Avocado Soup
Authentic Avocado Soup Recipe from Mexico with Carrot Juice and Dill
Introduction
Avocado soup is a refreshing and nutritious dish that is perfect for any season. This creamy soup combines the rich, buttery flavor of avocado with the crispness of fresh vegetables like carrots and cucumber. It's a simple, yet elegant dish that can be served as a starter or a light meal. The addition of dill, although optional, adds a fresh, herby note that complements the flavors beautifully. This recipe is ideal for those looking for a healthy, quick, and delicious option.
History
The history of avocado soup is not well-documented, but it is believed to have originated in Mexico, where avocados are native. Avocados have been a staple in Mexican cuisine for thousands of years, and their creamy texture makes them perfect for blending into a smooth soup. Over time, this dish has gained popularity worldwide, with various cultures adding their own twist to the recipe.
Ingredients
- 0.5 fresh california avocado, skin removed
- 0.25 cup fresh carrot juice (approximately 1 large carrot)
- 0.5 cucumber, peeled and cut into small chunks
- optional: seasoning to taste (such as dill)
How to prepare
- Place the ingredients into a blender in the order specified by the recipe. Blend until smooth.
Variations
- There are many ways to customize this avocado soup to suit your taste. For a spicy kick, add a jalapeƱo or a dash of cayenne pepper. For a more filling version, incorporate cooked quinoa or chickpeas. You can also experiment with different herbs, such as cilantro or basil, for a new flavor profile.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
For the creamiest soup, use ripe avocados that are soft to the touch. Adding a bit of lemon or lime juice not only enhances the flavor but also helps in preserving the bright green color of the soup. If you prefer a thinner consistency, you can add a little water or vegetable broth until you reach your desired thickness. Chilling the soup for at least an hour before serving allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Serving Suggestions
This soup can be served chilled or at room temperature, making it versatile for any season. Garnish with a sprig of dill, a swirl of yogurt, or a sprinkle of chili flakes for added flavor and presentation. It pairs wonderfully with a crusty piece of bread or a light salad for a complete meal.
Cooking Techniques
The key technique in this recipe is blending the ingredients to achieve a smooth and creamy texture. A high-powered blender works best, but a food processor can also be used. For an extra silky soup, strain it through a fine-mesh sieve after blending.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you don't have fresh carrots, you can use roasted red peppers for a different flavor and color. Greek yogurt can be substituted with coconut milk for a dairy-free version that adds a tropical twist. If dill isn't your favorite, feel free to use any herb you like.
Make Ahead Tips
This soup is perfect for making ahead as the flavors develop more fully when allowed to rest in the refrigerator. It can be stored in an airtight container and refrigerated for up to 3 days. Stir well before serving.
Presentation Ideas
Serve the soup in chilled bowls for a refreshing start to a meal. Garnish with edible flowers, such as nasturtiums or violets, for a touch of elegance. A drizzle of olive oil and some freshly ground black pepper can also enhance the visual appeal and flavor.
Pairing Recommendations
This light soup pairs well with a crisp, dry white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or a light-bodied Pinot Grigio. For a non-alcoholic option, a cucumber or lemon-infused sparkling water complements the soup's fresh flavors.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
This avocado soup is best enjoyed cold and does not require reheating. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It's not recommended to freeze this soup, as the texture may become less appealing upon thawing.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
A serving of this avocado soup contains approximately 160 calories, making it a light and healthy option. The majority of the calories come from the healthy fats in the avocado, with a smaller contribution from the vegetables.
Carbohydrates
This avocado soup is relatively low in carbohydrates, with the main sources being the fresh vegetables used in the recipe. Half an avocado contains approximately 8 grams of carbohydrates, while a quarter cup of carrots adds about 3 grams, and half a cucumber contributes around 2 grams. The total carbohydrate content per serving is roughly 13 grams, making this soup an excellent choice for those monitoring their carb intake.
Fats
Avocados are well-known for their healthy fats, particularly monounsaturated fat, which is beneficial for heart health. Half an avocado contains about 15 grams of fat, the majority of which is monounsaturated. The fats in avocado are not only good for you but also give the soup its creamy texture without the need for dairy.
