Beetroot cream soup

Beetroot Cream Soup – A Vibrant and Nutritious Delicacy

Who doesn’t love a warm and comforting soup, especially on chilly days? Beetroot cream soup is not only a healthy choice but also an explosion of color and flavor. This recipe, which caught Costel’s attention in a specialty magazine, is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can create a sophisticated and flavorful dish. Let’s discover together how to prepare this delicious soup!

Total preparation time: 45 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:

- 2 medium beetroots (about 300 g)
- 2 medium onions
- 2 carrots
- 2 potatoes
- ½ celery
- 1 small lemon
- 1 teaspoon of dried tarragon
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley
- 2-3 garlic cloves
- Olive oil (for the garlic)
- Salt (to taste)
- Flavored croutons (for serving)

Ingredient description:
Beetroot is not only a spring vegetable but also an excellent source of antioxidants and vitamins. It is known for its nutritional properties, including potassium and folic acid. Onion and carrot add sweetness, while celery provides a distinct flavor. Potatoes will give the soup body, and garlic and tarragon add an extra layer of aroma.

Soup preparation:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by peeling the beetroots, onions, carrots, potatoes, and celery. Cut the beetroot, onion, carrots, potatoes, and celery into small cubes. This step is essential, as uniform cube size will ensure even cooking.

2. Boiling the vegetables: In a large pot, add about 2.5 liters of water and a pinch of salt. Add the chopped vegetables to the water and let them boil over medium heat for 25-30 minutes or until tender. Stir occasionally to prevent the vegetables from sticking to the bottom of the pot.

3. Making the puree: Once the vegetables are cooked, drain the water (keeping a few tablespoons to adjust the soup's consistency later) and transfer the cooked vegetables to a blender. Blend until you achieve a smooth puree. If you don’t have a blender, you can also use a hand mixer, but ensure the puree is homogeneous.

4. Adjusting the consistency: Gradually add the reserved liquid, stirring until you achieve the desired consistency. If you prefer a thinner soup, you can add more water. Place the obtained puree over low heat and let it simmer for a few minutes, stirring occasionally.

5. Adding flavors: Squeeze the juice from the small lemon into the soup, add the dried tarragon, and mix well. This step will bring a note of freshness and a pleasant contrast to the sweetness of the beetroot.

6. Preparing the garlic: In a small bowl, crush 2-3 garlic cloves and mix them with a little olive oil. This paste will enhance the soup's aroma. Add the garlic to the soup and stir well to incorporate the flavors.

7. Serving the soup: Once the soup is ready, pour it into bowls and garnish with chopped fresh parsley. Don’t forget the flavored croutons, which will add a crunchy texture and a pleasant contrast.

Serving suggestions:
Beetroot cream soup is perfect served warm, alongside some flavored croutons, maybe even a splash of sour cream or Greek yogurt for added creaminess. This combination will transform each serving into an unforgettable culinary experience.

Possible variations:
For a touch of exoticism, you can add a bit of freshly grated ginger to the vegetable puree. You can also experiment with other herbs, such as basil or dill, depending on your preferences. If you want a spicier soup, a good idea would be to add a bit of chili pepper.

Nutritional benefits:
Beetroot cream soup is rich in vitamins and minerals, with a low-calorie content, making it an excellent choice for a healthy diet. Beetroot helps improve heart health and detoxify the body.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use canned beetroot?
Yes, but it is recommended to reduce the cooking time, as canned beetroot is already cooked.
- How can I store the soup?
The soup keeps well in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for later use.
- What other recipes can I try with beetroot?
You can try salads with beetroot, pies, or even smoothies.

This beetroot cream soup is not only easy to prepare but also brings a splash of color and health to your plate. So, don’t hesitate to try this wonderful recipe and enjoy every bite!