Orange soup is one of the most comforting and nourishing recipes, especially suited for the winter season. The combination of carrots, pumpkin, sweet potatoes, onion, and celery creates a rich, flavorful soup with a velvety texture that warms both the body and the heart. It’s easy to make, pairs wonderfully with various toppings, and can serve as a starter or even a main dish.
This soup is not only delicious but also packed with vitamins and minerals, making it a perfect meal that’s both comforting and nutritious. It’s ideal as a main course on cold winter days and can be made easily in one pot, making it great for those with limited time.
With simple preparation, excellent flavors, and – most importantly – a satisfying meal for the whole family, this soup is a winner.
Ingredients:
- Onion – 1 small, chopped
- Carrots – 2-3
- Pumpkin – Half a medium pumpkin, peeled and cut into cubes
- Sweet Potato – 1 medium, peeled and cut
- Salt and Pepper – to taste
- Liquid (water or vegetable stock) – 8 cups
Note: The ingredients are listed in the order of use in the recipe. feel free to adjust the quantities based on personal preference.
Instructions:
- Preparation:
Start by washing the vegetables and peeling the sweet potato, carrots, and pumpkin. Cut the sweet potato and pumpkin into uniform pieces so they cook evenly. Cut the carrots into smaller pieces as they take longer to cook. Since the soup will be blended at the end, you can chop the onion and other ingredients roughly. It’s helpful to prepare everything in advance to avoid stress during cooking. - Cooking the Soup:
In a large pot, heat some oil and begin sautéing the onion and root vegetables over medium heat. Wait until they soften and lightly brown, releasing their flavors. Once the vegetables have changed color and texture, add spices and the liquid to cover the vegetables completely. - Simmering:
After adding the liquid, stir the soup well, making sure to scrape any bits stuck to the bottom of the pot, which will enrich the flavor of the soup. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium and simmer for about 45 minutes, or until the vegetables are completely tender. - Blending:
Once the vegetables are tender, blend the soup using an immersion blender in the pot (after allowing it to cool slightly). Blend until the soup reaches a completely smooth consistency.
Tips for Upgrading the Soup:
- Vegetable Stock: For a richer soup, use vegetable stock instead of water.
- Herbs: Garnish with chopped parsley, cilantro, or dill to enhance the flavor.
- Fresh Lemon: Squeezing fresh lemon juice into the bowl before serving adds a touch of acidity to balance the sweetness of the vegetables.
- Nuts: You can add walnuts, Brazil nuts, macadamia nuts, chestnuts, or other types that pair beautifully with the soup.
- Croutons: Serve the soup with crunchy toast or homemade croutons for a delicious contrast in texture.
How to Store the Soup:
The soup will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 4 days. If it thickens after refrigeration, simply add a little water or stock while reheating.
Enjoy and bon appétit!