Hot Pear Soup
A warming, fragrant pear soup with subtle tarragon notes, perfect for elegant starters or light lunches, blending sweet and savory flavors for a comforting experience.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Simmer the chopped leek and butter, covered, for 15 minutes.
- Add the peeled, cored, and quartered pears along with the white wine, then bring to a boil until the pears are cooked.
- Puree all the cooked ingredients until smooth.
- Strain the mixture if needed for a finer texture.
- Add the chicken stock and fresh tarragon to the pureed mixture and simmer until heated through.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or cinnamon to the soup while simmering. If you don’t have fresh tarragon, dried tarragon can be used, but reduce the amount to about 1 teaspoon. This soup can also be enhanced with a splash of cream for added richness, similar to how it's done in Cream Of Watercress Soup.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the hot pear soup in warm bowls for an inviting presentation. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a light salad for a complete meal. Consider garnishing with a sprinkle of fresh herbs or a drizzle of cream for an elegant touch. This dish complements chicken recipes well, especially those with mild flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover hot pear soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Avoid boiling to maintain the smooth texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hot Pear Soup contains roughly 561 calories, with 19g protein, 39g carbohydrates, and 40g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (136% of the Daily Value), calcium (67% of the Daily Value), and potassium (49% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1688mg per serving (73% 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, you can prepare the soup ahead of time. Just follow the recipe up to the blending step, let it cool, and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, reheat and add the chicken stock and tarragon before enjoying.
What type of pears are best for this soup?
Bartlett or Bosc pears work best for this soup due to their sweetness and smooth texture when cooked. Avoid using unripe pears, as they may not soften properly during cooking.
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute the chicken stock with vegetable broth to make a vegetarian version of the soup. This will still provide a rich flavor while keeping it meat-free, perfect for a light lunch or dinner.
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).