Cream of Endive Soup

Cream of Endive Soup Recipe from Belgium - Delicious and Creamy

Region / culture: Belgium | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Cream of Endive Soup is a delicious and creamy soup that is perfect for a cozy night in or a fancy dinner party. This soup is made with belgian endive, onions, potatoes, chicken broth, and cream, creating a rich and flavorful dish that is sure to impress your guests.

History

Cream of Endive Soup has been a popular dish in Belgium for centuries. Endive, also known as chicory, has a slightly bitter flavor that pairs perfectly with the creamy texture of the soup. This soup is often served as a starter or as a light meal on its own.

Ingredients

2 heads of belgian endive, cored
1 white onion, diced
1 clove of garlic, minced
2 tbsp of butter
2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
2 cups of chicken broth
1 cup of milk or cream
salt and pepper, to taste
chopped chives
dill sprigs (for garnish)

How to prepare

Mince the endives, but keep a few small leaves aside for garnish.
In a pan, sauté the onion, garlic, and minced endives in butter for 3 minutes.
Add the potatoes and chicken broth to the pan. Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for approximately 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are soft.
Transfer the mixture to a blender container or use an immersion blender.
Blend the mixture until it becomes smooth.
Add the milk, salt, and pepper to the blender and blend again.
Serve the soup hot or cold, and garnish it with chopped endive leaves, chives, and dill.

Variations

Add cooked bacon or ham for a smoky flavor.
Substitute the cream with coconut milk for a dairy-free option.
Add a splash of white wine for a more complex flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to core the endive before mincing it to remove any tough or bitter parts.

- For a smoother soup, blend the mixture until it is completely smooth.

- Adjust the seasoning to your taste by adding more salt and pepper as needed.

- Garnish the soup with fresh herbs like chives and dill for a pop of color and flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Cream of Endive Soup can be served as a starter before a main course or as a light meal on its own. Pair it with a crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to simmer the potatoes until they are soft to ensure a smooth and creamy texture.

- Blend the soup until it is completely smooth for a velvety finish.

Ingredient Substitutions

Substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.

- Use leeks instead of onions for a milder flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

Cream of Endive Soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it on the stove or in the microwave before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Cream of Endive Soup in a bowl garnished with fresh herbs and a drizzle of cream for an elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Cream of Endive Soup with a crisp white wine like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc for a perfect pairing.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover Cream of Endive Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it on the stove or in the microwave until heated through before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

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

Carbohydrates

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

Fats

Each serving of Cream of Endive Soup contains approximately 15 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Cream of Endive Soup contains approximately 5 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Cream of Endive Soup is a good source of vitamin C, vitamin K, and potassium.

Alergens

Cream of Endive Soup contains dairy (cream) and may not be suitable for those with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies.

Summary

Cream of Endive Soup is a creamy and flavorful dish that is relatively low in calories and high in vitamins and minerals. It is a great option for a light and healthy meal.

Summary

Cream of Endive Soup is a delicious and creamy dish that is perfect for any occasion. With its rich flavor and velvety texture, this soup is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of discovering this recipe for the first time is a cherished one. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl living in the small town of Provence, France. My mother had invited a group of friends over for dinner, and I wanted to impress them with a new and delicious dish. I decided to try my hand at making cream of endive soup, a recipe I had heard was a favorite among the locals.

I had never made this soup before, but I was determined to give it a try. I gathered all the necessary ingredients - fresh endive, onions, garlic, butter, chicken broth, cream, and a few secret spices that I had learned about from a neighbor. As I chopped and sautéed the vegetables, the kitchen filled with the enticing aroma of the onions caramelizing in the butter.

As the soup simmered on the stove, I couldn't help but feel a sense of pride and excitement. I knew that this dish had the potential to be something truly special. When my guests arrived, they were greeted by the tantalizing smell of the soup wafting through the house. They eagerly sat down at the table, their mouths watering in anticipation of the meal to come.

I ladled the creamy soup into bowls, garnishing each one with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh herbs. As my guests took their first spoonfuls, their eyes widened in delight. The flavors of the endive, onions, and spices melded together in perfect harmony, creating a dish that was both comforting and sophisticated.

As the evening went on, my guests couldn't stop raving about the soup. They asked me how I had learned to make such a delicious dish, and I proudly told them about the neighbor who had shared her recipe with me. They praised my cooking skills and urged me to continue experimenting with new recipes in the future.

From that moment on, cream of endive soup became a staple in my cooking repertoire. I made it for family dinners, dinner parties, and even just for myself on cold winter nights. Each time I made the soup, it brought back fond memories of that first successful attempt in my mother's kitchen.

Over the years, I have continued to refine and perfect the recipe for cream of endive soup. I have added my own touches and variations, making it truly my own. But no matter how many times I make it, the soup always transports me back to that magical evening in Provence, when I first discovered the joy of cooking and sharing a delicious meal with loved ones.

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. May it bring warmth, comfort, and joy to your heart, just as it has to mine. And remember, the key to a truly delicious dish lies not just in the ingredients, but in the love and care that you pour into it. Bon appétit!