got a food processor? you can make a lot of different things soft that way.
A 6 vegetable soup I like involves processing until smooth: 1 peeled cubed potato, 1 chunked carrot, 1 sliced zuchini, one chopped onion, 1 cup butternut squash, peeled and cubed, 1 cup frozen peas, and a can of veggie broth. Toss all in a pan and add water to cover veggies, boil until soft, process til smooth, salt and pepper to taste, serve with a dollop of sour cream.