Carrot Potato Soup

This creamy Carrot Potato Soup is a delightful blend of flavors that brings comfort and nourishment to your table. Perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends, this soup stands out with its rich taste and vibrant color. Not only is it easy to prepare, but it also satisfies with wholesome ingredients, making it an excellent choice for health-conscious eaters.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple steps and minimal ingredients, you can whip up this soup in no time.
• Flavorful Delight: The combination of carrots, potatoes, and spices creates a comforting and delicious flavor profile.
• Vegan-Friendly: Made without animal products, this soup is suitable for vegans and those following a plant-based diet.
• Nutritious & Filling: Packed with veggies, this soup offers a healthy dose of vitamins and minerals while keeping you full.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as a starter, main course, or even freeze leftovers for busy days ahead.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience seamless, having the right tools on hand is essential.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Dutch oven or large pot
• Blender or immersion blender
• Cutting board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Dutch oven or large pot: Ideal for simmering soups evenly and holding all the ingredients comfortably.
• Blender or immersion blender: Creates a smooth texture for the soup, blending the cashew cream perfectly into the mix.

Ingredients

This creamy vegan carrot potato soup is incredibly delicious and surprisingly simple to make. Enjoy this veggie packed soup for a healthy twist on a classic comfort food recipe.

Main Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• 3 large carrots, peeled and chopped
• 3 celery ribs, chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 2 medium russet potatoes (about 12oz) peeled and cut into 1/2 chunks
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 bay leaf
• 1/2 cup cashews, soaked for 4 hours (see note for quick-soak method)
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• Salt and pepper

How to Make Carrot Potato Soup

Step 1: Sauté Vegetables

In a large dutch oven or pot, add the olive oil, onion, carrots, and celery. Cook over medium heat for about 6 minutes while stirring occasionally until softened.

Step 2: Add Garlic and Potatoes

Add the minced garlic, dried thyme, and potato chunks to the pot. Continue cooking for another 2 minutes to enhance the flavors.

Step 3: Simmer

Pour in the vegetable broth and add the bay leaf. Bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 20 minutes or until all vegetables are tender. Don’t forget to remove the bay leaf afterward.

Step 4: Prepare Cashew Cream

While the soup simmers, blend together 1/2 cup of soaked cashews with 1/2 cup of water until completely smooth.

Step 5: Blend Soup Mixture

Once the vegetables are soft, scoop out one cup of the soup into your blender. Add lemon juice to this cup and blend until smooth.

Step 6: Combine & Season

Stir the blended cashew mixture back into the pot with the remaining soup. Season with salt and pepper according to your taste preference.

How to Serve Carrot Potato Soup

Carrot potato soup is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in numerous ways. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or a cozy night in, these serving suggestions will enhance your experience.

With Fresh Herbs

• Garnish with parsley or cilantro – A sprinkle of freshly chopped herbs adds brightness and flavor.
• Add chives – Finely chopped chives give a mild onion flavor and a pop of color.

With Crusty Bread

• Serve with baguette slices – Crunchy baguette pairs wonderfully, perfect for dipping.
• Try garlic bread – The rich taste of garlic bread complements the creamy soup.

Topped with Nuts

• Sprinkle toasted pumpkin seeds – These add a delightful crunch and nutty taste.
• Use roasted almonds – Chopped almonds provide both texture and healthy fats.

With a Drizzle of Oil

• Drizzle olive oil on top – A light drizzle enhances the soup’s richness.
• Try chili oil for spice – For those who like heat, chili oil adds an exciting kick.

How to Perfect Carrot Potato Soup

Creating the perfect carrot potato soup is all about technique and ingredients. Here are some tips to elevate your soup-making game.

• Use fresh vegetables – Fresh produce enhances flavor and nutrition in your soup.
• Soak cashews longer – Soaking cashews overnight yields a creamier texture when blended.
• Adjust seasoning wisely – Taste as you go; adding salt and pepper gradually helps achieve the right balance.
• Blend thoroughly – Ensure the soup is completely smooth for the best mouthfeel.
• Experiment with spices – Add spices like cumin or smoked paprika for added depth of flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Carrot Potato Soup

Pairing side dishes with carrot potato soup can make your meal even more satisfying. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Garlic Bread – This classic side adds flavor and is perfect for dipping.
2. Mixed Green Salad – A fresh salad provides a light contrast to the creamy soup.
3. Cheese Toasties – Melty cheese sandwiches complement the soup beautifully.
4. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal roasted veggies add texture and nutrition.
5. Quinoa Salad – A protein-packed quinoa salad makes this meal heartier.
6. Pita Chips with Hummus – Crunchy pita chips paired with hummus offer a delightful snack alongside your soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making carrot potato soup is simple, but a few common mistakes can impact the final dish. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for.

• Skipping the soaking step: Not soaking cashews can lead to a grainy texture in your soup. Make sure to soak them for at least 4 hours for creaminess.
• Overcooking vegetables: Cooking the vegetables too long can make them mushy. Keep an eye on them and cook just until tender for the best flavor and texture.
• Ignoring seasoning: Underseasoning can leave your soup bland. Taste and adjust with salt and pepper as needed throughout the cooking process.
• Not blending enough: If you don’t blend the soup thoroughly, it won’t achieve that creamy consistency. Blend until completely smooth for a delightful mouthfeel.
• Using low-quality broth: A poor-quality vegetable broth can affect the soup’s overall flavor. Choose a high-quality broth or homemade version for better taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in airtight containers.
• Can be kept for 3-5 days in the fridge.

Freezing Carrot Potato Soup

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags to prevent freezer burn.
• Will last for up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Carrot Potato Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered dish for about 20-25 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts of 1-2 minutes, stirring in between until heated through.
• Stovetop: Pour into a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making carrot potato soup.

What can I add to carrot potato soup?

You can add various veggies like spinach, peas, or corn for extra nutrition. Herbs such as parsley or dill also enhance flavor.

How do I make this carrot potato soup spicy?

To spice things up, consider adding red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños during cooking. This will give your soup a nice kick!

Can I use other types of potatoes?

Yes! While russet potatoes work well, you can use Yukon gold or sweet potatoes for different flavors and textures.

Is this carrot potato soup gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free since all ingredients used are gluten-free.

Final Thoughts

This creamy vegan carrot potato soup is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or spices. Enjoy this comforting dish any time of year!