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. Whether you need a quick weeknight meal or a cozy dish for entertaining, this versatile soup fits the bill perfectly.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just a handful of ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is beginner-friendly.
• Comforting Flavor: The combination of carrots and potatoes creates a warm, hearty flavor that everyone will enjoy.
• Freezes Well: Make a big batch and store leftovers in the freezer for quick meals later.
• Healthy Option: Packed with vegetables, this soup is low in calories but high in nutrients.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite herbs or spices to enhance the flavor profile.

Tools and Preparation

To create the best carrot potato soup, having the right tools makes all the difference. Here are some essentials you will need.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Stand blender or hand blender
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: A sturdy pot allows even cooking and can hold all your ingredients comfortably.
• Knife: A sharp knife makes chopping vegetables quick and safe.
• Stand blender or hand blender: Blending your soup gives it that creamy texture which elevates the whole dish.

Ingredients

To make this delightful carrot potato soup, gather the following ingredients:

• 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 onion along with a pinch of salt and pepper. Sauté for about 5 minutes until soft and translucent. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 2: Add Vegetables & Herbs

Add the diced carrots, potatoes, celery, Italian herbs, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir everything together well. Cook for about 2-3 minutes to enhance their flavors.

Step 3: Simmer

Pour in the vegetable broth. Bring to a boil; then reduce heat to a simmer. Cover with a lid and cook for approximately 20 minutes while stirring occasionally.

Step 4: Blend for Creaminess

Turn off the heat and let it cool slightly. Transfer about one cup of the soup to a stand blender. Blend until smooth but be careful as it’s still hot! Alternatively, you can use a hand blender directly in the pot if preferred.

Step 5: Combine & Adjust Seasoning

Return the blended soup back into the pot. Stir well to combine everything again. Taste your soup; depending on your broth’s saltiness, you may want to adjust seasoning before adding fresh parsley.

Step 6: Serve

Serve your carrot potato soup hot with freshly ground black pepper on top, extra parsley if desired, and some crusty bread on the side for dipping!

Enjoy your nourishing bowl of carrot potato soup!

How to Serve Carrot potato soup

Carrot potato soup is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you prefer it as a light meal or paired with various accompaniments, there are plenty of options to enhance your dining experience.

With Crusty Bread

• Serve the soup with warm, crusty bread for dipping. The bread adds texture and helps soak up the delicious broth.

With Fresh Herbs

• Garnish each bowl with freshly chopped parsley or chives. This adds a pop of color and enhances the flavor profile of the soup.

With Cream or Yogurt

• For added creaminess, swirl in a dollop of plant-based yogurt or cream. This will make the soup richer while keeping it vegan-friendly.

With Roasted Seeds

• Sprinkle toasted pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds on top for a crunchy contrast. They add healthy fats and an extra layer of flavor.

As a Starter

• Serve small portions of carrot potato soup as an appetizer before the main course. It’s a great way to start off any meal.

How to Perfect Carrot potato soup

To ensure your carrot potato soup reaches its full potential, consider these helpful tips.

• Use fresh vegetables: Fresh carrots and potatoes will provide the best flavor and texture, making your soup more vibrant.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste the soup before serving and adjust salt and pepper according to your preference for optimal flavor.
• Blend carefully: When blending the soup, be cautious not to over-blend. A few chunks can add nice texture to your final dish.
• Experiment with spices: Feel free to add other spices like cumin or paprika for a unique twist on traditional flavors.
• Store properly: Let any leftovers cool completely before storing them in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Best Side Dishes for Carrot potato soup

Pairing side dishes with carrot potato soup can elevate your meal further. Here are some delightful options that complement this comforting dish perfectly.

1. Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a simple vinaigrette adds freshness alongside the rich soup.
2. Grilled Cheese Sandwich: A classic pairing; use plant-based cheese for a gooey melt that contrasts beautifully with the smoothness of the soup.
3. Vegetable Sticks: Raw veggies like carrots, cucumbers, and bell peppers serve as crunchy dippers that keep things healthy.
4. Garlic Bread: Toast some bread with garlic and herbs for an aromatic side that pairs well with any bowl of soup.
5. Stuffed Peppers: Mildly spiced stuffed peppers filled with rice or quinoa can provide a hearty addition to your meal.
6. Quinoa Salad: A chilled quinoa salad loaded with vegetables offers a nutritious side that brings additional textures and flavors to your table.
7. Savory Scones: Flavorful scones made with herbs or cheese can serve as a delightful accompaniment alongside your warm bowl of soup.
8. Roasted Veggies: Seasonal roasted vegetables seasoned simply with olive oil can enhance both nutrition and taste when served next to carrot potato soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making carrot potato soup, it’s easy to make small mistakes that can affect the final dish. Here are some common pitfalls and how to avoid them.

• Neglecting to season properly – Failing to season your soup as you go can lead to bland flavors. Always taste as you cook and adjust salt and spices accordingly.
• Using old vegetables – Old or wilted veggies can ruin the freshness of your soup. Always use fresh carrots and potatoes for the best flavor and texture.
• Overcooking the vegetables – Cooking the vegetables for too long can lead to mushiness. Keep an eye on cooking times, especially when simmering.
• Skipping the blending step – Not blending a portion of the soup may result in a less creamy texture. If you want a smooth consistency, don’t skip this step or consider using a hand blender.
• Ignoring storage tips – Improper storage can affect the soup’s quality. Make sure to cool your soup completely before refrigerating or freezing it.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store your carrot potato soup in an airtight container.
• It will last for about 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Carrot potato soup

• Freeze in individual portions using freezer-safe containers or bags.
• The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Carrot potato soup

• Oven – Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C), place soup in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave – Transfer soup to a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat for 2-3 minutes or until hot, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop – Heat in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making carrot potato soup.

Can I use other vegetables in carrot potato soup?

Yes! Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or peas for added nutrients and flavor.

How do I make my carrot potato soup creamier?

To enhance creaminess, blend a portion of the soup before mixing it back in. You can also add coconut milk or plant-based cream.

How long does carrot potato soup last in the freezer?

Carrot potato soup lasts up to 3 months when stored properly in freezer-safe containers.

Is this carrot potato soup recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This recipe is great for meal prep as it stores well and reheats easily throughout the week.

What broth should I use for carrot potato soup?

Use low-sodium vegetable broth for a lighter flavor or chicken broth if you prefer a richer taste without pork products.

Final Thoughts

This carrot potato soup is not only comforting but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it by adding different herbs or vegetables based on your preferences. It’s perfect for any season and makes a wonderful addition to your meal rotation. Don’t hesitate to give it a try!