It depends on the vegetable and the situation. Some of them I sauté first, others I add to the stock as is.
Generally speaking I consider the ingredients and think whether or not browning those would add desirable flavors.
There are also cases where some ingredients have flavor compounds that fat soluble and really need to be sautéed first to liberate those flavors/aromas to the fullest. Many members of the allium family -- like onions -- fall into this category, for example.
Ultimately you will have to come up with a strategy based on how you envision the end result. If you want a delicate and/or lighter soup, avoid lots of sauteeing. If you want something heartier and/or more darker soup, sauteeing will be beneficial.
I've made delicious soups in many styles from many origins and cuisines and I assure you there is no global "this is the only way to do it" generalization.
Thank you for commenting! I sauteed most of the veggies in stockpot before adding the broth. I sauteed the onions, garlic, leek, carrots, parsnip, celery, mushrooms, baby bok choy, then added the broth to that. Also added broccoli, cannellini beans and different types of chicken boullion along with some spices, fresh dill and thyme. Did have to add some low salt store bought broth as well. It turned out very, very yummy. Serving it tonite with egg noodles. :)
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Generally speaking I consider the ingredients and think whether or not browning those would add desirable flavors.
There are also cases where some ingredients have flavor compounds that fat soluble and really need to be sautéed first to liberate those flavors/aromas to the fullest. Many members of the allium family -- like onions -- fall into this category, for example.
Ultimately you will have to come up with a strategy based on how you envision the end result. If you want a delicate and/or lighter soup, avoid lots of sauteeing. If you want something heartier and/or more darker soup, sauteeing will be beneficial.
I've made delicious soups in many styles from many origins and cuisines and I assure you there is no global "this is the only way to do it" generalization.
Best of luck.