Carrot and Coriander Soup is a refreshing and flavorful delight, perfect for any meal. It’s aromatic, sweet, and a wonderful way to enjoy the wholesome goodness of fresh vegetables.
Today, I’m excited to share with you a simple yet flavorful recipe: Jamie Oliver’s Carrot and Coriander Soup! This guide will swiftly walk you through blending the sweetness of carrots with aromatic coriander, ensuring you a comforting and delicious bowl every time!
So, let’s get started!
What is Jamie Oliver’s carrot and coriander soup?
Carrot and coriander soup is a classic British soup that combines the sweetness of carrots with the freshness of coriander (also known as cilantro). It’s a simple and easy soup to make, but it has a lot of flavor and nutrition.
Carrots are rich in beta-carotene, which is good for your eyesight and skin. They also contain fiber, vitamin C, potassium, and antioxidants. Coriander is a herb that has a citrusy and earthy taste. It’s also a good source of vitamin K, iron, magnesium, and anti-inflammatory compounds.
Together, these two ingredients create a soup that’s warm, comforting, and satisfying. It’s a great soup to enjoy on a cold day, or as a light meal or appetizer. You can also customize it with other spices, herbs, or toppings to suit your preferences.
Why You Should Try This Recipe
You should try this recipe for Jamie Oliver’s carrot and coriander soup because it’s:
- Delicious: The soup has a sweet and savory flavor that’s balanced by the freshness of the coriander. It’s a satisfying and comforting dish that will make you feel good.
- Healthy: The soup is low in calories, fat, and sodium, but high in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. It’s a great way to boost your immune system and your eye health.
- Easy: The soup is very easy to make, with only a few ingredients and steps. You don’t need any fancy equipment or skills to make it. It’s also a great way to use up any leftover carrots or coriander you have in your fridge.
- Versatile: The soup can be customized to your liking, with different spices, herbs, or toppings. You can also make it vegan, gluten-free, or dairy-free if you prefer. You can serve it as a main course, a side dish, or an appetizer, depending on the occasion.
Ingredients Needed to Make Jamie Oliver Carrot and Coriander Soup
To make carrot and coriander soup, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 teaspoon of ground coriander
- 1 potato, chopped
- 450 grams of carrots, peeled and chopped
- 1.2 liters of vegetable or chicken stock
- A handful of fresh coriander, chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Equipment
You’ll also need the following equipment:
- A large pot or saucepan
- A knife and a cutting board
- A measuring cup and a measuring spoon
- A blender or a food processor
- A ladle and a soup bowl
How to make Jamie Oliver Carrot and Coriander Soup
Here are the steps to make carrot and coriander soup:
Step 1: Heat the oil and fry the onion
Heat the oil in a large pot or saucepan over medium-high heat. Add the onion and fry for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until soft and translucent.
Step 2: Add the ground coriander and the potato
Stir in the ground coriander and season with salt and pepper. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, to release the aroma of the spice. Add the potato and cook for another minute, stirring to coat it with the oil and the spice.
Step 3: Add the carrots and the stock
Add the carrots and the stock and bring the mixture to a boil. Then, reduce the heat and simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the carrots and the potato are tender.
Step 4: Blend the soup and add the fresh coriander
Transfer the soup to a blender or a food processor and blend until smooth. You may need to do this in batches, depending on the size of your blender or food processor. Alternatively, you can use an immersion blender to blend the soup directly into the pot.
Return the soup to the pot and reheat it if needed. Stir in the fresh coriander and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
Step 5: Serve the soup and enjoy!
Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot. You can garnish it with more fresh coriander, sour cream, croutons, or cheese if you like. Enjoy your carrot and coriander soup with some bread or crackers or on its own.
What To Serve With Jamie Oliver Carrot and Coriander Soup
You can serve this soup with some bread, crackers, or salad for a complete meal. You can also serve it as an appetizer or a side dish for a main course, such as roast chicken, grilled fish, or pasta.
Some examples of what to serve with Jamie Oliver carrot and coriander soup are:
- Bread Options: Enhance your soup experience with a crusty baguette or soft naan bread. These breads are perfect for dipping into the soup and soaking up its flavorful essence.
- Cheese and Charcuterie: Complement the soup with a cheese board or a charcuterie platter. This adds a variety of tastes and textures that contrast well with the soup’s smoothness.
- Fresh Salads: Serve alongside a crisp green salad or a tangy coleslaw. These salads introduce a crunchy and fresh element to the meal.
- Vegetable and Grain Salads: Consider a roasted vegetable or a quinoa salad for added color and texture. These sides are both hearty and healthful.
- Sweet Finish: Conclude with a fruit salad or a yogurt parfait for a refreshing and sweet end to the meal.
Tips and tricks to make the best carrot and coriander soup
Here are some tips and tricks to make the best carrot and coriander soup:
- Choice of Ingredients: Opt for fresh and organic carrots and coriander for superior flavor. Baby carrots are a sweeter and more tender alternative.
- Stock Selection: Utilize high-quality vegetable or chicken stock as the soup’s base. Homemade stock, or a mix of water and stock cube/powder, are also good choices.
Adding Depth and Spice:
- Spice It Up: Incorporate garlic, ginger, cumin, curry powder, or chili flakes for an extra kick. Lemon juice or zest can add a refreshing acidity and brightness.
- Blending Options: If a blender isn’t available, a potato masher or fork can be used to mash the soup, resulting in a chunkier texture but equally delightful taste.
Customizing the Soup:
- Herb Variations: If coriander isn’t to your taste, try parsley, basil, mint, or dill. Dried coriander is an alternative, or it can be omitted entirely.
