How to Make French Roasted Bell Pepper Soup
French roasted bell pepper soup is a delightful, flavorful dish that can warm you up on a chilly day. Roasting the peppers brings out their natural sweetness and infuses the soup with a rich, smoky flavor. In this article, we’ll guide you through the steps to make this simple yet delicious soup from scratch.
Ingredients
To make French roasted bell pepper soup, you will need the following ingredients:
- 4 large bell peppers (red, yellow, or a combination)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Roast the Bell Peppers
Begin by preheating your oven to 450°F (230°C). Place the whole bell peppers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Roast them in the oven for about 25-30 minutes, turning occasionally until the skin is charred and blistered. Once roasted, remove them from the oven and place them in a covered bowl for about 10 minutes. This will help loosen the skin.
Step 2: Prepare the Soup Base
While the peppers are cooling, heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
Step 3: Peel the Peppers
After the peppers have cooled, peel off the charred skin and remove the seeds. Chop the roasted peppers into smaller pieces.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Add the chopped roasted peppers to the pot with the onions and garlic. Pour in the vegetable broth and add the dried thyme. Stir to combine all the ingredients well.
Step 5: Simmer the Soup
Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 6: Blend the Soup
Once the soup has simmered, remove it from the heat and use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. If you prefer a chunkier texture, you can blend only half of the soup and leave the rest as is. Alternatively, you can carefully transfer the soup in batches to a countertop blender.
Step 7: Season and Serve
Taste the soup and add salt and pepper as needed. Once seasoned to your liking, return the pot to low heat to warm it up again if necessary. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil or parsley for a pop of color and added flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This French roasted bell pepper soup pairs wonderfully with crusty French bread or a simple green salad. You can also add a dollop of crème fraîche or a sprinkle of goat cheese for an extra layer of richness.
Storage
If you have leftovers, store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can also freeze the soup for up to 3 months, making it a great make-ahead meal. Simply reheat on the stove or in the microwave when ready to enjoy.
Making French roasted bell pepper soup is a rewarding culinary experience that is both easy and satisfying. With its vibrant colors and bold flavors, this soup is sure to become a favorite in your home. Enjoy your delicious creation!