Carrot Soup Extraordinaire
A vibrant and creamy carrot soup infused with orange and cloves, perfect for warming up or cooling down, suitable for both casual and elegant occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute onion in butter until translucent.
- Add sliced carrots and chicken stock; simmer until carrots are tender.
- Puree the mixture in a blender until smooth.
- Stir in thawed orange juice and light cream.
- Add 2 or 3 dashes of powdered cloves and mix well.
- Serve hot or cold.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using homemade chicken stock instead of store-bought. If you prefer a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper along with the cloves. To make it dairy-free, substitute the light cream with coconut milk. Adjust the amount of orange juice based on your sweetness preference; fresh orange juice can also be used for a brighter flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This carrot soup pairs beautifully with a crusty bread or a light salad for a complete meal. For an elegant touch, garnish with a swirl of cream or fresh herbs like parsley. It can be served hot as a comforting dish or chilled for a refreshing starter at summer gatherings. Consider serving alongside Mary'S Chicken Spaghetti for a delightful contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover carrot soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. If the soup thickens, you can add a splash of chicken stock or water to reach your desired consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Carrot Soup Extraordinaire contains roughly 862 calories, with 9g protein, 92g carbohydrates, and 54g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (333% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (83% of the Daily Value), and potassium (56% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and calcium. It also contributes 23g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze the carrot soup?
Yes, you can freeze the soup for up to 3 months. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. When ready to use, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stove, adding a little stock or water if it seems too thick.
What can I use instead of light cream?
If you're looking for a lower-calorie option, you can substitute light cream with half-and-half or even whole milk. For a dairy-free alternative, use coconut milk or a non-dairy cream substitute. Each option will slightly alter the flavor and texture, but they will still yield a delicious soup.
How can I add more protein to this dish?
To boost the protein content, consider adding cooked shredded chicken or a dollop of Greek yogurt as a garnish. Alternatively, serving the soup alongside a protein-rich dish like Waverly Chicken Casserole makes for a well-rounded meal that satisfies.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).