Refreshing Creamed Zuccini Soup

Creamy Zuccini Soup Recipe from Bulgaria | Refreshing and Delicious

Region / culture: Bulgaria | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 15 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Creamed zucchini soup is a delicious and refreshing dish that is perfect for any time of the year. This creamy soup is packed with flavor and nutrients, making it a great option for a healthy and satisfying meal.

History

Creamed zucchini soup has been a popular dish for many years, especially in Mediterranean cuisine. Zucchini, also known as courgette, is a versatile vegetable that is often used in soups, stews, and salads. The creamy texture of this soup comes from pureeing the zucchini and potatoes together, creating a smooth and velvety consistency.

Ingredients

2 medium zucchini (400 g), washed, cut into cubes
2 medium potatoes (225 g), washed, peeled, cut into cubes
1 large onion (200 g), peeled and chopped
1 tbsp butter or oil
1 tbsp paprika
2 cubes chicken stock
1 liter plus 0.5 cup water
4 garlic cloves, minced or chopped
1 tbsp dill (either fresh or dill weed)

How to prepare

In a 1.5 liter lidded pan, heat the butter or oil. Add the onions and stir to coat them with butter. Sprinkle the paprika and stir to coat the onions. Add the zucchini and potatoes and stir well. Pour in the water and add the stock cubes. Cover the pan and simmer for about 15 minutes.
Remove the pan from the heat. Stir in the minced garlic and dill. Allow the mixture to cool for 10 minutes. Drain the liquid (and keep it!). Puree the vegetables in a food processor or use the puree attachment of your mixer. Combine the puree with the reserved liquid and stir well.

Variations

Add a splash of cream or coconut milk for a richer and creamier soup.
Stir in some cooked chicken or shrimp for added protein.
Top the soup with croutons or grated cheese for extra flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to wash and peel the zucchini and potatoes before cutting them into cubes.

- Adding chicken stock cubes to the soup will enhance the flavor and add depth to the dish.

- Pureeing the vegetables in a food processor or blender will create a smooth and creamy texture.

- Garnish the soup with fresh herbs, such as dill, for added flavor and visual appeal.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the creamed zucchini soup hot with a side of crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Simmering the vegetables in chicken stock will infuse the soup with flavor.

- Pureeing the vegetables will create a smooth and creamy texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock for a vegetarian version of the soup.

- Substitute sweet potatoes for regular potatoes for a different flavor profile.

Make Ahead Tips

Creamed zucchini soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the soup on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the creamed zucchini soup with a drizzle of olive oil, a dollop of sour cream, and a sprinkle of fresh herbs for an elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair the creamed zucchini soup with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, or a light beer for a refreshing and satisfying meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover creamed zucchini soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the soup on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of creamed zucchini soup contains approximately 150 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of creamed zucchini soup contains approximately 20 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of creamed zucchini soup contains approximately 5 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of creamed zucchini soup contains approximately 3 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Creamed zucchini soup is rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin K, potassium, and magnesium.

Alergens

This recipe may contain allergens such as dairy (if using butter) and gluten (if using chicken stock cubes).

Summary

Creamed zucchini soup is a nutritious and low-calorie dish that is rich in vitamins and minerals. It is a great option for a healthy and satisfying meal.

Summary

Creamed zucchini soup is a delicious and nutritious dish that is perfect for any time of the year. This creamy soup is packed with flavor and nutrients, making it a great option for a healthy and satisfying meal.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the sense of anticipation I felt when I first saw this recipe for Refreshing Creamed Zucchini Soup. It was a warm summer day and I had just returned home from a visit to my friend Martha's house. Martha was known for her delicious garden-to-table recipes, and on this particular day she had served me a bowl of the most amazing soup I had ever tasted.

As I savored each spoonful of the creamy, flavorful soup, Martha shared with me the recipe and the story behind it. She explained that the secret to the soup's amazing taste was the fresh ingredients, especially the zucchinis that she had grown in her own garden. She also mentioned that the recipe had been passed down to her by her grandmother, who had learned it from a French chef many years ago.

I was instantly intrigued and knew that I had to learn how to make this soup for myself. Martha graciously agreed to teach me the recipe, and we spent the afternoon in her kitchen, chopping vegetables, simmering broth, and blending the ingredients into a velvety smooth soup.

As I watched Martha work her magic in the kitchen, I couldn't help but think back to my own childhood and the memories I had of cooking with my own grandmother. My grandmother was a talented cook who knew how to make the most delicious meals out of simple ingredients. She learned many of her recipes from her own mother and passed them down to me with love and care.

One of my favorite memories was the summer days we spent together in her garden, picking fresh vegetables and herbs to use in our meals. The smell of ripe tomatoes, fragrant basil, and earthy zucchinis filled the air as we worked side by side, preparing dishes that would later grace our dinner table.

It was during one of these summer days that my grandmother first introduced me to the joys of cooking with zucchinis. She showed me how to slice them thinly and sauté them with garlic and herbs, creating a simple yet delicious side dish that quickly became a family favorite.

Years later, as I stood in Martha's kitchen, learning how to make the Refreshing Creamed Zucchini Soup, I couldn't help but feel a sense of nostalgia for those days spent cooking with my grandmother. I could almost hear her voice guiding me through the steps, encouraging me to taste as I went and adjust the seasoning to my liking.

As Martha and I finished making the soup, I couldn't wait to taste the final result. I carefully ladled out a bowlful and took a tentative sip. The flavors exploded on my tongue, the creamy texture enveloping me in a warm embrace. It was everything I had hoped for and more.

From that day on, the Refreshing Creamed Zucchini Soup became a staple in my own kitchen. I made it for family gatherings, potlucks with friends, and even just for myself on a quiet evening at home. Each time I made it, I felt a connection to my grandmother and Martha, two strong women who had passed down their love of cooking and sharing good food with others.

Now, as I sit here writing this recipe down for future generations, I can't help but feel grateful for the lessons I have learned from these incredible women. Cooking has always been more than just a task for me, it's a way to connect with my past, honor those who came before me, and create memories that will last a lifetime.

So, if you ever find yourself craving a bowl of comforting, flavorful soup, give this recipe a try. I promise you won't be disappointed. And who knows, maybe one day you'll pass it down to your own loved ones, creating new memories and traditions along the way. Cooking truly is a gift that keeps on giving.