Carrot ginger cream soup

Carrot Ginger Cream Soup - a warm hug in a bowl

Are you looking for a simple and healthy recipe for those days when you need comfort? Carrot ginger cream soup is the perfect choice! This soup is not only delicious but also offers numerous nutritional benefits. Carrots, rich in beta-carotene, and ginger, known for its anti-inflammatory properties, combine to create a healthy and comforting meal. With a creamy texture and rich flavor, this soup will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Necessary ingredients:

- 3 small potatoes
- 5 carrots (ideally medium-sized)
- 1 onion
- A slice of celery (about 2 cm thick)
- 1 tablespoon of grated ginger (fresh)
- 1 clove of garlic
- A handful of fresh parsley
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Olive oil (for sautéing)

Step by step for a perfect carrot ginger cream soup:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by peeling and chopping the vegetables. Cut the carrots, potatoes, and celery into small cubes, and the onion into small pieces. These cuts will help the vegetables cook evenly and blend more easily.

2. Sautéing the onion: In a large pot, heat 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent and aromatic. This is when the onion releases its natural sweetness.

3. Adding the vegetables: Once the onion is sautéed, add the chopped carrots, potatoes, and celery. Stir well to combine the flavors. Cover the pot with a lid and let the vegetables simmer on low heat for 5-7 minutes to release their flavors.

4. Boiling: Add enough water to the pot to cover the vegetables. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender. It's essential to check the consistency of the vegetables with a fork from time to time.

5. Adding the flavors: When the vegetables are cooked, add the grated ginger and crushed garlic clove. Stir well and let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to combine.

6. Blending: Once the vegetables are tender, remove the pot from heat. Use an immersion blender to puree the vegetables directly in the pot until you achieve a creamy consistency. If the soup is too thick, add a little water from the cooking water until you reach the desired consistency.

7. Finalizing: Add the chopped parsley, stir well, and taste to adjust the salt and pepper. If the soup has cooled, reheat it over low heat before serving.

8. Serving: Carrot ginger cream soup can be served plain or with crispy croutons for added texture. It's delicious even without croutons, perfect for those on a diet. You can garnish it with a few fresh parsley leaves for an appealing look.

Practical tips:

- Ingredient variations: You can experiment with other vegetables, such as pumpkin or sweet potatoes, to create a soup with a different flavor. Adding a pinch of nutmeg or cumin can enhance the flavor.
- Fresh ginger: Using fresh ginger is essential for that spicy and fresh flavor. Avoid ginger powder, which will not provide the same taste.
- Customization: If you want a richer soup, add a cup of cream or coconut milk after blending for a creamier texture and flavor.

Nutritional benefits:

Carrots are an excellent source of vitamins, especially vitamin A, which is essential for eye health. Ginger aids digestion and has anti-inflammatory properties. This soup is low in calories, making it an ideal choice for a light meal or appetizer.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I add other vegetables? Yes, you can add pumpkin, sweet potatoes, or even spinach to enrich the soup.
2. How can I store the soup? It keeps well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. It can be frozen in portions to be consumed later.
3. Is it suitable for vegans? Absolutely! This soup is vegan as long as you do not add dairy cream.

Serving suggestions:

This carrot ginger cream soup pairs perfectly with a slice of toasted whole-grain bread or an avocado sandwich. You can also accompany it with a fragrant herbal tea, such as mint or ginger tea, for a complete culinary experience.

Enjoy and savor every bite of this delicious soup! This is not just a meal, but a true warm hug in broth.