This warm and cozy carrot ginger soup is a delightful mix of sweet carrots and zingy ginger. It’s creamy, colorful, and perfect for chilly days!
Cooking it is a breeze: just toss everything into the pot, blend it up, and enjoy! I love serving it with a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top—so tasty!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Carrots: Fresh, vibrant carrots are a must for the best flavor. If you’re in a pinch, you can use frozen carrots, but fresh really shines here!
Ginger: Fresh ginger adds a bright kick. If you don’t have it, ground ginger can work too, about 1 teaspoon instead of 2 tablespoons.
Coconut Milk: It gives the soup creaminess. If you’re avoiding coconut, try heavy cream or even almond milk for a different taste.
Broth: Vegetable broth keeps it veggie-friendly, but chicken broth is great too! You can also make it with water in a pinch.
Spices: Ground cumin adds warmth, but feel free to skip it if you prefer a simpler flavor. Other spices like turmeric or curry powder could also fit nicely if you want an extra twist!
How Do You Make a Creamy, Smooth Soup?
To achieve a silky texture, blending is key. You have two options. If you have an immersion blender, just blend the soup right in the pot! If using a regular blender, let the soup cool a bit first.
- Fill your blender halfway with soup—leave space to avoid spills.
- Cover the lid with a towel (to prevent splashes) and blend until smooth.
After blending, return the soup to the pot and stir in coconut milk for that creamy finish. This method is what makes your soup so enjoyable!
How to Make Carrot Ginger Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh ginger, peeled and grated
- 1.5 pounds (about 6 large) carrots, peeled and chopped
- 4 cups vegetable broth or chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin (optional, for warmth)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup coconut milk or cream (plus extra for garnish)
- Fresh cilantro or parsley, for garnish
- Red chili flakes or toasted cumin seeds for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and about 30 minutes of cooking time. In total, you can expect it to take around 40 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick and delicious way to enjoy homemade soup!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Base:
Start by heating the olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for about 4-5 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent. This will give your soup a flavorful base!
2. Add Garlic and Ginger:
Next, stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger. Cook this mixture for another 1-2 minutes until you can smell their wonderful fragrance. This is where the magic happens!
3. Cook the Carrots:
Now, add the chopped carrots to the pot. Cook them for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. This helps to soften them up and enhances their sweetness.
4. Simmer with Broth:
Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth, and if you want a little extra warmth, add the ground cumin as well. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer until the carrots are tender, which takes about 20-25 minutes.
5. Blend for Smoothness:
Once the carrots are tender, remove the pot from heat. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until it’s completely smooth. If you don’t have an immersion blender, carefully transfer the soup in batches to a regular blender, blend until smooth, and return it to the pot.
6. Add Creaminess:
Stir in the coconut milk or cream to give your soup that rich, velvety texture. Taste again and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
7. Serve and Garnish:
Serve the soup hot, drizzled with a bit of extra coconut milk or cream. Sprinkle with fresh cilantro or parsley, and if you like, add a touch of red chili flakes or toasted cumin seeds for a bit of spice and texture.
Enjoy the comforting, velvety carrot and ginger flavors in this vibrant soup! Perfect for cozy days or whenever you need a warm hug in a bowl.
Can I Use Different Types of Broth?
Absolutely! You can use vegetable broth for a vegetarian option or chicken broth for extra depth. If you’re in a pinch, water can work too, but it might need a bit more seasoning.
How Can I Make This Soup Spicier?
If you like it spicy, add red chili flakes or a touch of cayenne pepper while cooking. You can also top the soup with sliced jalapeños or hotter pepper options when serving!
Can I Freeze Leftover Soup?
Yes, this soup freezes well! Allow it to cool completely, then store it in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating on the stove.
What Can I Serve with This Soup?
This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a fresh salad. You can also serve it with a dollop of yogurt or sour cream for added creaminess!