Spiced Carrot and Onion Soup Recipe
This Spiced Carrot and Onion Soup is a flavorful, hearty appetizer perfect for any occasion. Packed with the goodness of carrots, onions, and a touch of aromatic spices, it provides a comforting and satisfying start to any meal. Rich in taste and texture, this soup blends the natural sweetness of carrots with the deep flavors of onions and a variety of spices, making it a must-try for anyone looking for something unique and delicious.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Onion (finely chopped) | 1 medium |
| Carrots (chopped small) | 2 medium |
| Ginger (thinly sliced) | 1 inch |
| Cumin powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Turmeric powder | ½ teaspoon |
| Cinnamon powder | ¼ teaspoon |
| Milk | 1 cup |
| Vegetable stock | 2 cups |
| Butter | 1 tablespoon |
| Fresh coriander (for garnish) | A few sprigs |
| Salt | To taste |
| Sugar | To taste |
| Black pepper powder (crushed) | To taste |
| Cream (for garnish) | A swirl |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~140 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | ~25 g |
| Protein | ~2 g |
| Fat | ~5 g |
| Fiber | ~3 g |
| Sugars | ~9 g |
| Sodium | ~500 mg |
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Cuisine: Continental
Course: Appetizer
Diet: Vegetarian
Instructions
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Start with Sautéing the Aromatics:
Heat 1 tablespoon of butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Once the butter melts and begins to sizzle, add the finely chopped onions and sliced ginger. Sauté until the onions become soft and translucent, releasing their sweet aroma. This process usually takes about 5-7 minutes. -
-
Cook the Carrots:
Once the onions have softened, add the chopped carrots to the saucepan. Stir them into the onion mixture, ensuring they are well coated with the butter. Cover the saucepan and allow the carrots to cook for about 8-10 minutes until they become tender. -
Add the Spices:
In a small bowl, mix together the cumin powder, turmeric powder, cinnamon powder, salt, black pepper powder, and sugar. Add a small splash of water to create a spice slurry. Stir this mixture into the carrot and onion blend. Let the spices cook with the vegetables for an additional 2 minutes, allowing their flavors to infuse into the mixture. -
Cool and Blend:
Turn off the heat and let the mixture cool for a few minutes. Once it’s cooled down slightly, transfer the mixture to a blender. Add the milk and vegetable stock, then blend until smooth and creamy, forming a velvety puree. -
Heat the Soup:
Return the puree to the saucepan and bring it to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Stir occasionally and let it cook for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. If you prefer a thinner consistency, feel free to add more vegetable stock or water to adjust the texture to your liking. -
Final Touches:
Once the soup is hot and bubbling, taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or sugar, if needed. -
Serve and Garnish:
Pour the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh coriander leaves and a swirl of cream for added richness. Serve the Spiced Carrot and Onion Soup while it’s hot for the best experience.
Tips for the Best Spiced Carrot and Onion Soup
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Spices: Feel free to adjust the quantity of spices based on your taste. You can also experiment with adding a pinch of red chili powder for a bit of heat or some nutmeg for a warmer, more aromatic flavor.
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Creaminess: For a creamier version, you can substitute the milk with heavy cream or coconut milk, which will add richness to the soup.
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Serving Suggestions: This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, a side salad, or a light main course like Punjabi Tadka Dal, Bhindi Masala, or a soft Phulka (flatbread) for a complete meal.
Why You’ll Love This Soup
The Spiced Carrot and Onion Soup is more than just a simple appetizer. The balance of sweet and savory flavors from the carrots and onions, combined with the earthiness of turmeric and cumin, makes this soup an extraordinary treat. It’s the perfect option to serve during chilly evenings, festive dinners, or as a light starter for a special meal. Additionally, it’s easy to make and can be customized to fit your dietary preferences.
So, the next time you’re looking for something warming and flavorful, don’t hesitate to whip up this Spiced Carrot and Onion Soup. It’s simple, nutritious, and sure to become a family favorite!
Enjoy your homemade bowl of comfort and let the flavors unfold with every spoonful!
