Curried Carrot Soup

Curried Carrot Soup Recipe from Guinea with Butter, Onion, and Chicken Stock

Region / culture: Guinea | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 35 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Curried Carrot Soup is a delicious and comforting dish that is perfect for a cozy night in or a dinner party. This soup is packed with flavor from the curry powder and vegetables, making it a nutritious and satisfying meal.

History

Curried Carrot Soup has its origins in Indian cuisine, where curry powder is commonly used to add a spicy and aromatic flavor to dishes. The combination of carrots, celery, and onions in this soup creates a rich and hearty base that is perfect for a cold winter day.

Ingredients

1 tbsp butter
0.5 large onion, chopped
6 carrots, peeled and chopped
1 celery stalk, chopped
1 garlic clove, minced
2 tbsp curry powder
8 cups chicken stock
black pepper
salt to taste

How to prepare

In a 3 qt (2.84 liter) pot, melt the butter.
Add the veggies and garlic, and sauté for 5 minutes.
Add the curry powder and cook for several more minutes.
Add the stock and bring it to a boil, then lower the heat and simmer for 30 minutes.
Purée the mixture and season it to taste.
Sprinkle with chives to enhance the appearance of the soup.

Variations

Add a can of coconut milk for a creamy and tropical twist.
Substitute sweet potatoes for carrots for a different flavor profile.
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to sauté the vegetables before adding the curry powder to enhance the flavors of the soup.

- Use a high-quality curry powder for the best results.

- Adjust the amount of curry powder to suit your taste preferences.

- Garnish the soup with fresh herbs or a dollop of yogurt for added flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Curried Carrot Soup with a side of crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal. Garnish with a dollop of yogurt or a sprinkle of fresh herbs for added flavor.

Cooking Techniques

Use an immersion blender to purée the soup directly in the pot for a smoother texture.

- Simmer the soup on low heat to allow the flavors to meld together.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use olive oil instead of butter for a dairy-free option.

- Substitute vegetable broth for chicken stock for a vegetarian version.

Make Ahead Tips

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

Presentation Ideas

Serve the Curried Carrot Soup in individual bowls and garnish with a swirl of cream or a sprinkle of chopped chives for an elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair this soup with a crisp white wine, such as a Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay, for a perfect complement to the spicy flavors.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover Curried Carrot Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Curried Carrot Soup contains approximately 150 calories, making it a light and satisfying meal option.

Carbohydrates

Carrots are a good source of carbohydrates, providing energy for the body. This soup is a great way to incorporate more complex carbohydrates into your diet.

Fats

The butter in this recipe adds a rich and creamy texture to the soup. While butter is high in saturated fats, it can be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Proteins

This soup is not a significant source of protein, but you can add cooked chicken or tofu to increase the protein content.

Vitamins and minerals

Carrots are rich in vitamin A, which is important for eye health. They also contain vitamin C, potassium, and fiber, making them a nutritious addition to this soup.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (butter) and may not be suitable for individuals with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies.

Summary

Curried Carrot Soup is a nutritious and flavorful dish that is low in calories and high in vitamins and minerals. It is a great option for a light and healthy meal.

Summary

Curried Carrot Soup is a delicious and nutritious dish that is perfect for a light and satisfying meal. Packed with flavor and vitamins, this soup is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.

How did I get this recipe?

I distinctly remember the first time I saw this recipe for Curried Carrot Soup. It was a cold and blustery day in November, and I was visiting my dear friend Margaret for our weekly knitting club. As we sat around the cozy fire, sipping on hot cups of tea and chatting about everything under the sun, Margaret suddenly excused herself to go check on dinner.

I watched as she disappeared into the kitchen, the delicious aroma of spices wafting through the air. Curious, I followed her and peeked over her shoulder to see what she was cooking. To my surprise, she was whipping up a batch of the most vibrant and fragrant soup I had ever seen - Curried Carrot Soup.

Intrigued, I asked Margaret for the recipe, and she gladly shared it with me. As she explained the ingredients and method of preparation, I was captivated by the simplicity and elegance of the dish. Carrots, onions, garlic, curry powder, and coconut milk all came together to create a symphony of flavors that danced on my taste buds.

From that moment on, Curried Carrot Soup became a staple in my kitchen. I made it for family gatherings, potlucks, and even just for cozy nights in with a good book. Over the years, I have perfected the recipe, tweaking it here and there to suit my own taste preferences.

But the story of how I learned to make Curried Carrot Soup doesn't end with Margaret. As I shared the recipe with friends and family, I discovered that everyone had their own unique twist on it. Some added a splash of citrus juice for brightness, while others threw in a handful of fresh herbs for an extra layer of flavor.

One of my favorite variations of the recipe came from my neighbor Mrs. Jenkins, who grew her own carrots in her backyard garden. She would generously gift me with a bundle of fresh carrots every summer, and I would use them to make the most delicious Curried Carrot Soup I had ever tasted.

As I continued to cook and experiment with the recipe, I also started to collect new versions of it from different sources. I attended cooking classes, read cookbooks, and scoured the internet for inspiration. Each new iteration of Curried Carrot Soup that I came across added a new dimension to my culinary repertoire.

One particularly memorable experience was when I traveled to India and had the opportunity to taste authentic Indian curries made with locally sourced ingredients. The complex blend of spices and aromatics in these dishes opened my eyes to a whole new world of flavor possibilities.

Upon returning home, I immediately set to work recreating the flavors of India in my own kitchen. I added garam masala, turmeric, and cumin to my Curried Carrot Soup, creating a fusion of Indian and Western flavors that was truly divine.

As the years went by, my collection of Curried Carrot Soup recipes grew ever larger. Each version had its own story behind it - a memory of a special occasion, a cherished friendship, or a culinary adventure.

But no matter how many variations of the recipe I tried, the original one that Margaret shared with me will always hold a special place in my heart. It was the catalyst that sparked my love for cooking and inspired me to explore the vast and wonderful world of flavors that exists in our food.

So the next time you find yourself in need of a comforting and nourishing meal, why not give Curried Carrot Soup a try? Who knows, you may just discover a new favorite recipe that will become a cherished part of your own culinary journey.