Carrot cream soup

Carrot Cream Soup: A Warm Embrace in a Bowl

When the weather turns cooler, nothing compares to a carrot cream soup, a simple and comforting recipe, perfect for bringing warmth and a splash of vitality to dreary days. This soup is not only a delight but also a healthy choice, packed with nutrients, that can be served for both lunch and dinner. Let’s discover together the steps needed to create this delicious dish!

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Number of servings: 4-6

Necessary ingredients:
- 2 medium onions
- 2 medium potatoes
- 5-6 medium carrots
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2-3 tablespoons vegetable seasoning (or 2-3 vegetable-flavored cubes, such as Knorr or Maggi)
- 2-3 tablespoons freshly grated ginger (or dried)
- 2 teaspoons white pepper (or to taste)
- 2 liters of water (or vegetable broth)
- Salt, to taste
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by peeling the carrots and cutting them into thicker rounds. Peel and cube the potatoes, and finely chop the onion. Grate the fresh ginger. These steps will ensure even and quick cooking of the vegetables, essential for a smooth cream soup.

2. Choosing the broth: If you don’t have vegetable broth on hand, don’t worry! You can boil 2 liters of water and add 2-3 tablespoons of vegetable seasoning or vegetable-flavored cubes. This will add an extra layer of flavor to your soup.

3. Sautéing the onion: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 5-7 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent. This step is crucial as sautéing the onion will bring a sweet flavor to the soup.

4. Adding the carrots: After the onion is sautéed, add the carrot rounds. Cover the pot and let them steam on low heat for 10-15 minutes. This way, the carrots will release their natural juices and aroma, bringing an intense flavor.

5. Potatoes and spices: Once the carrots are steamed, add the potato cubes and let everything cook on low heat for another 5 minutes. Then, pour in the vegetable broth (or water with seasoning), add the grated ginger and white pepper. Cover the pot and let it simmer over medium heat until the vegetables are well cooked, about 20-25 minutes.

6. Blending the soup: Once the vegetables are cooked, let the soup cool for 5 minutes. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until it becomes a smooth and velvety cream. If the soup is too thick, you can add a little hot broth to adjust the texture.

7. Finalizing: Taste the soup and add salt to taste. Once you have achieved the desired flavor, it’s time to serve! Add a little freshly ground pepper and chopped parsley at the end for a fresh look and clean aroma.

Serving suggestions:
Carrot cream soup is wonderful served with fresh bread or crunchy croutons. You can also add a spoonful of sour cream or Greek yogurt for extra creaminess. Additionally, a drizzle of olive oil on top adds a refined touch.

Practical tips:
- For an even more intense flavor, you can add a clove of sautéed garlic along with the onion.
- If you want a slightly spicier soup, you can add a pinch of chili flakes.
- Instead of fresh ginger, you can use dried ginger, but be careful with the amount as it is more concentrated.

Nutritional benefits:
Carrots are an excellent source of beta-carotene, which converts to vitamin A in the body, essential for eye health. Additionally, ginger has anti-inflammatory properties and can aid digestion. This soup is low in calories, with approximately 150-200 calories per serving, depending on the amount of oil and other ingredients added.

Possible variations:
- You can add other vegetables, such as celery or pumpkin, to vary the taste.
- If you like a more exotic flavor, try adding a splash of coconut milk and curry for an Asian-influenced soup.
- A vegan version can be made using olive oil and vegetable broth.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use frozen vegetables? Yes, frozen vegetables can be used, but cooking time may need to be adjusted.
2. How can I store the soup? The soup stores well in the refrigerator in airtight containers for 3-4 days or can be frozen for later use.
3. How can I make the soup spicier? Add more ginger or white pepper, or even a pinch of curry for a more intense flavor.

With each spoonful of this carrot cream soup, you will feel not only the delightful flavors but also the warmth and comfort that only a simple and healthy recipe can offer. So, grab a bowl, fill it with this delicacy, and enjoy every moment spent around the table! Enjoy your meal!