Carrot potato soup

Comforting and simple, this carrot potato soup is a must-make for soup season. It’s economical, easy to throw together with a few basic ingredients, freezes perfectly, and it’s so delicious. Ideal for family dinners or cozy nights in, this hearty recipe showcases vibrant flavors that will warm your soul.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just a handful of ingredients and straightforward steps, making carrot potato soup is quick and hassle-free.
• Versatile Dish: This soup can be served as a starter or main course, making it suitable for various occasions.
• Freezes Well: Perfect for meal prepping! You can make a big batch and freeze portions for later enjoyment.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with nutritious vegetables, this soup is both wholesome and nourishing.
• Customizable Flavor: Feel free to adjust the herbs and spices according to your taste preferences, allowing you to create your own unique version.

Tools and Preparation

To make this carrot potato soup successfully, having the right tools on hand is essential. Below are some essential kitchen tools you’ll need.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Wooden spoon
• Stand blender or hand blender
• Measuring cups
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: A spacious pot allows even cooking of all ingredients while preventing splatters during simmering.
• Wooden spoon: This tool is perfect for stirring without scratching your pot’s surface.
• Stand blender or hand blender: Blending the soup creates a creamy texture; either tool will work well for this step.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make the delicious carrot potato soup:

• 1 Tbsp butter or olive oil
• 1 medium-sized onion, diced (any colour is fine)
• 1 garlic clove, minced or grated
• 1 celery stick, chopped
• 1 lb (450 grams) carrots, peeled and diced*
• 1 lb (450 grams) potatoes, peeled and diced*
• 1 tsp Italian herbs
• ¼ tsp dried thyme
• ¼ tsp dried parsley (optional)
• ⅛ tsp black pepper, plus more to serve
• ½ tsp fine salt, plus more to taste*
• 2 ½ cups (600ml) low-sodium vegetable broth
• 2-3 Tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

How to Make Carrot potato soup

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Melt the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion along with a pinch of salt and pepper. Sauté for about 5 minutes until soft and translucent. Then add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 2: Add Vegetables and Herbs

Add the diced carrots, potatoes, chopped celery, Italian herbs, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir well and cook for about 2–3 minutes to enhance their flavors.

Step 3: Simmer the Soup

Stir in the vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover with a lid and let it cook for about 20 minutes while stirring occasionally.

Step 4: Blend Until Smooth

Turn off the heat once cooked through. Allow it to cool slightly before transferring approximately one cup of the soup to a stand blender. Blend until smooth but be careful not to over-blend. Alternatively, you can use a hand blender directly in the pot.

Step 5: Combine and Adjust Seasoning

Return the blended soup back into the pot. Stir well to combine all ingredients again. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed based on your broth’s flavor profile. Finally, stir in fresh parsley.

Step 6: Serve Your Soup

Serve hot with freshly ground black pepper on top, extra parsley if desired, and crusty bread on the side for dipping.

Enjoy this creamy carrot potato soup that brings warmth and comfort any day!

How to Serve Carrot potato soup

Carrot potato soup is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving it as an appetizer or a main course, these suggestions will enhance the experience and make your meal even more delightful.

With Crusty Bread

• Pairing your soup with slices of crusty bread is a classic choice. The bread can be used to soak up the delicious broth, adding extra texture and flavor.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Garnishing the soup with fresh parsley or other herbs adds a pop of color and freshness. It elevates the dish visually and enhances its flavor profile.

Add a Drizzle of Olive Oil

• A light drizzle of olive oil on top before serving can add richness. It complements the natural flavors of the soup beautifully.

Serve with Cheese

• Grated cheese, such as cheddar or parmesan, can be sprinkled on top for added creaminess and a savory kick. Let it melt slightly for an indulgent touch.

How to Perfect Carrot potato soup

To make your carrot potato soup truly exceptional, consider these tips that will elevate its taste and texture.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh carrots and potatoes will provide better flavor compared to older produce. Always choose the best quality ingredients.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste your soup before serving and adjust salt and pepper as necessary. Every broth has a different salt level, so it’s essential to customize.
• Blend for creaminess: Blending part of the soup creates a smooth texture. If you prefer a chunkier version, just partially blend for balance.
• Experiment with spices: Feel free to add different herbs or spices like cumin or paprika to give your soup a unique twist that suits your taste.

Best Side Dishes for Carrot potato soup

Serving side dishes alongside carrot potato soup can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Garden Salad: A fresh garden salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette pairs well with the warmth of the soup.
2. Grilled Cheese Sandwich: A classic grilled cheese sandwich offers delicious contrast in texture and flavor, making it a perfect accompaniment.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Serve some roasted seasonal vegetables for added nutrition and complementary flavors that enhance the overall meal.
4. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with lemon dressing brings protein and freshness, creating an excellent balance with the warm soup.
5. Stuffed Peppers: Stuffed bell peppers filled with rice and vegetables create a hearty side that aligns well with the comforting nature of the soup.
6. Savory Scones: Cheesy or herb scones provide great dipping options while adding an enjoyable texture contrast to each spoonful of soup.
7. Pita Chips with Hummus: Crispy pita chips served alongside hummus offer a crunchy side that adds excitement to each bite of carrot potato soup.
8. Baked Potatoes: Simple baked potatoes topped with sour cream and chives serve as a filling side dish that complements the flavors of the soup wonderfully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making carrot potato soup can be simple, but a few common mistakes can affect the final result. Here are some tips to steer clear of errors.

• Skipping the aromatics: Not sautéing the onion and garlic can lead to a bland soup. Always cook them first to build flavor.
• Overcooking vegetables: Cooking the carrots and potatoes for too long can make them mushy. Aim for tender but firm vegetables for better texture.
• Ignoring seasoning: Under-seasoning the soup can make it taste flat. Taste as you go and adjust salt and spices accordingly.
• Not blending enough: If you skip blending or don’t blend enough, your soup may be too chunky. Blend until you reach your desired consistency for creaminess.
• Using low-quality broth: Poor-quality broth can negatively impact flavor. Always use a good-quality low-sodium vegetable broth for best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover carrot potato soup in an airtight container in the fridge.
• It will keep well for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Carrot potato soup

• Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. Label containers with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating Carrot potato soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and place soup in an oven-safe dish, covering it with foil. Heat until warm, about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Transfer to a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on medium power for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Pour the soup into a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is carrot potato soup?

Carrot potato soup is a creamy and comforting dish made primarily from carrots and potatoes blended together with broth and seasonings.

Can I customize my carrot potato soup?

Absolutely! You can add different herbs, spices, or even other vegetables like bell peppers or peas to enhance flavor and nutrition.

How do I thicken carrot potato soup?

For a thicker consistency, you can blend more of the cooked vegetables or add a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with water before heating.

Can I use chicken broth instead of vegetable broth?

Yes, using chicken broth will add extra flavor, though it changes the nature of the recipe slightly.

How long does carrot potato soup last?

When stored properly in the refrigerator, this soup lasts about 3-4 days. In the freezer, it keeps well for up to 3 months.

Final Thoughts

This carrot potato soup is a delightful combination of flavors that’s both comforting and economical. It’s perfect for meal prep since it freezes well and allows for various customizations—feel free to experiment with additional vegetables or spices based on your taste preferences!