Creamy Carrot Soup with Bacon Recipe

There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm bowl of creamy carrot soup, especially as the days grow a bit chillier. I’ll never forget the first time I made it; the kitchen filled with the enticing aroma of sautéing onions and garlic mingled with the smokiness of crispy bacon. It was as if the soup itself was wrapping me in a warm embrace, perfect for chasing away the evening’s chill. As I took my first spoonful, the velvety texture and the subtle sweetness of the carrots, complemented by the salty richness of bacon, created a harmony that sparked an instant love affair.

Recipe Timing

• Prep Duration: 15 minutes
• Active Cooking: 35 minutes
• Total Duration: 50 minutes
• Portion Size: Serves 4-6
• Complexity: Simple

Nutritional Recipe

• Calories per portion: Approximately 250 calories
• Protein: 8 grams
• Carbs: 30 grams
• Fats: 12 grams
• Fiber: 4 grams
• Sugars: 6 grams
• Sodium: 600 mg

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Carrot Soup with Bacon Recipe

Imagine cozying up with a bowl of this luxurious soup, the vibrant orange hue enticing you before you even take a sip. Not only is each mouthful rich and creamy with the perfect amount of seasoning, but the addition of bacon adds a rustic charm that elevates this dish. Plus, it’s versatile enough for lunch, dinner, or even as a first course for a dinner party. And don’t get me started on the fun of swirling cream on top – it’s almost like painting your own culinary masterpiece!

The Complete Cooking Journey

The journey to making this creamy carrot soup is as delightful as the final product. Following each step, you’ll create a medley of flavors that come together beautifully. Just imagine the comforting aroma wafting through your kitchen, beckoning everyone to the table.

Ingredients:

• 1 tbsp olive oil or butter
• 4 slices streaky bacon (~120g/4oz)
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 5 large carrots, cut into 1.5 cm / 3/5″ chunks
• 1 litre / 1 quart vegetable or chicken broth (4 cups)
• 1/2 cup / 125 ml cream
• 3/4 cup / 185 ml milk (any fat %)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh thyme or chopped parsley
• Cream, for swirling
• Crusty bread

Method:

Step 1: Heat the Oil

Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.

Step 2: Cook the Bacon

Add bacon and cook until golden and crispy. Remove from the pot, allow to cool slightly, then chop into small pieces.

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics

Add chopped onion and minced garlic into the bacon drippings in the pot. Cook for about 2 minutes until the onion becomes translucent but avoid browning.

Step 4: Add the Carrots

Stir in the carrot chunks and coat them well in the oil and drippings to release their flavor.

Step 5: Pour in the Broth

Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth and stir. Cover the pot with a lid and adjust heat so the soup is simmering energetically (medium heat). Cook for 20 to 25 minutes until the carrots are very soft and tender.

Step 6: Blend the Soup

Remove the lid and turn off the heat. Use a stick blender directly in the pot to puree the carrot mixture until smooth. Alternatively, cool the soup slightly and blend in a stand blender in batches.

Step 7: Stir in Cream and Milk

Stir in the cream, milk, salt, and pepper to taste. Adjust the soup’s thickness by adding more milk or water if desired.

Step 8: Serve It Up

Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with swirls of cream, chopped bacon, and fresh parsley or thyme. Serve alongside crusty bread for dipping.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

This creamy carrot soup pairs wonderfully with a rustic crusty bread, perfect for dipping. You can also serve it alongside grilled cheese sandwiches or a fresh garden salad to create a light yet satisfying meal.

Storage & Leftovers Guide

To store leftovers, let the soup cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. Refrigerated, it will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze the soup in portions for up to 3 months—just be sure to leave some room for expansion!

Kitchen Wisdom & Success Tips

1. Sautéing Garlic: Keep an eye on the garlic as it cooks; it can burn quickly, altering the soup’s flavor.
2. Flavor Boosting: For a punch of flavor, add a splash of apple cider vinegar just before serving.
3. Blending: If you prefer a chunky soup, blend only half of the mixture and leave the rest as is.
4. Serving Cold: This soup can also be delicious served cold, perfect for summer days!

Flavor Variations & Adaptations

Feel free to customize this soup to your taste! Add spices like ginger or cumin for warmth, or mix in some sautéed leeks for a different dimension. For a vegan version, simply skip the bacon and use coconut cream.

Reader Questions & Solutions

1. Can I make this soup in advance?
   Absolutely! It actually tastes even better the next day after the flavors have melded.

2. I don’t have a stick blender. What do I do?
   No worries! Just let the soup cool slightly and blend in batches using a stand blender.

3. What can I substitute for bacon?
   You can use smoked paprika or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for a smoky flavor without the meat.

4. How do I make it spicier?
   Adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of chili flakes will spice things up perfectly.

5. What should I do if it’s too thick?
   Simply stir in more broth or milk until you reach your desired consistency.

Wrapping Up

This creamy carrot soup with bacon is not just a recipe; it’s a cozy ritual that invites warmth into your home. With its simple ingredients and heartwarming flavor, it’s the perfect dish to share with loved ones. So, grab your pot, dust off that old soup spoon, and immerse yourself in the delightful world of carrot soup. Happy cooking, and enjoy every spoonful!

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