Cumin soup

Cumin Carrot Soup - a simple and comforting delight

When we think of soups, images of steaming, fragrant bowls that embrace our soul come to mind. This cumin carrot soup, while it may not stand out for its beauty, will surprise you with its intense and comforting flavor. It’s a simple recipe, perfect for chilly days or a light lunch. Let’s discover together how to prepare it step by step!

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 2 medium onions
- 2 medium carrots, sliced
- 1 tablespoon of oil (for sautéing the vegetables)
- 1 tablespoon of butter
- 1 tablespoon of flour
- 2 tablespoons of cumin
- 1 liter of warm water
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
- Croutons or toasted bread slices for serving

Recipe history:
Cumin soup has deep roots in the culinary traditions of many cultures, often prepared in colder seasons to provide comfort and warmth. Cumin, with its distinctive aroma, not only adds a unique flavor but is also known for its beneficial properties, being a good digestive aid. This simple recipe is easy to adapt, and the ingredients can vary according to personal preferences.

Soup preparation: Step by step

1. Preparing the vegetables: Start by peeling the onions and carrots. Chop the onions into small cubes and slice the carrots. These vegetables will provide a flavorful base for your soup.

2. Sautéing the vegetables: In a medium pot, add the oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sliced carrots and sauté for 5-7 minutes until they become translucent. This step is essential for developing the flavors of the soup.

3. Boiling the soup: Add the warm water to the pot, then place the cumin in a cheesecloth bag or an infuser ball (this trick will prevent the cumin seeds from floating in the soup). Allow everything to simmer over medium heat for about 30 minutes. This is the time when the flavors will begin to develop.

4. Preparing the roux: In a separate pan, melt the butter and add the flour, stirring continuously. It’s important to keep stirring, as the flour can burn quickly. Cook the mixture for 2-3 minutes until it turns light golden. This is the base for thickening the soup.

5. Thinning the roux: Take a few ladles of the boiling soup and gradually add them to the pan, stirring continuously. Then, pour the roux mixture back into the pot with the soup, stirring well to combine the ingredients.

6. Finalizing the preparation: Let the soup simmer for another 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Now is the time to season it with salt and pepper to taste.

7. Serving: Once the soup is ready, pour it into bowls and garnish with chopped fresh parsley. Serve with crunchy croutons or slices of toasted bread on the side - these add a pleasant contrast of textures.

Useful tips:
- Cumin: If you don’t have cumin seeds, you can use ground cumin, but it’s important to adjust the quantity since the flavor is more concentrated.
- Variations: You can also add other vegetables like celery or potatoes to enrich the textures and flavors.
- For an extra flavor boost: Add a tablespoon of sour cream or yogurt at serving for a creamy taste.

Calories and nutritional benefits:
This soup is low in calories and rich in nutrients, providing a good intake of vitamins from the vegetables. Cumin is beneficial for digestion, and carrots are an excellent source of beta-carotene, which converts to vitamin A in the body.

Pairing with other recipes:
This soup pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or a savory tart. You can also accompany it with a dry white wine or herbal tea for a perfect lunch or dinner.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use other spices?: Absolutely! You can experiment with basil or oregano to add a different flavor.
- How can I store the soup?: The soup keeps well in the fridge for 3-4 days, and the flavor may intensify as it cools.

I hope this cumin carrot soup recipe brings you joy and warmth on your days. I encourage you to prepare it and personalize your recipe, turning it into a signature dish! Cooking is an art, and every ingredient you choose can tell your story. Enjoy your meal!