As the weather starts to cool down, there’s nothing quite like a warm and comforting bowl of soup to lift your spirits. And what better ingredient to start with than carrots? Sweet, earthy, and packed with vitamins, carrots are the perfect foundation for a deliciously creamy soup. In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through 20 different creamy carrot soup recipes that will make your taste buds sing.
From classic combinations like Spiced Carrot and Ginger Soup to more adventurous pairings like Curried Carrot and Coconut Soup, we’ve got you covered with a range of flavors and textures to suit every palate. Whether you’re looking for a comforting and familiar flavor or something new and exciting, these recipes are sure to hit the spot.
In this first installment, we’ll be exploring some of our favorite creamy carrot soup recipes that showcase the versatility and deliciousness of carrots as the star ingredient. So grab a spoon, get cozy, and let’s dive in!
Spiced Carrot and Ginger Soup
Warm up with this comforting and aromatic soup that combines the natural sweetness of carrots with the spicy warmth of ginger.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 inches fresh ginger, grated
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup coconut milk or heavy cream (optional)
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh herbs, such as parsley or cilantro (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the chopped carrots, grated ginger, vegetable broth, cumin, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the carrots are tender.
5. Use an immersion blender (or transfer the soup to a blender in batches) to puree the soup until smooth.
6. If desired, stir in coconut milk or heavy cream for added creaminess.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
8. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Creamy Roasted Carrot Soup
A vibrant and comforting soup that showcases the natural sweetness of carrots, elevated by a rich and creamy texture.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs carrots, peeled and chopped into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh herbs (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss carrots with olive oil, onion, and garlic on a baking sheet.
3. Roast for 30-40 minutes, or until carrots are tender and lightly caramelized.
4. In a blender or food processor, combine roasted carrots, vegetable broth, and heavy cream or half-and-half.
5. Blend until smooth, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Curried Carrot and Coconut Soup
This creamy and aromatic soup is a perfect blend of Indian spices, sweetness from carrots, and richness from coconut milk. Serve it with some crusty bread or as a starter for a delightful meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 large carrots, peeled and chopped
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add garlic, carrots, cumin, curry powder, and turmeric. Cook for an additional 5 minutes.
3. Pour in coconut milk and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the carrots are tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Carrot and Sweet Potato Soup
Warm up with this comforting and nutritious soup that combines the natural sweetness of carrots and sweet potatoes with a hint of creaminess. Perfect for a cozy evening or as a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and chopped
– 4 large carrots, chopped
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the chopped onion and butter until softened.
2. Add the sweet potatoes, carrots, and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
3. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, let it cool and blend in a blender.
4. If desired, stir in heavy cream to add a touch of creaminess.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Carrot and Lentil Soup
Warm up with this comforting and nutritious soup that combines the sweetness of carrots with the earthiness of lentils.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 medium-sized carrots, chopped
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic in a little water until softened.
2. Add the chopped carrots and cook for an additional 5 minutes or until they start to soften.
3. Add the lentils, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
5. Season with additional salt and pepper if needed.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Carrot and Coriander Soup
Carrot and Coriander Soup: A flavorful and refreshing soup perfect for a cozy evening or as a healthy snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 tablespoons coriander seeds
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of oil over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the coriander seeds and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant.
4. Add the chopped carrots, garlic, and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the carrots are tender.
5. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, transfer the soup to a blender and blend in batches, then return to the pot.
6. If desired, stir in heavy cream to add richness and creamy texture.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Carrot and Turmeric Soup
This vibrant orange soup is a perfect blend of comforting and nutritious, packed with the anti-inflammatory properties of turmeric. Perfect for a chilly evening or as a healthy lunch option.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 teaspoons ground turmeric
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add onion and garlic, cook until softened (5 minutes).
3. Add carrots, turmeric, and broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer (25-30 minutes) or until carrots are tender.
4. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth.
5. If desired, stir in heavy cream for added richness.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Carrot and Orange Soup
This vibrant soup is a perfect blend of sweet and savory, with the natural sweetness of carrots and oranges balanced by the richness of cream. Serve it as a starter or side dish for your next meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds carrots, peeled and chopped
– 1 large orange, peeled and segmented
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh herbs (such as parsley or cilantro) for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped carrots and cook until they start to soften, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the chicken broth, orange segments, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the carrots are tender.
4. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, let it cool and blend in a blender.
5. Stir in the heavy cream. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve warm, garnished with fresh herbs.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Carrot and Cumin Soup
This vibrant orange soup is a perfect blend of sweet carrots and warm cumin, making it a delicious and comforting meal for any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 2 large carrots, chopped
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until softened.
2. Add the chopped carrots and cook for an additional 5 minutes, or until they start to soften.
3. Stir in the ground cumin and cook for 1 minute.
4. Pour in the vegetable broth and diced tomatoes. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the carrots are tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Carrot and Tomato Soup
This vibrant soup is a perfect blend of sweet carrots and tangy tomatoes, making it a delightful treat for any time of the year. With its comforting warmth and hint of spices, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 large carrots, peeled and chopped
– 1 large tomato, chopped
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the chopped carrots and tomato. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Pour in the vegetable broth and add cumin. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
4. Use an immersion blender or transfer the soup to a blender and puree until smooth.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Carrot and Leek Soup
A creamy and flavorful soup that’s perfect for a chilly evening. This recipe combines the sweetness of carrots with the mild onion flavor of leeks, creating a delicious and comforting meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 large leeks, cleaned and chopped
– 4 medium-sized carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1 cup heavy cream (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped leeks and cook until they’re softened and translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the chopped carrots, onion, and broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
4. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, you can transfer the soup to a blender and blend in batches, then return it to the pot.
