor that makes it taste like it was brewed in an enchanted forest.

Salt & Black Pepper – For seasoning and balance.

Optional: Mushrooms, Chickpeas, or Red Pepper Flakes – Add-ins for extra depth, heat, or protein.

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large soup pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the pearl onions, chopped celery, and minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant and the onions begin to soften, about 5 minutes.

Step 2: Add Root Vegetables

Toss in the pearl potatoes and sliced carrots. Stir well to coat them with the aromatics. Cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, to start building flavor.

Step 3: Layer in the Tomato Base

Add the tomato paste and stir for 1-2 minutes to caramelize slightly. Then pour in the diced tomatoes and vegetable broth. Stir to combine everything into a rich, reddish base.

Step 4: Simmer the Cauldron

Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cover and cook for 25–30 minutes, or until the potatoes and carrots are fork-tender.

Step 5: Add the Final Touches

Stir in the white beans and season with thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Simmer uncovered for 5–10 more minutes to let all the flavors meld. Adjust seasoning to taste.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with a sprinkle of black pepper or fresh herbs. Serve hot with rustic bread or over a scoop of rice for a heartier meal.

How Long to Prepare the Witches Soup

Preparation Time:
Chopping vegetables like carrots, celery, and potatoes takes about 15–20 minutes depending on your knife skills. Using pre-peeled pearl onions or baby potatoes can save extra time.

Cooking Time:
The soup needs to simmer for about 30–40 minutes total, which includes time to build the broth and fully tenderize the vegetables. It’s mostly hands-off, letting the cauldron bubble gently while the flavors come together.

Tips for Perfect Witches Soup

Sauté the garlic, onions, and celery slowly to create a deep, flavorful base.
Add tomato paste before liquids to intensify its flavor through slight caramelization.
Use fresh herbs if possible, or add dried herbs earlier in the cooking to help them bloom.
Taste and season at multiple stages: before simmering, after adding beans, and before serving.
Let the soup sit for 10 minutes off the heat before serving to allow flavors to fully settle.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Overcooking the potatoes: They’ll become mushy and lose their charming shape. Keep an eye on them.
Using raw or bland broth: A good vegetable broth makes all the difference. Low-sodium is great if you plan to season it yourself.
Not sautéing the aromatics properly: This step builds the foundational flavor, so don’t rush it.
Adding beans too early: They can turn mushy or overcook.
Skipping the final seasoning: The soup can taste flat without a final salt and pepper adjustment.

What to Serve With Witches Soup?

1. Crusty Garlic Bread

Crunchy on the outside and soft on the inside, perfect for dipping into the magical broth.

2. Roasted Pumpkin Slices

They add a natural sweetness that complements the savory soup.

3. Herbed Couscous

Serve the soup over a scoop for an earthy, filling combo.

4. Simple Green Salad

A light, refreshing contrast to the hearty nature of the soup.

5. Apple Cider or Mulled Wine

For a cozy seasonal drink pairing that feels like fall in a cup.

Storage Instructions

Refrigeration:
Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. The flavor deepens with time, making it even more delicious the next day.

Freezing:
This soup freezes beautifully. Let it cool completely, then store it in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 3 months. Leave some headspace for expansion.

Reheating:
Warm it on the stovetop over medium heat until hot, or microwave in a covered dish, stirring halfway through. Add a splash of broth or water if it thickened during storage.

Estimated Nutrition

(Per serving – approx. 1.5 cups)

Calories: 220
Protein: 8g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fiber: 6g
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Sodium: 580mg
Sugar: 7g

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Witches Soup in a slow cooker?

Yes! Sauté the aromatics first, then transfer everything to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours.

Is this soup vegan?

Absolutely. It’s 100% plant-based and dairy-free by default.

Can I add meat?

Sure. Ground turkey, shredded chicken, or sausage can be browned and added for a protein boost.

What if I don’t have pearl onions?

Use chopped yellow or white onions as a substitute. They’ll still add that lovely sweetness and depth.

Can I make it spicier?

Yes! Add red pepper flakes, cayenne, or a dash of hot sauce to bring up the heat.

Conclusion

Witches Soup is the perfect blend of spooky, cozy, and comforting. Whether you’re making it for a Halloween party or a chilly autumn dinner, this recipe captures the essence of fall in every bite. It’s a simple yet flavorful dish that invites creativity and adapts to whatever you have in your kitchen cauldron. With its rich tomato broth, colorful vegetables, and warming herbs, it’s a magical meal everyone will enjoy.