| Prep: 15 mins | Cook: 25 mins | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 85 | 3g | 0g | 15g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 7g | 4g | 2g | 0.8g |
Today, I’d like to share with you a delightful soup that continues to bring warmth and nourishment to my family table: The Carrot and Coriander Soup. Growing up in New Jersey, with Italian-American traditions forming the bedrock of every meal’s narrative, I have a near and dear fondness for dishes that echo the sentiments of family, unity, and hearty sustenance. Yet, sometimes, the culinary journey to something special takes us outside the confines of traditional family recipes. Such is the case with this vegetable-based treasure that everyone can enjoy.
A Healthful Melange of Vegetables
The Carrot and Coriander Soup combines the earthy sweetness of carrots with the lemony tinge of coriander, coming together in a soup that is not only tastefully delightful but also a nutritional powerhouse. Carrots, as we know, are a great source of beta carotene, fiber, K1 vitamin, and antioxidants, lending a powerful boost to eye health and maintaining a robust immune system (source). The coriander, other than its refreshing taste, contributes a cocktail of beneficial bioactive compounds (source). A soup with such plentiful health benefits is certainly one to take notice.
Pairing with Perfection
The richness of the soup pairs effortlessly with lighter dishes, creating a harmonious symphony of flavor profiles. It beautifully complements a crisp, fresh salad or a slice of sourdough bread lightly brushed with extra-virgin olive oil. If you’re looking to stay true to some roots, try it with a side of garlic sauteed broccoli rabe or an eggplant parmigiana sandwich. This versatility only adds to the charm of this velvety Carrot and Coriander Soup.
To me, sundry flavors in food are much akin to our divergent life stories, intersecting at unexpected crossroads. At the heart of it, whether it’s a simple pasta dish from my Italian grandparents or a vibrant, heartwarming soup like this one, the essence is the same: bringing family, friends and loved ones together over the shared love for food and celebrating the everyday joy of a shared meal — the quintessential ‘La vita è bella’ outlook.
I’ve grown to love and carry this sentiment into my future generations, as a grandfather now, enjoying long hikes and spending quality time with my family, cherishing every moment the table brings us together, one meal at a time. I hope this Carrot and Coriander Soup brings as much warmth and joy to your table as it does mine. Buon appétito!
What You’ll Need
- 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 potato, chopped
- 1.5 pounds of carrots, peeled and chopped
- 4.5 cups vegetable stock
- Handful of fresh coriander, finely chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Method
Step One
Start by heating the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chopped onion and cook until it becomes translucent and soft. This usually takes about 5 minutes.
Step Two
Next, stir in the ground coriander and cook for another minute. This will allow the spice to release its aroma and flavor.
Step Three
Add the chopped potato and carrots to the pot. Cook these for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. This step will slightly soften the vegetables and blend the flavors together.
Step Four
Now it’s time to add the vegetable stock. Pour it into the pot, ensuring that all the vegetables are submerged. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the carrots and potatoes are tender.
Step Five
Once the vegetables are tender, remove the pot from the heat. Allow the soup to cool a little bit, then puree it in a blender or food processor until smooth. Do this in batches if necessary and be careful to avoid hot splashes.
Step Six
Return the pureed soup back to the pot and reheat gently. Stir in the finely chopped fresh coriander and season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve your Carrot and Coriander Soup hot.
