Carrot-Peanut Soup

Carrot-Peanut Soup Recipe | Delicious and Nutritious

Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 15 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Carrot-Peanut Soup is a delicious and nutritious dish that combines the sweetness of carrots with the nuttiness of peanuts. This soup is perfect for a cozy night in or as a starter for a dinner party.

History

Carrot-Peanut Soup has its origins in African cuisine, where peanuts are a common ingredient in savory dishes. The combination of carrots and peanuts creates a unique flavor profile that is both comforting and satisfying.

Ingredients

2 tbsp unsalted margarine
3 tbsp unbleached white flour
1.5 cups skim milk, scalded
1 lb (454 g) carrots, peeled, cut 0.5 inch thick
1.5 cups vegetable broth
0.25 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
a few cilantro sprigs
6 tbsp peanuts, dry-roasted, unsalted — roughly chopped
0.5 tsp salt
0.25 tsp pepper

How to prepare

Melt the margarine in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk for 1 minute.
Add the milk and whisk until well blended.
Remove from heat and set aside.
In a small saucepan over medium heat, cook the carrots in the broth until the carrots are tender, about 15 minutes.
Strain the mixture, reserving the broth.
Puree the carrots in a food processor or blender, using small amounts of the reserved broth as necessary.
Add the cilantro and 3 tbsp of peanuts, then puree again.
Transfer the pureed mixture into the milk mixture.
Add the remaining broth, salt, and pepper.
Chill the mixture.
Garnish with the remaining peanuts and cilantro.

Variations

Add a pinch of curry powder for a spicy kick.
Garnish with a dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream for added creaminess.
Stir in a handful of cooked quinoa or rice for extra texture.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to scald the milk before adding it to the soup to prevent curdling.

- For a creamier texture, puree the soup in a blender or food processor until smooth.

- Adjust the seasoning to taste by adding more salt and pepper if desired.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Carrot-Peanut Soup with a side of crusty bread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to scald the milk before adding it to the soup to prevent curdling.

- Puree the soup in batches for a smoother consistency.

- Adjust the seasoning to taste before serving.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use butter instead of margarine for a richer flavor.

- Substitute almond milk for skim milk for a dairy-free version.

- Use cashews or almonds instead of peanuts for a different nutty flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

Carrot-Peanut Soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat on the stove before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish each bowl of soup with a drizzle of olive oil, a sprinkle of chopped peanuts, and a sprig of fresh cilantro for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Carrot-Peanut Soup pairs well with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, or a light beer, such as a pilsner.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove over low heat until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Carrot-Peanut Soup contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

Carrot-Peanut Soup is a good source of carbohydrates, with each serving containing approximately 25 grams.

Fats

This soup is relatively low in fat, with each serving containing around 10 grams of fat.

Proteins

Carrot-Peanut Soup provides a moderate amount of protein, with each serving containing about 8 grams.

Vitamins and minerals

This soup is rich in vitamins A and C, thanks to the carrots. It also contains iron, potassium, and magnesium from the peanuts.

Alergens

This recipe contains peanuts and dairy, so it may not be suitable for those with allergies to these ingredients.

Summary

Overall, Carrot-Peanut Soup is a nutritious and well-balanced dish that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals.

Summary

Carrot-Peanut Soup is a flavorful and nutritious dish that is easy to make and perfect for any occasion. With its unique combination of ingredients, this soup is sure to become a new favorite in your recipe repertoire.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I knew it was something I had to make. It was a chilly autumn evening, and I was flipping through an old cookbook that had been passed down to me from my own grandmother. The pages were yellowed and worn, and the handwritten notes in the margins told stories of generations past. As I turned the pages, a recipe for Carrot-Peanut Soup caught my eye. The combination of sweet carrots and creamy peanut butter intrigued me, and I knew I had to give it a try.

I had never made a soup quite like this before, but I was eager to experiment in the kitchen. I gathered the ingredients – fresh carrots, crunchy peanuts, fragrant garlic, and a jar of peanut butter – and set to work. As I chopped and sautéed and stirred, the kitchen filled with the warm, comforting aroma of spices and vegetables.

As the soup simmered on the stove, I couldn't help but think back to all the recipes I had learned over the years. Some had been passed down through my family, like my grandmother's famous apple pie or my mother's hearty beef stew. Others I had picked up from friends, neighbors, and even strangers – a chance encounter at a farmer's market, a shared recipe at a potluck dinner, a recommendation from a fellow food enthusiast.

Each recipe had its own story, its own journey from kitchen to kitchen, from generation to generation. And now, as I stirred the pot of Carrot-Peanut Soup, I felt connected to all those who had come before me, all those who had shared their love of cooking and good food.

Finally, the soup was ready. I ladled it into bowls, garnished with a sprinkle of chopped peanuts and a drizzle of creamy peanut butter. As I took my first spoonful, the flavors exploded on my tongue – the sweetness of the carrots, the richness of the peanut butter, the warmth of the spices. It was like nothing I had ever tasted before, and I knew that this recipe would become a favorite in my own kitchen.

Over the years, I have made Carrot-Peanut Soup many times, tweaking the recipe here and there, adding my own personal touch. I have shared it with friends and family, who have all raved about its unique and comforting flavors. And each time I make it, I am reminded of that first chilly autumn evening when I stumbled upon the recipe in my old cookbook.

Now, as I pass on this recipe to you, my dear grandchild, I hope that you will enjoy making it as much as I have. And remember, cooking is not just about following a set of instructions – it is about creativity, experimentation, and sharing with others. So go ahead, give it a try. Who knows what delicious new recipe you might discover along the way.