This vibrant, nourishing carrot and coriander soup is a delightful, healthy option for any time of year. Its smooth texture, combined with the aromatic flavor of fresh coriander, creates a comforting bowl of goodness. Whether you’re looking for a quick meal or a cozy dish to warm you up on a chilly day, this soup delivers on both flavor and nutrition.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Carrot and coriander soup is a classic comfort food that is incredibly simple to make yet packs a punch of flavors. With just a few wholesome ingredients, it’s naturally dairy-free, vegan, and gluten-free, making it suitable for a wide variety of diets. The combination of carrots’ natural sweetness and the earthy, citrusy notes of fresh coriander makes this soup both satisfying and refreshing. Plus, it’s low in calories, high in fiber, and perfect for freezing, so you can always have a healthy lunch on hand.
Ingredients
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1 tbsp vegetable oil
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1 onion, sliced
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450g (1lb) carrots, peeled and sliced
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1 tsp ground coriander
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1.2 liters (2 pints) vegetable stock
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Large bunch of fresh coriander, roughly chopped
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Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
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Heat the vegetable oil in a large frying pan over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and carrots, cooking for 3–4 minutes until they begin to soften.
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Stir in the ground coriander and season with salt and pepper. Cook for an additional minute to allow the spices to release their fragrance.
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Add the vegetable stock to the pan, bringing it to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for 10–15 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
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Use a hand blender or transfer the soup to a regular blender to blend until smooth and creamy. If the soup is too thick for your preference, stir in a little boiling water to reach your desired consistency.
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Reheat the soup in a saucepan, then stir in the chopped fresh coriander just before serving.
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Serve the soup hot, garnished with extra coriander leaves or a swirl of cream or olive oil, if desired.
Servings and Timing
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Servings: 4
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Prep Time: less than 30 minutes
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Cook Time: 10–30 minutes
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Total Time: 30 minutes
Variations
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Add Protein: For an extra boost, add cooked lentils or beans to the soup for added protein and texture.
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Roasted Carrots: For a deeper flavor, roast the carrots before adding them to the soup. This will add a caramelized, sweet note to the dish.
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Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of chili flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
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Herb Variations: While coriander is the star here, you can experiment with other fresh herbs such as parsley, basil, or thyme for a different flavor profile.
Storage/Reheating
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Storage: Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
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Freezing: This soup freezes wonderfully! Portion it into containers or freezer bags, and it will last up to 3 months. When ready to eat, simply defrost and reheat.
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Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over low heat until warmed through. If it has thickened too much during storage, add a splash of water or vegetable stock to loosen it.
FAQs
Can I use pre-ground coriander instead of fresh coriander?
Yes, ground coriander can be used, though fresh coriander adds a more vibrant and fragrant flavor. If using ground coriander, you might want to add a little more to match the flavor profile.
Can I use another type of stock?
While vegetable stock is recommended, you can use chicken stock or even water if you prefer a lighter flavor.
Is this soup suitable for freezing?
Yes, carrot and coriander soup freezes beautifully. Just make sure it cools completely before storing it in airtight containers.
How can I make the soup creamier?
If you prefer a creamier soup, add a splash of coconut milk, almond milk, or a dollop of non-dairy yogurt before blending.
Can I add other vegetables to this soup?
Absolutely! You can add parsnips, sweet potatoes, or even a bit of pumpkin for additional depth of flavor.
How can I thicken the soup if it’s too thin?
If your soup is too thin after blending, simply stir in a little more boiled water or stock to achieve the right consistency. For a thicker soup, simmer it a bit longer to allow more liquid to evaporate.
Can I use dried coriander instead of fresh?
Dried coriander will provide a slightly different flavor, but it will work in the soup. Just be mindful that fresh coriander offers a more aromatic, citrusy flavor.
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, this soup can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator or freezer. It will actually taste better the next day as the flavors meld together.
How do I know when the carrots are tender enough to blend?
The carrots are ready to blend once they can be easily pierced with a fork. They should be soft but not mushy.
Can I add some protein to the soup?
For a heartier meal, you can add cooked lentils, beans, or even some diced chicken for added protein.
Conclusion
Carrot and coriander soup is the perfect meal for anyone looking for a nutritious, comforting dish that’s easy to prepare and full of flavor. This vibrant, dairy-free soup makes for a healthy lunch or dinner, and it’s even better when made in advance or frozen for later. The combination of sweet carrots and aromatic coriander is not only delicious but also versatile, allowing for various customizations based on your preferences. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or simply enjoying a bowl of warmth on a cold day, this soup is sure to satisfy!
