Nigella Chestnut Soup Recipe

Nigella Chestnut Soup Recipe
Yields: 1 Serving Difficulty: Easy Prep Time: 15 Mins Cook Time: 1 Hr 10 Mins Total Time: 1 Hr 25 Mins

Nigella Lawson Chestnut Soup is a rich, velvety dish that showcases the unique, nutty flavor of chestnuts. This luxurious soup is a blend of earthy chestnuts, aromatic spices, and creamy textures, creating a comforting and indulgent experience with each spoonful. It’s an ideal choice for those seeking a gourmet twist on classic winter flavors.

In this article, I’ll guide you through Nigella Lawson’s Chestnut Soup recipe, providing tips for achieving the perfect balance of flavors and a creamy consistency

What is Nigella Chestnut Soup Recipe?

Nigella chestnut soup is a delicious and warming soup that is made with roasted chestnuts, onion, garlic, chicken or vegetable stock, cream, and Nigella seeds. Nigella seeds are small black seeds that have a nutty and peppery flavor. They are also known as black cumin, black onion seeds, or kalonji. Nigella chestnut soup is a great way to use up leftover chestnuts from the holidays, or you can use canned chestnuts for convenience. It is a hearty and satisfying soup that can be enjoyed as a starter or a main course.

Perfect for serving 4-6 people, this soup takes a reasonable amount of time to prepare, making it a great option for a special dinner or a cozy night in.

Nigella Chestnut Soup
Nigella Chestnut Soup

Other Popular Recipes

Why You Love this Recipe

Nigella’s Chestnut Soup is a delightful blend of flavors and textures that makes it a must-try recipe.

Here’s why it will be a favorite in your kitchen:

  • Simplicity in Preparation: This soup is a breeze to make with easily accessible ingredients, perfect for a quick yet impressive meal.
  • Comfort in a Bowl: The creamy texture and comforting warmth make it an ideal choice for chilly days.
  • Unique Flavor Profile: The nutty and peppery notes of Nigella seeds, combined with the natural sweetness of chestnuts, create a distinct and enjoyable flavor.
  • Adaptable to Your Taste: Whether you prefer a vegetarian option or wish to experiment with spices, this soup can be easily customized.
  • Nutrient-Rich: Enjoy the health benefits of chestnuts and Nigella seeds, packed with fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants.

Ingredients Needed to Make Nigella Chestnut Soup

To make this Nigella Chestnut Soup, you’ll need the following ingredients:

  • 500 g (1 lb) chestnuts, fresh or canned
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 4 cups chicken stock or vegetable stock
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1/4 tsp nutmeg
  • 1/4 cup heavy cream
  • 2 tsp Nigella seeds
  • Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)

Instructions to Make Nigella Chestnut Soup

Follow, this simple step to make this soup

Step 1: Roast and Peel the Chestnuts (If Using Fresh)

  • Preheat the oven to 200°C (180°C fan) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  • Cut a small X on the flat side of each chestnut with a sharp knife. This will help them to peel easily after roasting.
  • Place the chestnuts on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the shells are cracked and the flesh is soft.
  • Let them cool slightly, then peel and chop them.

Step 2: Cook the Onion and Garlic

  • In a large pot over medium-high heat, melt the butter and cook the onion and garlic for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until soft and golden.

Step 3: Add the Chestnuts and Stock

  • Add the chestnuts, stock, salt, pepper, and nutmeg, and bring to a boil.
  • Reduce the heat and simmer for 10 minutes, or until the chestnuts are very tender.

Step 4: Puree the Soup

  • Using an immersion blender or a food processor, puree the soup until smooth and creamy.
  • You can adjust the consistency by adding more stock or water if needed.

Step 5: Stir in the Cream and Nigella Seeds

  • Stir in the cream and Nigella seeds and heat through.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

  • Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
  • Enjoy your Nigella chestnut soup with some bread or croutons.

Easy Nigella Chestnut Soup Recipe

What Do I Serve With Nigella Chestnut Soup?

Enhance your soup experience with these complementary sides:

  1. Bread Options: Dip into the soup with a slice of crusty bread, such as sourdough, or enjoy the added crunch of homemade croutons.
  2. Fresh Salads: Pair with a light green salad or a colorful coleslaw for a refreshing contrast to the rich soup.
  3. Cheese Accompaniment: Add a touch of decadence with a sprinkle of grated cheese like parmesan or gruyere on top of the soup, or serve alongside a cheese toast.
  4. Protein Add-Ons: For a heartier meal, accompany your soup with toasted nuts or seeds, adding both protein and texture.

