Transform carrots into a velvety delight: master the art of cream-free carrot soup

Indulge in the velvety richness of carrot soup without the guilt of heavy cream. This delectable recipe offers a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds and nourish your body. Follow these simple steps to create a comforting and creamy soup that’s perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound carrots, peeled and chopped
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Sauté the Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the Carrots: Add the chopped carrots to the pot and stir to combine. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the carrots begin to soften.
3. Deglaze with Broth: Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the carrots are tender.
4. Purée the Soup: Using an immersion blender or a regular blender, purée the soup until smooth and creamy.
5. Season to Taste: Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Add more vegetable broth if desired for a thinner consistency.
6. Garnish and Serve: Garnish the soup with chopped fresh parsley and serve warm with crusty bread or crackers.

Tips for a Richer Flavor:

• Use Roasted Carrots: Roasting the carrots before adding them to the soup enhances their sweetness and depth of flavor.
• Add a Touch of Nutmeg: A pinch of nutmeg adds a subtle warmth and complexity to the soup.
• Use a Roux: If you prefer a thicker soup, make a roux by whisking together 2 tablespoons of flour and 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the roux to the soup and cook for a few minutes before adding the broth.

Variations:

• Spicy Carrot Soup: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
• Creamy Carrot and Ginger Soup: Add 1 tablespoon of grated fresh ginger to the soup for a refreshing twist.
• Carrot and Sweet Potato Soup: Add 1 cup of peeled and chopped sweet potatoes to the soup for a sweeter and more vibrant flavor.

Health Benefits of Carrot Soup:

• Rich in Antioxidants: Carrots are packed with antioxidants that protect against cellular damage and inflammation.
• Boosts Immune System: The high vitamin C content in carrots supports a healthy immune system.
• Improves Vision: Carrots are a good source of vitamin A, which is essential for eye health.
• Low in Calories and Fat: This soup is a low-calorie and low-fat option that’s perfect for weight management or healthy eating.

FAQ:

• Can I use unsalted vegetable broth? Yes, you can use unsalted vegetable broth. If using unsalted broth, season the soup with salt to taste.
• Can I freeze carrot soup? Yes, carrot soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. Allow the soup to cool completely before freezing in airtight containers.
• How can I make the soup vegan? To make the soup vegan, replace the butter with vegan butter or olive oil.
• Can I add other vegetables to the soup? Yes, you can add other vegetables such as celery, parsnips, or potatoes to the soup for added flavor and nutrition.
• What can I serve with carrot soup? Carrot soup can be served with crusty bread, crackers, or a side salad.