5. If desired, stir in the heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Carrot and Chickpea Soup
This vibrant soup is a perfect blend of sweet carrots and nutty chickpeas, with a hint of aromatic spices. It’s a comforting and nutritious meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes!
Ingredients:
– 2 medium-sized carrots, peeled and chopped
– 1 can chickpeas (14.5 oz), drained and rinsed
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)
– 1/4 cup heavy cream or plain Greek yogurt (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the chopped carrots, chickpeas, vegetable broth, cumin, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the carrots are tender.
5. Use an immersion blender (or transfer the soup to a blender in batches) to puree the soup until smooth.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. If desired, stir in heavy cream or Greek yogurt for added richness.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Carrot and Parsnip Soup
A comforting and flavorful soup that’s perfect for a chilly evening. This recipe combines the natural sweetness of carrots with the earthy taste of parsnips, blended together with aromatic spices.
Ingredients:
– 2 large carrots, peeled and chopped
– 1 large parsnip, peeled and chopped
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the chopped carrots and parsnips to the pot. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil.
4. Reduce the heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
5. Use an immersion blender or transfer the soup to a blender to puree the soup until smooth.
6. If desired, stir in heavy cream for added richness.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Carrot and Apple Soup
This creamy soup combines the natural sweetness of carrots and apples with a hint of spice, perfect for a cozy evening meal or as a healthy snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 large carrots, peeled and chopped
– 1 large apple, peeled and chopped
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the chopped carrots and apple, and cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
4. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth, or allow it to cool and blend in a blender.
5. Season with cumin, salt, and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Carrot and Thyme Soup
Warm up with this comforting and flavorful soup that combines the sweetness of carrots with the earthiness of thyme. This recipe is perfect for a chilly evening or as a healthy lunch option.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 4 cups chopped fresh carrots (about 6-8 medium-sized)
– 2 sprigs fresh thyme
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add chopped carrots, thyme sprigs, and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until carrots are tender.
3. Use an immersion blender or transfer the soup to a blender and puree until smooth.
4. If desired, stir in heavy cream or half-and-half to add a rich and creamy texture.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Carrot and Garlic Soup
This creamy soup is a perfect blend of sweet carrots and pungent garlic, making it a delicious and comforting meal for any time of the year. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up this tasty treat in no time.
Ingredients:
– 2 large carrots, peeled and chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the chopped carrots and minced garlic in a little bit of oil until they’re tender.
2. Add the broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the carrots are very tender.
3. Use an immersion blender (or transfer the soup to a blender) to puree the soup until smooth.
4. Stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or chives if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Carrot and Red Pepper Soup
Warm up with this vibrant and flavorful soup that combines the natural sweetness of carrots with the smoky heat of red peppers.
Ingredients:
– 2 large carrots, chopped
– 1 large red bell pepper, chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the chopped carrots and red bell pepper, cooking for an additional 5 minutes.
4. Pour in the vegetable broth, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
6. Use an immersion blender (or transfer the soup to a blender) to puree the soup to desired consistency.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Carrot and Butternut Squash Soup
Warm up with this comforting and flavorful soup, perfect for a chilly day or as a nutritious meal prep option. The sweetness of the carrots and squash is balanced by the savory flavors of onion and garlic.
Ingredients:
– 2 large carrots, peeled and chopped
– 1 medium butternut squash (about 2 lbs), peeled, seeded, and chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or coconut cream (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss carrots and squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 30-40 minutes or until tender.
3. In a large pot, sauté onion and garlic in olive oil until softened.
4. Add roasted vegetables, vegetable broth, and heavy cream or coconut cream (if using). Blend until smooth.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve warm, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Carrot and Celery Soup
This creamy soup is a delicious way to enjoy the flavors of spring. With carrots and celery as the stars, this recipe is perfect for a light and refreshing meal or snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 large carrots, chopped
– 4 stalks celery, chopped
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the chopped carrots and celery and cook for an additional 5 minutes, or until they begin to soften.
3. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
4. Use an immersion blender (or transfer the soup to a blender) to puree the soup until smooth.
5. If desired, stir in heavy cream to add a rich and creamy texture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Carrot and Rosemary Soup
This refreshing soup combines the sweetness of carrots with the earthy flavor of rosemary, perfect for a light and comforting meal or as an accompaniment to your favorite sandwich.
Ingredients:
– 2 large carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 3 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the chopped carrots and rosemary sprigs. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the carrots are tender.
4. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, transfer the soup to a blender and blend in batches, then return to the pot.
5. If desired, stir in the heavy cream to add richness and creaminess.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Summary
Get ready to cozy up with these 20 delicious and creamy carrot soup recipes! From Spiced Carrot and Ginger Soup to Carrot and Sweet Potato Soup, each recipe offers a unique twist on this classic favorite. Whether you’re in the mood for something warm and spicy or comforting and familiar, there’s a recipe here to suit your taste. With flavors ranging from curry and coconut to cumin and coriander, these soups are sure to become new staples in your kitchen. So go ahead, get creative, and indulge in the creamy goodness!
