Roasted Parsnip Cream Soup

Roasted Parsnip Cream Soup - a warm embrace in every bowl

In a world full of ordinary soups, roasted parsnip cream soup stands out with its intense flavors and velvety texture. This dish not only delights the taste buds but also brings a touch of comfort and warmth on chilly days. Originating from the tradition of soup making, this recipe combines simple ingredients with cooking techniques that enhance the flavors.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients:

- 700 g parsnip (about 4-5 large pieces)
- 1 bulb of garlic
- 200 g smoked meat or kaiser
- 1 potato (about 200 g)
- 1 red onion
- 100 ml cooking cream
- Green onion (for garnish)
- Olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste

Necessary tools:

- Baking tray
- Large soup pot
- Blender or immersion mixer
- Spatula
- Knife and cutting board

1. Preparing the ingredients

Start by preheating the oven to 200 degrees Celsius. This will be the magical place where the garlic develops a sweet and rich aroma.

Chef's tip:
Buy a larger bulb of garlic, as smaller cloves tend to dry out during baking. This recipe will benefit from the richness of roasted garlic, so don’t skimp!

Peel the parsnip, cutting it into large pieces. Parsnip is a nutrient-rich root vegetable, high in fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants, making it not only delicious but also healthy. Also, peel the potato, ensuring you cut it into cubes for even cooking.

2. Roasting the garlic and parsnip

Place the unpeeled garlic bulbs in a tray and roast them for 10 minutes. This process will transform the garlic from a harsh ingredient into a sweet and aromatic one, perfect for the soup. After 10 minutes, add the cut parsnip to the tray, drizzling it with a bit of olive oil. Mix well to ensure each piece is evenly coated. Leave everything in the oven for 30 minutes.

3. Cooking the soup

While the parsnip and garlic are roasting, take a large pot and add a little olive oil. Add the chopped red onion and sauté until it becomes translucent. This will add a touch of sweetness to your soup.

Once the onion is sautéed, add the chicken broth (or water if you prefer a vegetarian version) and let it boil. Add the cut parsnip and potato, along with the smoked meat. Simmer everything over medium heat for about 20 minutes or until the vegetables are tender and the meat is cooked. The aroma in the pot will be irresistible!

4. Creating the cream

After all the ingredients are cooked, remove the smoked meat from the pot. Using a blender or immersion mixer, puree the cooked vegetables along with the roasted garlic bulbs, squeezing the pulp from the garlic cloves. This mixture will become the base of your creamy soup.

Put the pureed soup back into the pot, add the cooking cream, and bring to a boil again. Now is the time to season with salt and pepper to taste.

5. Serving

For an appealing presentation, serve the roasted parsnip cream soup in deep bowls. Cut the smoked meat into small pieces and sprinkle it on top. Add a few slices of fresh green onion for a contrast of color and texture.

A drizzle of olive oil on top will add extra flavor. You can accompany this soup with crunchy croutons or a slice of toasted bread.

Vegetarian option

To turn this recipe into a vegetarian option, simply omit the smoked meat and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. The flavor will remain just as intense, and the soup will still be delicious and nourishing.

Pairings and serving suggestions

This roasted parsnip cream soup pairs perfectly with a fresh green salad or a grilled cheese sandwich. You can also enjoy it alongside a warm drink, such as herbal tea or a dry white wine, which will complement the delicate flavors of the parsnip.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use other vegetables?
Yes, you can experiment with carrots or zucchini, adding them during the boiling process.

2. How can I store the soup?
The soup can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. You can freeze individual portions to enjoy later.

3. Is this soup suitable for vegans?
If you omit the cream and use vegetable broth, the soup becomes vegan.

Nutritional benefits

Parsnip is an excellent source of fiber, which aids digestion, and contains many essential vitamins and minerals. Garlic provides immune system benefits, while smoked meat adds protein and a savory taste. This soup is not only delicious but also nutritious!

Conclusion

Roasted parsnip cream soup is a simple and quick recipe, perfect for any meal. Its flavors enriched by garlic and velvety texture will make you come back to this recipe again and again. Savor every spoonful and share this delicacy with your loved ones!