Spiced Carrot Orange Soup

Spiced Carrot Orange Soup Recipe - Vegetarian Food

| Servings: 6 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Spiced Carrot Orange Soup is a delicious and nutritious dish that combines the sweetness of carrots with the tangy flavor of fresh orange juice. This soup is perfect for a cozy night in or as a starter for a dinner party.

History

This recipe has its roots in Middle Eastern cuisine, where the combination of spices and citrus fruits is commonly used in savory dishes. Carrots have been a staple in many cultures for centuries, prized for their sweet flavor and health benefits.

Ingredients

2 lb (907 g) thinly sliced carrots
2 tbsp peanut oil
2 cup chopped white onions
2 large diced celery stalks
4 cup water
1.5 cup fresh orange juice
0.25 cup dry white wine
1 tsp cumin
1 tsp coriander
1 tsp ginger
0.5 tsp nutmeg
1 cup soymilk
1 tsp salt
1 tsp freshly ground black pepper
3 tbsp freshly minced parsley
3 tbsp minced scallions

How to prepare

Reserve and set aside 0.5 lb (227 g) of carrots.
Heat oil in a large soup pot, then sauté onions and celery until golden.
Add all remaining ingredients except the reserved carrots.
Bring to a boil, then cover and simmer over moderate heat until the vegetables are tender.
Puree the mixture until smooth, then return to low heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
Let the soup stand for several hours before serving.
Just before serving, steam the reserved carrots until tender and stir them into the soup.

Variations

Add a pinch of cinnamon or cardamom for a warm and spicy twist.
Roast the carrots before adding them to the soup for a deeper flavor.
Garnish with toasted nuts or seeds for added crunch.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to slice the carrots thinly to ensure they cook evenly and blend smoothly.

- For a creamier texture, you can substitute the soymilk with coconut milk or heavy cream.

- Adjust the spices to your taste preferences - you can add more cumin for a smokier flavor or increase the ginger for a spicier kick.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this soup hot with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a sprinkle of fresh herbs for added flavor. Pair it with a crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Use a high-powered blender or immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth.

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

Ingredient Substitutions

Substitute vegetable broth for water for a richer flavor.

- Use almond milk or coconut milk instead of soymilk for a different taste.

Make Ahead Tips

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

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the soup with a swirl of coconut cream or a sprinkle of smoked paprika for a beautiful presentation. Serve in individual bowls with a sprig of fresh parsley on top.

Pairing Recommendations

This soup pairs well with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. For a non-alcoholic option, try serving with a sparkling water infused with citrus slices.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Spiced Carrot Orange Soup contains approximately 200 calories, making it a light and nutritious option for a meal or snack.

Carbohydrates

Carrots are a great source of carbohydrates, providing energy and fiber for a healthy digestive system. This soup is a satisfying and filling meal option for those looking to increase their carbohydrate intake.

Fats

The peanut oil in this recipe adds a healthy dose of monounsaturated fats, which are beneficial for heart health. This soup is a great option for those looking to incorporate more healthy fats into their diet.

Proteins

While this soup is not a significant source of protein, the soymilk adds a small amount of plant-based protein to the dish. Pairing this soup with a protein-rich main course can help balance out your meal.

Vitamins and minerals

Carrots are rich in vitamin A, which is essential for eye health and immune function. The orange juice in this recipe adds a boost of vitamin C, which is important for collagen production and skin health.

Alergens

This recipe contains peanuts and soy, which are common allergens. Be sure to check for any food allergies before serving this dish to guests.

Summary

Overall, Spiced Carrot Orange Soup is a healthy and flavorful dish that is rich in vitamins, minerals, and fiber. It is a great option for those looking to incorporate more vegetables into their diet.

Summary

Spiced Carrot Orange Soup is a flavorful and nutritious dish that is perfect for any occasion. With a blend of spices, citrus, and vegetables, this soup is sure to become a new favorite in your recipe collection. Enjoy the warmth and comfort of this delicious soup with your loved ones today!

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the thrill of stumbling upon this recipe for Spiced Carrot Orange Soup. It was a crisp autumn day, the leaves rustling under my feet as I made my way through the bustling farmer's market. The smells of fresh produce and baked goods filled the air, making my stomach rumble with hunger.

As I browsed the different stalls, my eyes landed on a beautiful display of vibrant orange carrots. The color was so striking against the green of the other vegetables, I couldn't resist picking up a bunch to take home. Little did I know that those carrots would lead me to discover one of my favorite soup recipes of all time.

When I got home, I set to work peeling and chopping the carrots, the sweet citrusy scent filling my kitchen. As I simmered the vegetables in a pot with fragrant spices and a splash of orange juice, the aroma that wafted through the air was simply intoxicating.

As the soup cooked, I couldn't help but think back to the various recipes I had collected over the years. From my mother's comforting chicken noodle soup to my neighbor's spicy chili, each dish held a special place in my heart. But there was something about this Spiced Carrot Orange Soup that stood out to me.

I recalled the time I had visited my friend Margaret, a talented cook with a passion for experimenting with new flavors. She had served me a bowl of this soup, explaining how the sweetness of the carrots paired perfectly with the tangy citrus notes. I had savored every spoonful, the warmth of the spices wrapping around me like a cozy blanket.

After that visit, I knew I had to recreate the recipe at home. With Margaret's guidance and a few tweaks of my own, I had soon perfected the balance of flavors, creating a soup that was a symphony of taste and texture.

As I stirred the pot, the soup thickening to a velvety consistency, I couldn't wait to taste the final result. Finally, I ladled a generous portion into a bowl, garnishing it with a dollop of creamy yogurt and a sprinkle of fresh herbs.

Taking my first spoonful, I closed my eyes and savored the flavors dancing on my tongue. The sweetness of the carrots was perfectly complemented by the bright citrus of the orange, while the spices added a subtle warmth that lingered on the palate.

I knew then and there that this recipe would become a staple in my kitchen, a dish that I would return to time and time again. It was a reminder of the joy and creativity that cooking brought into my life, a way to express myself and share my love with those around me.

And so, as I sat down to enjoy my bowl of Spiced Carrot Orange Soup, I couldn't help but feel grateful for the serendipitous encounter that had led me to discover this delicious recipe. It was a reminder that sometimes, the most unexpected moments could lead to the greatest discoveries, both in the kitchen and in life.