Velvety carrot cream soup

Velvety carrot cream soup - a healthy and comforting delight

When it comes to dishes that combine refined taste with nutritional benefits, velvety carrot cream soup holds a special place in the hearts of many. This simple and quick recipe will not only warm you on chilly days but also bring a splash of joy to your plate. Sweet carrots, aromatic onion, and colorful bell pepper combine perfectly to create a creamy soup, ideal for any occasion.

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

Necessary ingredients:
- 6 medium carrots (about 600 g)
- 1 onion (preferably red for a sweeter taste)
- 1 bell pepper (red or yellow, depending on preference)
- 300 ml cooking cream (about 1/2 container)
- 1-2 tablespoons of fresh or dried tarragon, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon of nutmeg (optional, but recommended for extra flavor)
- 4-5 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon of butter

Preparation of ingredients:
Start by peeling the carrots, onion, and bell pepper. Slice the carrots into rounds, dice the onion into smaller cubes, and cut the bell pepper into strips. These sizes help ensure even and quick cooking of the vegetables. Choose fresh carrots with a vibrant color to ensure the soup will have a distinct taste and plenty of natural sweetness.

Step 1: Sauté the vegetables
In a medium pot, add the olive oil and butter, then place the pot over medium heat. Once the butter has melted, add the onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until it becomes translucent. Then, add the carrots and bell pepper. Continue to stir, allowing the vegetables to soften slightly and take on a golden-yellow hue, about 8-10 minutes. This step is essential for developing the rich flavor of the soup.

Step 2: Boil the vegetables
After the vegetables have sautéed, add boiling water (about 1 liter or more, depending on the desired consistency). Let the soup boil for 20 minutes until the carrots become very soft. You can check the consistency with a fork; they should easily fall apart. This is the moment when the flavors combine, so don’t rush!

Step 3: Purée the soup
Once the vegetables are cooked, remove the pot from the heat and use an immersion blender or a regular blender to purée everything until you achieve a smooth and velvety consistency. If it’s too thick, you can add a little hot water to adjust the consistency. This is also the moment to add the nutmeg if you chose to use it, but be careful to measure it out so it doesn’t overpower the natural flavor of the vegetables.

Step 4: Add the cream and spices
Return the soup to the pot and place it back on low heat. Add the cooking cream, chopped tarragon, salt, and pepper to taste. Let the soup simmer for a few minutes, stirring constantly. This step will bring a note of creaminess and balance the flavors.

Step 5: Serving
Once the soup is ready, serve it warm, garnished with a few fresh tarragon leaves or crunchy croutons for a pleasant contrast of textures. The croutons can be made from toasted bread, drizzled with olive oil and spices, baked in the oven for a few minutes.

Useful tips:
- You can adapt this recipe by adding other vegetables, such as potatoes or celery, to vary the taste and texture.
- If you prefer a spicier soup, you can add a little chili pepper or fresh ginger during the sautéing of the vegetables.
- Instead of cream, you can use coconut milk for a vegan option, adding a splash of lime juice for an exotic taste.

Nutritional benefits:
Carrots are an excellent source of beta-carotene, which is converted into vitamin A, essential for eye health and the immune system. Additionally, this soup is rich in fiber, aiding digestion, and contains healthy fats from olive oil and butter. Therefore, this soup is not only delicious but also beneficial for your health.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use frozen vegetables?
Yes, frozen vegetables are an excellent option and can reduce preparation time. Make sure to thaw and sauté them a little before adding water.

2. How can I store the soup?
The soup can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days or frozen for later consumption. Make sure to keep it in an airtight container.

3. What drinks pair well with carrot cream soup?
This soup pairs perfectly with a dry white wine or a fresh fruit cocktail. If you prefer non-alcoholic drinks, a light green tea or freshly squeezed orange juice can be excellent choices.

Now that you have all the necessary information, all that’s left is to get cooking! This velvety carrot cream soup is not only a simple recipe but also an opportunity to impress your family and friends with a healthy and flavorful dish. So, enjoy every bite and turn every meal into a celebration of flavors!