- Creaminess Factor: For a creamier texture, add cream, milk, yogurt, or coconut milk. Cheese varieties like cheddar, parmesan, or feta can also enhance richness and flavor.
- Making it Hearty: To make the soup more filling, add cooked chicken, ham, bacon, tofu, beans, lentils, rice, or pasta. These ingredients boost the protein and carbohydrate content.
How To Store and Freeze Jamie Oliver Carrot and Coriander Soup
Storing in the Refrigerator:
- Keep any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It remains good for up to 3 days. When reheating, you may need to add water or stock to adjust the consistency.
Freezing and Thawing:
- For longer storage, freeze the soup for up to 3 months. Use freezer bags or containers, labeled with the date and name of the soup. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
How to Reheat Carrot and Coriander Soup
Reheating carrot and coriander soup is simple and can be done in a few easy steps:
You can reheat the soup on the stovetop or in the microwave.
- Stovetop: Pour the soup into a pot and warm it over low to medium heat. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating.
- Microwave: Transfer the soup to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat it in short intervals, stirring in between, until thoroughly warmed.
If the soup has thickened while in the fridge, add a little water or stock to thin it to your desired consistency.
- Check Temperature: Ensure the soup is heated all the way through. It should be steaming hot but not boiling.
- Serve and Enjoy: Once heated, pour the soup into a bowl and serve. You can garnish with fresh coriander or a dollop of cream if desired.
Health Benefits of Carrot and Coriander Soup
- Rich in Vitamins and Minerals: Carrots are a great source of vitamin A, vital for eye health, and coriander is rich in vitamin K, important for blood clotting and bone health.
- Antioxidant Properties: Both carrots and coriander contain antioxidants that help protect the body from oxidative stress and may reduce the risk of certain diseases.
- Low in Calories: This soup is generally low in calories, making it a good choice for those managing their weight.
- Dietary Fiber: Carrots add dietary fiber to the soup, which aids in digestion and helps maintain a healthy gut.
- Heart Health: Ingredients in the soup, such as garlic and onions, are known for their heart-healthy benefits.
- Anti-Inflammatory Effects: Coriander has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce inflammation in the body.
- Boosts Immune System: The vitamins and minerals in the soup contribute to a stronger immune system.
- Skin Health: The beta-carotene in carrots is beneficial for skin health and may improve skin appearance.
- Versatile for Many Diets: The soup can easily be adapted to fit various dietary needs, including vegan and gluten-free diets.
- Hydrating and Comforting: As a liquid-based dish, it helps in maintaining hydration and provides a comforting, nourishing meal.
FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions about carrot and coriander soup:
How much fiber is in carrot and coriander soup?
The fiber content in carrot and coriander soup depends on the specific recipe and portion size. Typically, a serving of this soup, which includes carrots as a primary ingredient, offers a good source of dietary fiber. Carrots are naturally high in fiber, so a standard bowl of carrot and coriander soup might contain approximately 3 to 5 grams of fiber.
Is carrot soup good for health?
Yes, carrot soup is good for health. It is rich in essential nutrients like beta-carotene, vitamin C, and potassium. Carrots are also a good source of antioxidants and dietary fiber. These nutrients contribute to eye health, immune system support, and digestive health. The soup is typically low in calories and can be part of a healthy diet.
What is the most healthiest soup in the world?
Identifying the “most healthy” soup globally is subjective as it depends on individual dietary needs and preferences. However, soups that are high in vegetables, lean proteins, and low in sodium, like vegetable, chicken, or lentil soups, are often considered among the healthiest. These soups provide essential nutrients, are generally low in calories, and can be part of a balanced diet.
Are carrots and coriander good for you?
Yes, carrots and coriander are good for you. Carrots are nutritious vegetables rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, particularly beta-carotene, which is beneficial for eye health. Coriander (cilantro) offers its own set of health benefits, including vitamins such as vitamin K, and it has been known for its anti-inflammatory properties. Together, they make a healthy and flavorful combination.
Should you cook carrots before putting them in soup?
In most soup recipes, including carrot and coriander soup, it is advisable to cook carrots before adding them to the soup. Cooking carrots helps to soften them, making them easier to blend (if the recipe calls for a blended soup), and enhances their natural sweetness. Typically, carrots are sautéed or simmered along with other ingredients like onions before liquid is added.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe makes about 4 servings, depending on the size of your bowls and your appetite. You can easily double or halve the recipe to make more or less servings.
How long does it take to make this soup?
It takes about 30 minutes to make this soup, from start to finish. Most of the time is spent on chopping the vegetables and simmering the soup. The blending and garnishing are quick and easy.
Can I make this soup vegan or gluten-free?
Yes, you can make this soup vegan or gluten-free. To make it vegan, use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock, and omit any dairy or animal products. To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free stock and avoid any gluten-containing ingredients, such as bread, crackers, or croutons.
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, you can make this soup ahead of time. You can either make the soup completely and reheat it when ready to serve, or make the soup base and blend it with the fresh coriander just before serving. Either way, make sure to store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator or freezer and reheat it over low heat, stirring occasionally.
What can I serve with this soup?
You can serve this soup with some bread, crackers, or salad for a complete meal. You can also serve it as an appetizer or a side dish for a main course, such as roast chicken, grilled fish, or pasta.
Final Words
Carrot and coriander soup is a delicious and healthy soup that’s easy to make and versatile to customize. It’s a great way to use up some carrots and coriander and to enjoy a warm and comforting meal.
I hope you enjoyed this recipe and learned how to make Jamie Oliver’s carrot and coriander soup. If you have any questions, comments, or feedback, please let me know in the comments section below. I’d love to hear from you!
