CARROT AND POTATO CREAM SOUP

Carrot and Potato Cream Soup – A Healthy and Flavorful Delicacy

Carrot and potato cream soup is a comforting dish, perfect for cool days or when you feel the need for a light and healthy meal. This simple recipe brings together accessible ingredients and delicious flavors to create a dish that not only nourishes but also lifts your spirits. Over time, cream soups have become a symbol of culinary comfort, with each cook having their own variation and preparation secrets. Whether served as an appetizer or a main course, this dish will bring a smile to your face.

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 150 g potatoes (choose starchy varieties for a creamy texture)
- 450 g carrots (fresh, for a sweet and vibrant taste)
- 1 onion (you can opt for white or yellow onion, depending on your preference)
- 1 celery stalk (or about 60-80 g celery root, for extra flavor)
- Approximately 1.25 l water
- 200-250 ml yogurt (you can choose Greek yogurt for superior creaminess)
- 2 teaspoons vegetable seasoning (or a bouillon cube, if preferred)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- 3-4 tablespoons oil (olive oil or sunflower oil, depending on preference)

Step-by-Step Preparation:

1. Preparing the Vegetables: Start by peeling the carrots, potatoes, and celery. Cut the carrots and potatoes into small cubes for even cooking. Chop the onion finely and cut the celery into suitable pieces.

2. Heating the Oil: Put the oil in a medium pot and heat it over medium heat. Make sure the oil is hot enough but do not allow it to smoke.

3. Sautéing the Vegetables: Add the onion, carrots, and if using celery root, add it now. Sauté for 3-4 minutes, stirring constantly, until the onion becomes translucent and the vegetables start to take on a slight color.

4. Adding Water and Potatoes: Pour the water over the sautéed vegetables and add the potatoes and celery stalk (if using). Season with vegetable seasoning and let it simmer on low heat for about 40 minutes, or until all the vegetables are well cooked and soft.

5. Blending the Cream Soup: Once the vegetables are cooked, remove the pot from the heat and let it cool slightly. Use an immersion blender or a regular blender to puree everything until you achieve a smooth and creamy consistency. If it seems too thick, you can add a little water until you reach the desired consistency.

6. Adding the Yogurt: Return the pureed soup to the pot and add the yogurt. Mix well to combine the ingredients. This step not only enriches the soup with exceptional creaminess but also adds a fresh taste.

7. Seasoning: Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. It’s important to taste and adjust the seasoning, as each ingredient can bring a different nuance.

8. Serving: Serve the cream soup hot, with a spoonful of yogurt on top if desired, and sprinkle a little chopped fresh parsley or toasted pumpkin seeds for an extra touch of texture and color.

Practical Tips:
- Choosing Ingredients: Make sure to use fresh vegetables. Sweet carrots and starchy potatoes will yield the best results.
- Vegan Option: If you want a vegan version, you can replace the yogurt with soy or cashew yogurt and omit the vegetable seasoning.
- Flavor Additions: You can experiment with spices like cumin or curry to add an exotic taste to your soup.
- Creative Serving: The soup can be served with toasted bread croutons or toasted sunflower seeds for a crunchy contrast.

Nutritional Benefits:
This cream soup is rich in vitamins and minerals, thanks to the carrots and potatoes, which are excellent sources of beta-carotene, vitamin C, and fiber. The yogurt adds probiotics, beneficial for digestive health, and using olive oil provides healthy fatty acids.

Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can the soup be frozen? Yes, the cream soup can be frozen. Make sure to let it cool completely before placing it in airtight containers.
- Can I use other vegetables? Absolutely! You can experiment with zucchini, pumpkin, or even spinach to add a splash of color and nutrients.
- What drinks pair well? A warm soup pairs excellently with a glass of dry white wine or freshly squeezed lemonade for a refreshing contrast.

Carrot and potato cream soup is not just a simple recipe but also an inspired choice for a healthy and comforting meal. Whether you prepare it for yourself or for loved ones, with each spoonful you will bring a touch of warmth and goodness to the plate, transforming an ordinary meal into an experience full of love and flavor. Savor every moment and enjoy the pleasure of cooking!