Cherry Soup
A vibrant and tangy cherry soup with warm spices, perfect for a refreshing summer treat or a comforting winter dessert, suitable for any occasion.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large saucepan, combine cherries, water, wine, cinnamon stick, and cloves.
- Bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer until fruit is soft, about 10 to 15 minutes.
- Add sugar and orange rind, stirring until sugar is dissolved.
- Remove cinnamon stick and cloves and discard.
- Puree the cherry mixture in a blender.
- Pour the pureed mixture back into the pan.
- Stir in arrowroot mixed with a little of the fruit mixture.
- Cook over low heat until slightly thickened.
- Serve hot with dumplings or cold with a dollop of whipped cream.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider adding a splash of vanilla extract or a few fresh mint leaves during simmering. If tart cherries are unavailable, sweet cherries can be used, but reduce the sugar slightly. For a thicker consistency, use cornstarch instead of arrowroot. Ensure the cherries are ripe for the best taste; you can also experiment by adding a splash of orange juice for extra brightness.
Serving Suggestions
Cherry soup is delightful served hot, especially alongside dumplings or a dollop of whipped cream for added richness. For a unique pairing, consider serving it with a slice of pound cake or alongside a bowl of Spiced Fresh Fruit Salad for a refreshing contrast. It can also be enjoyed cold, making it versatile for any season.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the soup on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. If you prefer it cold, it can also be enjoyed straight from the fridge, making it a refreshing treat on warm days.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cherry Soup contains roughly 666 calories, with 9g protein, 122g carbohydrates, and 24g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (97% of the Daily Value), iron (49% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (46% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. It also contributes 27g 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 use frozen cherries instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen cherries can be used in this recipe. Just be sure to thaw them first and drain any excess liquid to maintain the soup's consistency. The flavor will still be delicious, making it a great option when fresh cherries are out of season.
How can I make this recipe vegan?
To make this cherry soup vegan, simply replace the dry red wine with vegetable broth or additional water. Ensure that any optional toppings, such as whipped cream, are dairy-free alternatives. This way, you can enjoy the delightful flavors without compromising dietary preferences.
What can I do if the soup is too tart?
If the soup turns out too tart for your taste, you can balance the acidity by adding more sugar or a drizzle of honey to taste. Another option is to blend in a banana or a little bit of maple syrup for natural sweetness, which can complement the tart cherries beautifully.
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).