Carrot Soup
This comforting and healthy carrot soup is a vibrant blend of fresh carrots, savory onions, garlic, and warming spices. Quick to prepare and packed with nutrients, it’s perfect for any season and easy to customize with various flavorful variations. Ready in under 30 minutes, this smooth and nourishing soup makes a cozy meal that delights the senses.
- Author: Mary
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: International
- Diet: Gluten Free
Main Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh carrots, peeled and chopped
- 1 large onion, peeled and chopped
- 2–3 garlic cloves, minced
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 1 tsp fresh thyme or 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tsp cumin, ginger, or curry powder (optional)
Optional Variations & Garnishes
- Pinch of chili flakes or cayenne pepper for spicy kick
- 1 cup coconut milk to replace cream for creamy coconut variation
- 1 tbsp fresh grated ginger for ginger boost
- Cooked lentils or chickpeas for protein-packed addition
- Fresh parsley or chives for garnish
- Swirl of cream or coconut milk
- Toasted seeds or crunchy croutons
- Prep Your Veggies: Peel and roughly chop the carrots and onions. Mince the garlic so it blends evenly into the soup. This step ensures all ingredients cook uniformly and release their full flavors.
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onions and garlic, cooking until soft and fragrant without browning. This creates a savory foundation that enhances the soup’s overall depth.
- Add Carrots and Spices: Stir in your chopped carrots and any spices or herbs you’re using, allowing the aromas to intensify as they mingle during a brief cooking phase before adding liquids.
- Pour in Broth and Simmer: Add enough vegetable or chicken broth to cover the carrots completely. Bring it to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 20 minutes or until the carrots are fully tender and easy to mash with a spoon.
- Blend Until Smooth: Use an immersion blender to puree the soup directly in the pot or transfer batches to a blender. Blend until silky smooth, adding extra broth if needed for your preferred consistency.
- Adjust Seasonings and Serve: Taste your carrot soup and adjust salt, pepper, or spice levels as needed. Warm and comforting, it’s now ready to pour into bowls and enjoy! Garnish as desired with fresh herbs, cream, or crunchy toppings.
Notes
- Use fresh, firm carrots for the best natural sweetness and texture.
- Don’t skip sautéing onions and garlic to build complex flavors.
- Blend thoroughly for a smooth, luxurious texture.
- Introduce warming spices gradually to balance flavors without overpowering.
- Finish soup with a splash of lemon juice or vinegar to brighten the taste.
- Frozen carrots can be used; adjust cooking time accordingly.
- To thicken soup, reduce liquid or simmer longer; to thin, add broth or water.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Reheat gently on the stove, adding broth or water if needed.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: carrot soup, healthy soup, easy soup recipe, vegetarian soup, vegan soup, gluten free, comforting meal, quick soup