Cream of Carrot Soup

Cream of Carrot Soup Recipe - Vegetarian Soup

Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 45 minutes | Servings: 6 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Cream of Carrot Soup is a delicious and comforting dish that is perfect for a cozy night in or as a starter for a dinner party. This creamy soup is packed with the sweet and earthy flavors of carrots, making it a nutritious and satisfying meal.

History

Carrot soup has been enjoyed for centuries, with variations of the dish appearing in different cultures around the world. The addition of cream to the soup adds a rich and velvety texture, making it a popular choice for those looking for a comforting and indulgent meal.

Ingredients

10 carrots, scrubbed, lightly peeled and sliced
6 cups vegetable broth
4 tbsp unsalted butter
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
3 tbsp cornstarch
water
a pinch of dill weed or minced fresh dill
0.13 tsp each dried oregano and thyme
1 tbsp minced fresh parsley
salt
ground black pepper
0.5 cup cream
fresh parsley for garnish

How to prepare

In a large Dutch oven, heat the butter or margarine. Add the onions and garlic, and sauté until they turn light golden.
Pour in the broth.
Add the carrots, dill, oregano, thyme, parsley, salt, and pepper to season.
Bring the mixture to a boil.
Reduce the heat and simmer until the carrots are cooked.
Dissolve cornstarch in a small amount of cold water.
Stir in the diluted cornstarch into the soup.
Add the cream and let the soup simmer for another 15 minutes, making sure not to let it boil.
Serve the soup in bowls and garnish with fresh parsley.

Variations

Add a splash of orange juice for a citrusy twist.
Top the soup with croutons or a dollop of sour cream for added texture.
Garnish with chopped chives or a drizzle of olive oil for extra flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to sauté the onions and garlic until they are light golden to bring out their flavors.

- Simmer the soup gently to ensure that the carrots are cooked through and tender.

- Dilute the cornstarch in cold water before adding it to the soup to prevent lumps from forming.

- Avoid boiling the soup once the cream has been added to prevent curdling.

Serving Suggestions

Cream of Carrot Soup can be served as a starter with a crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Sauté the onions and garlic to build flavor.

- Simmer the soup gently to allow the flavors to meld together.

- Thicken the soup with cornstarch for a creamy texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use coconut milk or almond milk as a dairy-free alternative to cream.

- Substitute vegetable broth with chicken broth for a different flavor profile.

- Replace fresh parsley with cilantro or chives for a different herbaceous note.

Make Ahead Tips

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

Presentation Ideas

Garnish each bowl of Cream of Carrot Soup with a sprig of fresh parsley or a drizzle of cream for an elegant touch.

Pairing Recommendations

Serve Cream of Carrot Soup with a crisp green salad or a side of roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover Cream of Carrot Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the soup on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Cream of Carrot Soup contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Cream of Carrot Soup contains approximately 20 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Cream of Carrot Soup contains approximately 12 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Cream of Carrot Soup contains approximately 4 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Carrots are a rich source of vitamin A, vitamin K, and potassium, making this soup a nutritious choice for a healthy diet.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy in the form of cream, making it unsuitable for those with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies.

Summary

Cream of Carrot Soup is a nutritious and delicious dish that is rich in vitamins and minerals. However, it is high in fats and carbohydrates, so it should be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Summary

Cream of Carrot Soup is a comforting and nutritious dish that is perfect for a cozy night in or as a starter for a dinner party. Packed with the sweet and earthy flavors of carrots, this creamy soup is sure to be a hit with family and friends.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the sense of anticipation I felt when I first saw this recipe for Cream of Carrot Soup. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl learning how to cook from my mother. We were flipping through an old cookbook that had been passed down through generations in our family, and there it was - a simple yet elegant recipe for a creamy and delicious soup made from fresh carrots.

My mother explained to me that this particular recipe had been given to her by a dear friend who was known for her culinary skills. She had perfected the art of making this soup over the years, and my mother was thrilled to have the opportunity to learn from her. As we read through the ingredients and instructions, I could already imagine the savory aroma that would fill our kitchen as the soup simmered on the stove.

I was eager to try my hand at making the Cream of Carrot Soup, and with my mother's guidance, I set out to gather the necessary ingredients. We made a trip to the local market to pick up fresh carrots, onions, garlic, and a few other key items. I could hardly contain my excitement as we returned home and I began to peel and chop the vegetables, taking care to follow the recipe's precise measurements.

As the soup slowly cooked on the stove, I marveled at how the vibrant orange color of the carrots transformed into a silky smooth consistency. The rich aroma of the garlic and onions mingled with the sweetness of the carrots, creating a tantalizing scent that made my mouth water. I couldn't wait to taste the final product and see if it lived up to my expectations.

When the soup was finally ready, my mother and I ladled it into bowls and sat down at the table to enjoy our creation. As soon as I took my first spoonful, I knew that this recipe was a winner. The velvety texture of the soup was like a warm hug, comforting and satisfying in every way. The flavors were perfectly balanced, with just the right amount of sweetness and depth from the carrots and spices.

From that moment on, Cream of Carrot Soup became a staple in our household. I made it for family gatherings, dinner parties, and even just for myself on cozy nights at home. Each time I prepared the soup, I remembered the sense of anticipation I had felt when I first discovered the recipe, and I was grateful for the opportunity to carry on the tradition of homemade cooking that had been passed down to me.

Over the years, I have continued to experiment with the recipe, adding my own personal touches and variations to make it truly my own. I have shared it with friends and loved ones, who have all raved about its delicious taste and comforting qualities. And as I grow older, I find solace in knowing that this simple yet elegant recipe will always hold a special place in my heart, reminding me of the joy and satisfaction that comes from creating something beautiful and delicious with my own two hands.

So the next time you find yourself with a surplus of carrots in your kitchen, I urge you to give this Cream of Carrot Soup recipe a try. I guarantee that you will be delighted by its velvety texture, rich flavor, and comforting warmth. And who knows, perhaps one day you will pass it down to the next generation, just as I have done with my own beloved recipes. Happy cooking!