As the weather starts to cool down, nothing sounds better than a warm and comforting bowl of soup. And what better way to get your daily dose of vitamins than with a delicious and nutritious orange and carrot soup?
This recipe is not only easy to make, but it’s also packed with flavor and nutrients. Carrots are an excellent source of beta-carotene, which is converted into vitamin A in the body. Vitamin A is important for maintaining healthy vision, skin, and immune function. Oranges are also a great source of vitamin C, which is essential for immune function and skin health.
So, without further ado, let’s dive into the recipe!
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 6 large carrots, peeled and chopped
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup orange juice
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional toppings: chopped fresh herbs, croutons, or a drizzle of coconut cream
Instructions:
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the onion and garlic and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add the ginger, cumin, cinnamon, and cayenne pepper and cook for another minute, stirring constantly.
- Add the chopped carrots and vegetable broth and bring to a boil.
- Reduce the heat and let the soup simmer until the carrots are tender, about 20-25 minutes.
- Remove the soup from the heat and let it cool slightly.
- Using an immersion blender or regular blender, blend the soup until smooth.
- Stir in the orange juice and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Reheat the soup if necessary and serve with your choice of toppings.
And there you have it – a delicious and nutritious orange and carrot soup that’s perfect for a cozy night in. If you’re looking to add some protein to the meal, consider adding a side of grilled chicken or tofu.
For those who are short on time, this recipe can easily be made in a slow cooker. Simply sauté the onion and garlic in a pan, then add all the ingredients to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
And if you’re looking for some kitchen tools to make this recipe even easier, consider investing in an immersion blender like the Cuisinart Smart Stick 2-Speed Immersion Hand Blender. This handy tool allows you to blend the soup right in the pot, without having to transfer it to a blender.
So next time you’re in the mood for a comforting and nutritious meal, give this orange and carrot soup recipe a try. Your taste buds – and your body – will thank you!
