Carrot Soup with Cumin: A Deliciously Wholesome Recipe
Welcome to the world of Carrot Soup with Cumin, a tasty and healthy dish that warms the heart and nourishes the body! This delightful soup has roots in various cuisines around the globe, particularly in Indian and Middle Eastern cooking. Carrots, the star ingredient, are known for their vibrant color and sweet flavor. Adding cumin not only enhances the soup’s taste but also brings a hint of warmth that perfectly complements the carrots.
One reason this soup is so popular is because it’s super easy to make and can be enjoyed by everyone! Whether you’re looking for a healthy meal or a comforting dish on a chilly day, Carrot Soup with Cumin checks all the boxes. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies!
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
| Carrots, chopped | 4 cups |
| Onion, chopped | 1 medium |
| Garlic, minced | 2 cloves |
| Cumin seeds | 1 teaspoon |
| Vegetable broth | 4 cups |
| Coconut milk (optional) | 1 cup |
| Olive oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Salt | to taste |
| Pepper | to taste |
Alternative Suggestions: You can substitute coconut milk with heavy cream for a richer taste. If you’re in a hurry, using pre-chopped carrots can save you time!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare Your Ingredients: Wash and chop the carrots, onion, and garlic. Measure out the other ingredients as listed.
- Heat the Oil: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Sauté the Veggies: Add the chopped onion and garlic to the pot. Cook for about 5 minutes until they’re soft and fragrant.
- Add the Carrots: Stir in the chopped carrots and sauté for another 5 minutes.
- Add Cumin and Broth: Sprinkle the cumin seeds over the vegetables, then pour in the vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Simmer: Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes or until the carrots are tender.
- Blend the Soup: Use an immersion blender directly in the pot or transfer the soup to a blender carefully. Blend until smooth.
- Add Coconut Milk: If using, stir in the coconut milk and heat for an additional 5 minutes.
- Season and Serve: Taste the soup and add salt and pepper to your preference. Ladle into bowls and enjoy!
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount | Daily Value (%) |
| Calories | 150 | 7% |
| Protein | 3g | 5% |
| Carbohydrates | 20g | 7% |
| Fats | 7g | 11% |
| Vitamin A | 200% DV | – |
Tips and Tricks
- Customize Your Soup: Add spices like ginger or chili powder for a kick!
- Garnish: Top with fresh cilantro or a swirl of cream for extra flavor.
- Storage: Leftover soup can be stored in the fridge for up to 5 days or frozen for later use.
- Avoid Overcooking: Make sure not to cook the carrots too long, or they might lose their vibrant color and sweet flavor!
FAQs
Can I use baby carrots for this soup?
Yes, you can use baby carrots! Just roughly chop them before cooking to ensure they cook evenly.
Is cumin necessary for this recipe?
While cumin adds a unique flavor, you can omit it if you prefer a milder taste.
Can I make this soup vegan?
Absolutely! This recipe is already vegan-friendly as long as you use vegetable broth and skip the coconut milk if you prefer.
What if I don’t have an immersion blender?
No problem! You can blend the soup in batches using a regular blender. Just be careful with the hot soup!
How can I make it spicier?
Add red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño while sautéing the onions and garlic for an extra kick.
Can I add other vegetables?
Yes! Feel free to add other veggies like sweet potatoes or bell peppers for a different flavor and texture.
How should I serve carrot soup?
Carrot soup is delicious served hot, garnished with fresh herbs or a dollop of yogurt. It pairs well with crusty bread!
How long does this soup last in the fridge?
Once cooled, you can store the soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Can I freeze carrot soup?
Yes! Carrot soup freezes well. Just let it cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers.
Is this soup healthy?
Yes! This soup is rich in vitamins, low in calories, and a great way to get your daily serving of vegetables.
What can I use instead of coconut milk?
You can use almond milk, regular milk, or even more vegetable broth if you want to keep it lighter.
Conclusion
Now that you have the recipe for Carrot Soup with Cumin, it’s time to gather your ingredients and get cooking! This dish is not only delicious but also a great way to enjoy healthy vegetables. Happy cooking!
