Cream of California Avocado Soup

Cream of California Avocado Soup Recipe - Made with Fresh Avocados

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Cream of California Avocado Soup is a delicious and creamy soup that highlights the rich and buttery flavor of ripe California avocados. This soup is perfect for a light and refreshing meal, especially during the warmer months.

History

The Cream of California Avocado Soup recipe originated in California, where avocados are abundant and a staple in many dishes. This soup has become a popular choice for those looking for a healthy and flavorful meal that is easy to prepare.

Ingredients

12 oz (340 g) diced shallots
1 tbsp vegetable oil
3.75 cup chicken or vegetable stock
1.5 tsp grated lemon zest
6 ripe california avocados (3 lb (1.36 kg))
0.75 cup half and half
2 tsp salt
0.5 tsp white pepper
0.5 tsp lemon juice
avocado slices for garnish

How to prepare

Sauté the shallot in oil until it becomes soft, which should take about 5 minutes.
Stir in the stock and lemon zest, then let it simmer for 10 minutes.
Cut the avocados into chunks and stir them into the stock. Proceed to purée the mixture.
Return the purée to the pan and stir in the half and half.
Heat the soup until it becomes hot, but be careful not to let it boil.
Season with salt and pepper according to taste.
Remove the soup from the heat and stir in the lemon juice.
Serve immediately, garnishing with avocado slices.

Variations

Add a touch of heat by stirring in some diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
For a vegan version, substitute the half and half with coconut milk or almond milk.
Top with crumbled bacon or shredded cheese for added flavor and texture.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to use ripe avocados for the best flavor and texture in this soup.

- Adjust the seasoning to your taste preferences, adding more salt, pepper, or lemon juice as needed.

- For a smoother soup, use an immersion blender to purée the avocado mixture.

- Garnish with additional toppings such as chopped cilantro, diced tomatoes, or a dollop of sour cream for added flavor and texture.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Cream of California Avocado Soup with a side of crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal. Garnish with additional avocado slices and a sprinkle of chopped cilantro for added flavor.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to simmer the soup gently to prevent the avocado from turning bitter.

- Use a high-speed blender for a smoother and creamier texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

Substitute shallots with onions for a milder flavor.

- Use chicken or beef stock instead of vegetable stock for a different flavor profile.

Make Ahead Tips

Cream of California Avocado Soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Cream of California Avocado Soup in individual bowls garnished with a drizzle of olive oil, a sprinkle of paprika, and a sprig of fresh herbs for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Cream of California Avocado Soup with a crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or a light-bodied red wine such as Pinot Noir. For a non-alcoholic option, serve with a refreshing iced tea or sparkling water with a splash of citrus.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover Cream of California Avocado Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Cream of California Avocado Soup contains approximately 300 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Cream of California Avocado Soup contains approximately 15 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Cream of California Avocado Soup contains approximately 25 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Cream of California Avocado Soup contains approximately 5 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Cream of California Avocado Soup is rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin K, folate, and potassium.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (half and half) and tree nuts (avocado). It may not be suitable for those with dairy or nut allergies.

Summary

Cream of California Avocado Soup is a nutritious and flavorful dish that is high in healthy fats and vitamins. It is a great option for those looking for a light and refreshing meal.

Summary

Cream of California Avocado Soup is a creamy and flavorful dish that highlights the rich and buttery flavor of ripe avocados. This soup is easy to prepare and perfect for a light and refreshing meal. Serve with a side of crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete and satisfying meal. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the thrill of stumbling upon this recipe for Cream of California Avocado Soup. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting a bustling farmers market in downtown Los Angeles. As I wandered through the vibrant stalls, my eyes were drawn to a display of ripe avocados, their smooth green skins glistening in the sunlight.

I had always loved avocados, their creamy texture and rich flavor a perfect addition to salads, sandwiches, and dips. But I had never thought of using them in a soup before. Intrigued, I approached the vendor selling the avocados and asked if they had any recipes for avocado soup. The vendor, a kind older woman with a twinkle in her eye, smiled and told me about a traditional California recipe that she had learned from her grandmother.

She described how the soup was made with ripe avocados, fresh herbs, and a touch of cream, creating a silky-smooth texture and a decadent taste. I could practically taste the rich, creamy soup in my mind, and I knew that I had to try making it myself.

The vendor generously shared the recipe with me, writing it down on a scrap of paper and adding a few tips and tricks that she had learned over the years. As I thanked her and made my way back home, I couldn't wait to gather the ingredients and start cooking.

Back in my kitchen, I carefully followed the recipe, chopping the avocados and blending them with fresh herbs, garlic, and chicken broth. The aroma of the soup simmering on the stove filled the air, and I felt a sense of anticipation building inside me.

When the soup was ready, I ladled it into bowls and garnished it with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of chopped chives. I took a tentative sip, the creamy texture and vibrant flavors dancing on my taste buds. It was even better than I had imagined – a perfect blend of richness and freshness that captured the essence of California cuisine.

I couldn't wait to share this delicious soup with my family and friends, watching their faces light up with pleasure as they tasted the unique flavors of the Cream of California Avocado Soup. They were impressed by my culinary skills, but I knew that the real magic came from the recipe itself, passed down through generations and infused with the love and care of those who had created it before me.

As I continued to make the soup over the years, I added my own twist to the recipe, experimenting with different herbs, spices, and garnishes to create new and exciting variations. Each time I made the soup, I felt a connection to the vendor at the farmers market, and to the long line of cooks who had lovingly prepared this dish before me.

Now, as I sit at my kitchen table, surrounded by the familiar sights and smells of home, I can't help but feel grateful for the serendipitous encounter that led me to discover this recipe. It has become a cherished part of my culinary repertoire, a dish that never fails to delight and impress those who taste it.

So the next time you find yourself at a farmers market, or browsing through a cookbook, keep an eye out for those hidden gems of recipes just waiting to be discovered. You never know what culinary masterpiece might be waiting for you just around the corner – like the Cream of California Avocado Soup that has become a beloved staple in my kitchen, and in the hearts of those who have had the pleasure of enjoying it.