When making vegetable soup does stock need to be made separately first?

You don't *have* to make stock separately. Many vegetable soup recipes use water as the base and rely on the vegetables themselves to release flavor.

Here's why making stock separately can be beneficial:

* Richer flavor: Homemade stock is packed with concentrated flavor from simmered bones, vegetables, and herbs. This adds depth and complexity to your soup.

* More body and texture: Stock provides a thicker, more satisfying texture to the soup.

* Less time cooking the soup: If you already have stock ready, you can cook the soup more quickly.

Here's why you might choose to skip making stock:

* Convenience: Using water is quicker and requires less effort.

* Less ingredients: You won't need extra vegetables or bones for stock.

* Simpler flavor profile: If you prefer a lighter, more straightforward flavor, water is a good choice.

Ultimately, the decision is yours! Choose the method that best suits your desired flavor, time constraints, and ingredient availability.

Tip: Even if you're using water, adding a few flavor-boosting ingredients like onion, garlic, and herbs to your soup can create a delicious and satisfying broth.