Carrot & Parsnip Soup Recipe
A delightful blend of sweet carrots and earthy parsnips, this soup is perfect for a cozy meal. It's both nutritious and easy to prepare, making it an ideal choice for a hearty lunch or a light dinner.
Carrot and parsnip soup is a traditional dish enjoyed in various cultures, especially in the UK where root vegetables are a staple. This comforting soup is often served during the colder months and is a favourite in many households.
Ingredients for the Carrot & Parsnip Soup
- 500g carrots, peeled and chopped
- 500g parsnips, peeled and chopped
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 litre vegetable stock
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Preparation Instructions for Carrot & Parsnip Soup
- Prepare the Vegetables:
- Peel and chop the carrots and parsnips into even pieces.
- Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic cloves.
- Cooking the Vegetables:
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until the onion becomes translucent.
- Add the Carrots and Parsnips:
- Add the chopped carrots and parsnips to the pot.
- Sauté for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add the Stock:
- Pour in the vegetable stock, ensuring the vegetables are covered.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 25-30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
- Blend the Soup:
- Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth.
- If using a regular blender, blend in batches and return the soup to the pot.
- Season and Serve:
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
How to Store Carrot & Parsnip Soup
- Refrigeration:
- Allow the soup to cool completely.
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Freezing:
- Pour the cooled soup into freezer-safe containers or bags.
- Freeze for up to 3 months.
- Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheating:
- Reheat in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until hot.
- Alternatively, reheat in the microwave, stirring every 1-2 minutes until heated through.
Nutritional Information for Carrot & Parsnip Soup
- Calories: 180 kcal per serving
- Protein: 3g
- Fat: 7g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 7g
- Sugars: 12g
- Sodium: 900mg
FAQ about the Carrot & Parsnip Soup
Can I make this soup vegan?
- Yes, this soup is already vegan if you use vegetable stock.
Can I add other vegetables?
- Yes, you can add other root vegetables like potatoes or sweet potatoes for variation.
What if I don’t have an immersion blender?
- You can use a regular blender. Blend the soup in batches and be careful with the hot liquid.
How can I make the soup creamier?
- For a creamier texture, you can add a splash of coconut milk or cream after blending.
Is this soup gluten-free?
- Yes, as long as the vegetable stock is gluten-free, the soup is naturally gluten-free.
Final Thoughts
Carrot & Parsnip Soup is a warm and comforting dish that's easy to make and packed with nutrients. Serve it with a slice of crusty bread for a complete meal. Enjoy this delightful soup on a cold day to warm up from the inside out.