When the weather turns chilly, there’s nothing quite like a bowl of comforting soup to warm the soul. Inspired by Mary Berry’s famous recipe, this carrot and parsnip soup brings together the natural sweetness and earthy flavors of its main ingredients in a smooth and creamy texture. This soup is perfect for a cozy dinner or as a soothing lunch, offering a satisfying blend of flavors that are both nourishing and delightful.
How To Make Mary Berry’s Carrot and Parsnip Soup Recipe Overview
This version of Carrot and Parsnip Soup Mary Berry serves up generous portions, perfect for about 6-8 people. With a total cooking time of approximately 45 minutes, it’s an ideal choice for a weekend meal prep or a weeknight dinner. The soup’s creamy consistency is achieved without the use of cream, making it a healthier option that still feels indulgent. A hint of nutmeg adds a subtle warmth, enhancing the sweetness of the carrots and parsnips, while a dollop of fresh cream and a sprinkle of chopped parsley can be added just before serving for an extra touch of luxury and freshness.
Ingredients
- 750 g parsnips, peeled and chopped
- 750 g carrots, peeled and chopped
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1.5 liters of vegetable or chicken stock
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
- A pinch of nutmeg (optional)
- Fresh cream for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Vegetables: In a big pot, warm the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until the onion becomes translucent and soft, about 5-7 minutes.
- Cook the Roots: Add the chopped carrots and parsnips to the pot, stirring to coat them with the oil. Cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the edges begin to soften.
- Add the Stock: Pour in the vegetable or chicken stock and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg if using.
- Simmer: Cover the pot and let the soup simmer gently for about 25-30 minutes, or until the carrots and parsnips are very soft.
- Blend the Soup: Remove the pot from the heat. Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth and creamy. Adjust the seasoning as needed.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls. If desired, swirl in a spoonful of fresh cream and garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Nutritional Value
This carrot and parsnip soup is a low-calorie option that provides a good source of dietary fiber, vitamin A, and vitamin C. Each serving contains approximately:
Calories: 180-200 kcal
Protein: 3 g
Fat: 7 g (1 g saturated)
Carbohydrates: 29 g
Dietary Fiber: 6 g
Sugars: 9 g
Also Read: Perfectly Delightful Blueberry Muffins: A Mary Berry Inspired Recipe
How To Store and Reheat this soup?
Storing the Soup
Cooling: Allow the soup to cool to room temperature before storing. This prevents condensation from forming inside the container, which could make the soup watery.
Refrigeration: Transfer the cooled soup into airtight containers. It’s best to use glass containers if available, as they don’t absorb flavors and are easy to reheat. The soup will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Freezing: For longer storage, the soup can be frozen. Pour the soup into freezer-safe bags or containers. Leave about an inch of space at the top as the soup will expand when frozen. Label the containers with the date and contents. Frozen soup is best used within 3 months.
Reheating the Soup
Refrigerated Soup:
Microwave: Pour the soup into a microwave-safe bowl and cover it loosely with a lid or microwave-safe plastic wrap. Heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.
Stovetop: Reheat the soup in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally. If the soup seems too thick, you can add a little water or stock to adjust the consistency.
Frozen Soup:
Thawing: It’s best to thaw the soup overnight in the refrigerator if you have time. If you’re in a hurry, you can thaw it in the microwave using the defrost setting or by placing the frozen container in a bowl of cold water, changing the water every 30 minutes.
Reheating: Once thawed, reheat the soup on the stovetop over medium heat until hot, which should take about 5-8 minutes. If you didn’t thaw the soup, you can directly heat it on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently and adding a bit of water or stock if needed. This method might take a bit longer.
FAQs
Can I add other vegetables to this soup?
Absolutely! This soup is quite versatile. Consider adding sweet potatoes for extra creaminess or a bit of celery for a fresh, slightly tangy note. These additions can be cooked along with the carrots and parsnips.
What are the best toppings for carrot and parsnip soup?
Besides the suggested fresh cream and parsley, you might enjoy a sprinkle of roasted pumpkin seeds for crunch, a swirl of pesto for a burst of flavor, or a dollop of Greek yogurt for tanginess. Each topping adds a unique twist to the soup’s flavor profile.
How can I make this soup more protein-rich?
To increase the protein content, consider adding lentils or chickpeas to the soup. These should be added when you pour in the stock so they have sufficient time to cook. You could also serve the soup with a side of quinoa or sprinkle some grated cheese on top before serving.
Is this soup suitable for babies or toddlers?
Yes, this soup is great for young children as it’s smooth and easy to digest. Just be mindful of the seasoning—keep it mild without added salt or pepper for babies. You might also want to skip the nutmeg and fresh cream for very young children.
How can I make this soup if I don’t have an immersion or stand blender?
If you don’t have a blender, you can still enjoy this soup by mashing the vegetables with a potato masher. The texture will be less smooth but still hearty and enjoyable. Alternatively, if you have a food processor, you can puree the soup in batches, being careful to manage the hot liquid.
Conclusion
In conclusion, this carrot and parsnip soup recipe, inspired by Mary Berry’s approach to classic, comforting flavors, offers a delightful blend of sweetness and depth. It’s not only easy to prepare but also adaptable to various dietary preferences, ensuring it can be enjoyed by everyone at your table. Whether you’re looking for a warming meal on a cold day or a nutritious dish that satisfies without too much fuss, this soup is sure to impress. Don’t forget to experiment with different toppings or mix-ins to make this dish uniquely yours. Enjoy the process of creating this soul-soothing soup and the delicious results!