How to Make French Cream of Carrot Soup
French Cream of Carrot Soup is a delightful and comforting dish that showcases the natural sweetness of carrots alongside the rich flavors of cream and herbs. This recipe is perfect for a cozy dinner or as a starter for a gourmet meal. Here’s how to make this delicious soup at home.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) fresh carrots, peeled and chopped
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups (1 liter) vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs (such as thyme or parsley) for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Sautéing the Vegetables
In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Once the butter is melted, add the diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until it becomes translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
Step 2: Cooking the Carrots
Add the chopped carrots to the pot and stir well to combine. Cook for 5-7 minutes, allowing the carrots to soften slightly. This step enhances the flavors and prepares the carrots for blending.
Step 3: Adding the Broth
Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth, making sure the carrots are fully submerged. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the carrots are tender.
Step 4: Blending the Soup
Once the carrots are soft, remove the pot from the heat. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until it reaches a smooth consistency. Alternatively, you can transfer the soup in batches to a blender for a finer texture. Be cautious with hot liquids!
Step 5: Adding Cream and Seasoning
After blending, return the soup to a gentle heat and stir in the heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste, allowing the soup to warm through without boiling. This will keep the cream from curdling.
Step 6: Serving
Serve the French Cream of Carrot Soup hot, garnished with fresh herbs like thyme or parsley for a touch of color and flavor. Optionally, you can drizzle a little additional cream on top for presentation.
Tips for the Perfect Soup
- For added flavor, consider incorporating spices such as ginger or nutmeg.
- Using organic carrots will enhance the soup's sweetness and nutritional value.
- To make the soup vegan, replace the heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based cream alternative.
This French Cream of Carrot Soup is not only delicious but also easy to prepare, making it an ideal choice for any home cook. Pair it with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal that your family and guests will love.