Pro Tips to Make Perfect Nigella Chestnut Soup

Here are some expert tips to elevate your soup:

  • Roasting Chestnuts: If using fresh chestnuts, roasting enhances their flavor. Ensure they are soft and easily peeled for the best texture in your soup.
  • Sauteing Onions and Garlic: Cook these until they’re soft and golden for a foundational flavor base.
  • Consistency Is Key: Use an immersion blender for a smooth, creamy soup. Adjust with additional stock or water to achieve your desired thickness.
  • Seasoning and Spices: Balance the flavors with salt, pepper, and a hint of nutmeg. The addition of Nigella seeds introduces a unique, peppery taste.
  • Garnishing: Enhance the presentation and flavor with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of additional Nigella seeds before serving.

Variations of Nigella Chestnut Soup

  • Vegan Twist: Swap chicken stock with vegetable stock and cream with coconut cream for a vegan-friendly version.
  • Mushroom Addition: Introduce sauteed or roasted mushrooms for an earthy flavor depth.
  • Bacon Flavor: Incorporate cooked, crumbled bacon for a smoky dimension, using its fat for sauteing onions and garlic.

How do I store Nigella Chestnut Soup Leftovers?

  • Refrigerate: You can store the leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to let the soup cool completely before refrigerating.
  • Freeze: You can freeze the leftover soup in a freezer-safe container or a ziplock bag for up to 3 months. Make sure to leave some space for expansion when freezing. Label and date the container or bag for easy identification.
  • Thaw: You can thaw the frozen soup in the refrigerator overnight, or in the microwave on low power, stirring occasionally.

How do I reheat Nigella Chestnut Soup Leftovers?

  • Stove: You can reheat the soup in a pot over medium-low heat, stirring frequently, until hot and bubbly. You may need to add some water or stock to thin the soup if it is too thick.
  • Microwave: You can reheat the soup in a microwave-safe bowl, covered with a lid or a paper towel, on high power, stirring every 2 minutes, until hot and steaming. You may need to add some water or stock to thin the soup if it is too thick.

Nutrition value per serving (based on 6 servings):

  • Calories: 323 kcal
  • Fat: 14 g
  • Carbohydrates: 44 g
  • Fiber: 7 g
  • Protein: 9 g
  • Sodium: 602 mg
  • Potassium: 790 mg
  • Vitamin A: 2310 IU
  • Vitamin C: 31 mg
  • Calcium: 54 mg
  • Iron: 3 mg

FAQs

What are Nigella seeds and where can I find them?

Nigella seeds, also known as black cumin, black onion seeds, or kalonji, are small black seeds with a nutty and slightly peppery flavor. They are commonly used in Middle Eastern and Indian cuisines. You can find them in specialty spice stores, Middle Eastern or Indian grocery stores, or online spice retailers.

Can I use fresh or canned chestnuts for this soup?

Yes, you can use either fresh or canned chestnuts for this soup. If you use fresh chestnuts, you need to roast them in the oven and peel them before adding them to the soup. If you use canned chestnuts, you can just chop them and add them to the soup.

How can I make this soup vegan or dairy-free?

You can make this soup vegan or dairy-free by using vegetable stock instead of chicken stock, and coconut cream instead of heavy cream. You can also use vegan butter or olive oil to cook the onion and garlic.

What can I do if the soup is too thick or too thin?

You can adjust the consistency of the soup by adding more stock or water if it is too thick, or by simmering it longer if it is too thin. You can also puree the soup more or less depending on your preference.

Final Words

In summary, Nigella’s Chestnut Soup is a delightful and comforting dish that combines the unique flavors of roasted chestnuts and aromatic Nigella seeds. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also adaptable to both fresh and canned chestnuts, making it a versatile choice for any cook. The option to modify it for vegan diets adds to its appeal. Rich in nutrients and packed with flavors ranging from nutty to peppery, it’s a perfect choice for a cozy meal. Whether served as a starter or a main course, Nigella’s Chestnut Soup is sure to bring warmth and satisfaction to your table.

Related Recipes to Try

Leave a Reply