How to Make French Spinach Soup (Soupe aux Épinards)
French Spinach Soup, or Soupe aux Épinards, is a delightful dish that offers a perfect blend of flavors while being simple to prepare. This velvety soup not only warms the heart but also packs a nutritious punch. Below, we’ll outline the steps to create this classic French delicacy.
Ingredients
To make a delicious French Spinach Soup, you will need the following ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 medium potato, peeled and diced
- 4 cups of fresh spinach, washed and roughly chopped
- 4 cups of vegetable broth (or chicken broth for non-vegetarians)
- 1 cup of heavy cream (optional for a richer taste)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh lemon juice (optional, for a tangy finish)
Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Base
In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and continue to sauté for another minute until fragrant.
Step 2: Add Potato and Broth
Next, add the diced potato to the pot, stirring to combine. Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth, bringing the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer until the potatoes are tender, which should take about 10-15 minutes.
Step 3: Incorporate the Spinach
Once the potatoes are cooked, add the chopped spinach to the pot. Stir well and allow the spinach to wilt, which should take about 2-3 minutes.
Step 4: Blend the Soup
Using an immersion blender, carefully blend the soup until smooth and creamy. If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can transfer the soup in batches to a regular blender. Just be sure to allow it to cool slightly before blending for safety.
Step 5: Add Cream and Seasoning
If you want a creamier consistency, stir in the heavy cream at this stage. Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. For a bright finish, consider adding a splash of fresh lemon juice.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Serve the French Spinach Soup hot, garnished with a swirl of cream or a sprinkle of croutons for added texture. This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a light salad for a complete meal.
Tips for the Best Soupe aux Épinards
For an extra flavor boost, consider adding herbs such as thyme or dill during the cooking process. You can also experiment with different greens, mixing spinach with kale or Swiss chard for a unique twist. Making this soup ahead of time can enhance its flavors, as they meld beautifully overnight in the refrigerator.
French Spinach Soup is not only delicious but also a fantastic way to incorporate leafy greens into your diet. Whether enjoyed as a light lunch, dinner starter, or even a comfort food on a chilly day, this soup is sure to impress.