Ginger Carrot Bisque
A velvety ginger carrot bisque rich in warm spices and bright citrus notes, perfect for comforting lunches or elegant starters suited for all palates.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt butter in a heavy large saucepan over medium heat.
- Add carrots and onions, cover, and cook until vegetables begin to soften, about 15 minutes.
- Stir in minced ginger, grated orange peel, and ground coriander.
- Add 2 cups of chicken stock, reduce heat to medium low, cover, and simmer until carrots are very tender, about 30 minutes.
- Puree the soup in batches in a processor or blender until smooth.
- Return the pureed soup to the saucepan, add remaining 3 cups of stock and half & half.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Reheat over medium heat until warm, then ladle into bowls.
- Garnish with parsley and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra depth of flavor, consider adding a dash of nutmeg or a splash of orange juice along with the orange peel. If you prefer a vegan version, substitute the butter with olive oil and use vegetable broth instead of chicken stock. To save time, you can use pre-chopped onions and pre-peeled carrots available at many grocery stores.
Serving Suggestions
This Ginger Carrot Bisque pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a light salad for a complete meal. Consider serving it alongside a main dish like Veal With Wine Sauce for a hearty dinner. For an elegant touch, garnish with fresh parsley or a swirl of cream before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the bisque on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. If the soup thickens too much, you can add a bit more broth or water to achieve your desired consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ginger Carrot Bisque contains roughly 1157 calories, with 67g protein, 137g carbohydrates, and 56g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (561% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (299% of the Daily Value), and iron (222% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1012mg per serving (44% of the Daily Value).
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 make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, this soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator. In fact, the flavors often deepen after a day. Just make sure to reheat it gently, adding a little more broth if it thickens.
Can I freeze the Ginger Carrot Bisque?
Absolutely! This bisque freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
What can I use instead of half & half?
If you want a lighter option, you can substitute half & half with whole milk or a plant-based milk like almond or oat milk. For a creamier texture, consider using coconut milk for a unique twist.
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).