This carrot potato soup is warm, creamy, and oh-so comforting! It combines sweet carrots and fluffy potatoes to create a delicious bowl of happiness.
Plus, it’s super easy to make! Just throw everything in a pot, let it cook, and blend it up. Perfect for chilly nights or when you just need a little pick-me-up!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Carrots: Fresh, vibrant carrots are a must for this soup. Their natural sweetness will shine through. If you’re short on carrots, you can use parsnips or sweet potatoes for a different but still delightful flavor.
Potatoes: I prefer Yukon Golds for their creamy texture, but russets or red potatoes can work too. For a lower-carb option, consider using cauliflower florets instead—they’ll blend nicely into the soup.
Onion and Garlic: These aromatics build a wonderful flavor base. If you want a milder taste, you can use leeks instead of onion. Garlic powder can substitute fresh garlic in a pinch.
Vegetable Broth: Homemade stock is great if you have it, but store-bought is fine too. Chicken broth adds more flavor if you’re not keeping it strictly vegetarian. You can also use water with added seasonings.
How Do I Get the Right Consistency for My Soup?
Getting the perfect texture for your carrot potato soup is key. Here’s how to nail it:
- After cooking, decide if you want a chunky or smooth soup. For chunks, just lightly mash some vegetables with a potato masher in the pot.
- For a smooth texture, let the soup cool slightly, then use an immersion blender or transfer to a countertop blender in batches.
- Always blend carefully! Hot liquids can splatter, so let the soup cool a bit or blend in smaller amounts.
Adjust thickness by adding more broth or water if it’s too thick after blending. Enjoy your soup just the way you like it!
How to Make Carrot Potato Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 large carrots, peeled and sliced
- 3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin (optional, for extra warmth)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe should take around 10 minutes to prepare and about 30 minutes to cook. In total, you’re looking at about 40 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a cozy night in!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté Aromatics:
Start by heating the olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium heat. Once hot, add in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onion is translucent and the garlic is fragrant. This will create a cozy, aromatic base for your soup!
2. Add Vegetables:
Next, toss in the sliced carrots and diced potatoes. Stir everything together so the vegetables are well mixed. This will help everything cook evenly.
3. Pour in the Broth:
Now, add the vegetable broth to the pot. Make sure the vegetables are covered by the liquid. If they’re not, feel free to add a splash more broth or a little water.
4. Season and Simmer:
Stir in the dried thyme and cumin if you’re using them, and season the soup with salt and pepper according to your taste. Bring the soup to a boil, then turn the heat down low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the carrots and potatoes are tender and soft.
5. Blend to Your Liking:
If you prefer a chunky soup, grab a potato masher and mash some of the vegetables directly in the pot to your desired chunkiness. For a smooth soup, use an immersion blender to carefully puree the soup until it reaches your preferred consistency.
6. Final Adjustments:
Give your soup a taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. A little extra salt or pepper can make a big difference!
7. Serve It Up:
Ladle the warm soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley or cilantro for a pop of color and freshness. Enjoy your delicious carrot potato soup with some crusty bread on the side for dipping!
This hearty, comforting soup is a great way to enjoy the flavors of carrots and potatoes together. It’s perfect for warming up on a chilly day!
Can I Use Different Vegetables in This Soup?
Absolutely! This soup is quite versatile. You can add other vegetables like celery, bell peppers, or even spinach for extra nutrients and flavor. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time for harder vegetables accordingly!
Can I Make This Soup Creamy?
Yes! For a creamier texture, you can add some heavy cream or coconut milk after blending the soup. Stir in about half a cup, then heat through for a lovely, rich finish!
How to Store Leftover Soup?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally for even heating. If it thickens too much, add a little broth or water to bring it back to your desired consistency.
Can I Freeze Carrot Potato Soup?
Yes, this soup freezes beautifully! Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