Proteins
This avocado soup is not high in protein, with the main ingredients contributing minimal amounts. Half an avocado provides about 2 grams of protein, while the vegetables add negligible amounts. For a protein boost, consider adding a dollop of Greek yogurt or serving the soup with a side of grilled chicken or fish.
Vitamins and minerals
Avocado is a powerhouse of vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin K, Vitamin E, Vitamin C, and potassium. Carrots add a dose of Vitamin A, while cucumbers provide additional Vitamin K and potassium. This soup is an excellent way to get a variety of nutrients in a delicious and easy-to-digest form.
Alergens
This recipe is naturally free from most common allergens, including gluten, dairy, nuts, and soy. However, those with specific food sensitivities should always check the ingredients to ensure they are safe for their dietary needs.
Summary
Overall, this avocado soup is a nutritious choice, offering healthy fats, a variety of vitamins and minerals, and low carbohydrates. It's a heart-healthy, gluten-free, and dairy-free option suitable for many dietary preferences.
Summary
This avocado soup recipe offers a delightful blend of flavors and nutrients, making it a perfect choice for a healthy and satisfying meal. With its simple preparation and versatility, it's sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Whether you're looking for a light lunch or an elegant starter, this soup delivers on both taste and nutrition.
How did I get this recipe?
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The first time I saw this recipe, I was immediately intrigued. It was a hot summer day, and I was flipping through an old cookbook that I had found tucked away in the attic. As I turned the yellowed pages, a recipe for Avocado Soup caught my eye. I had never heard of such a thing before, but the combination of creamy avocado and refreshing lime juice sounded absolutely delicious.
I decided to give it a try, so I gathered the ingredients and got to work in the kitchen. As I chopped the ripe avocados and squeezed the fresh lime juice, the vibrant green color of the soup started to come together. The aroma of cilantro and cumin filled the air, and I knew I was onto something special.
As I let the soup simmer on the stove, I couldn't help but think back to all the recipes I had learned over the years. From my mother's famous meatloaf to my aunt's secret spaghetti sauce, each recipe held a special place in my heart. I had always been passionate about cooking, and I loved learning new recipes from family and friends.
The Avocado Soup finally finished cooking, and I poured myself a bowl. The first spoonful was a burst of flavor - tangy lime, creamy avocado, and a hint of spice from the cumin. It was unlike anything I had ever tasted before, and I knew I had stumbled upon a new favorite.
I couldn't wait to share this recipe with my family and friends. I invited them over for a summer cookout, and served the Avocado Soup as an appetizer. The reactions were unanimous - everyone loved it. They couldn't believe how such simple ingredients could come together to create such a delicious dish.
As the years went by, the Avocado Soup became a staple at family gatherings and dinner parties. It was always a hit, and I loved seeing the smiles on my loved ones' faces as they enjoyed each spoonful. I even started experimenting with different variations of the recipe, adding in ingredients like roasted corn and black beans for a Southwestern twist.
One day, I was at a farmer's market picking out fresh produce when I ran into an old friend. She had just returned from a trip to Mexico, where she had learned a traditional recipe for Avocado Soup from a local chef. She excitedly shared the recipe with me, and I couldn't wait to try it out.
I made the soup that same night, following the traditional Mexican method of blending ripe avocados with roasted poblano peppers and garlic. The flavors were rich and complex, with a smoky heat that lingered on the palate. It was a completely different take on the Avocado Soup I knew and loved, and I was hooked.
From then on, I made both versions of the soup - the classic and the Mexican-inspired - depending on my mood or the occasion. Each had its own unique charm, but both were equally delicious. I loved how a simple recipe could be adapted and transformed to create something entirely new.
As I sit here now, reflecting on my journey with the Avocado Soup recipe, I can't help but feel grateful for all the experiences and memories it has brought me. From the moment I first discovered it in that old cookbook to the times I shared it with loved ones, this recipe has been a constant source of joy and inspiration.
I may have learned this recipe from various places and people over the years, but it is now a part of my own culinary repertoire. It holds a special place in my heart, reminding me of the power of food to bring people together and create lasting memories. And for that, I will always be thankful.
Categories
| Carrot Juice Recipes | Cucumber Recipes | Hass Avocado Recipes | Mexican Recipes | Soup Recipes |