Description
This Creamy Carrot Soup is a rich, velvety blend of sweet carrots, savory smoked meat, and aromatic vegetables, creating a comforting and gourmet-tasting dish. Ready in just 30 minutes, this easy one-pot soup is perfect for a cozy lunch or dinner. Customize it with spices, dairy-free alternatives, or additional vegetables for a unique twist!
Ingredients
- 6 oz smoked turkey or beef sausage, diced
- 1 large yellow onion, diced (about 2 cups)
- 1 celery rib, diced (½ cup)
- 2 lbs carrots (about 8 large), peeled and sliced into ½-inch rings
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tsp sea salt (or to taste)
- ⅛ tsp black pepper
- 4 cups chicken stock or reduced-sodium broth
- ½ cup milk
- ½ cup heavy whipping cream (plus more for garnish)
- 2 Tbsp parsley (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Smoked Meat – In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the diced smoked turkey or beef sausage over medium heat until browned and slightly crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pot.
- Sauté Vegetables – Add diced onion, celery, and sliced carrots to the pot. Cook for 6-8 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic, salt, and black pepper; cook for an additional minute.
- Simmer – Pour in the chicken stock and bring to a simmer. Partially cover the pot and cook for 20-25 minutes, or until the carrots are tender.
- Blend – Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, carefully transfer the soup in batches to a blender, blend until smooth, and return it to the pot.
- Add Dairy – Stir in the milk and heavy whipping cream. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Bring the soup back to a simmer, then remove from heat.
- Serve – Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with reserved smoked turkey or beef sausage pieces, chopped parsley, and a drizzle of cream if desired.
Notes
- Vegetarian Version – Omit the smoked meat and use vegetable broth instead. Sauté veggies in butter or olive oil.
- Spiced Carrot Soup – Add 1 tsp of ground cumin or curry powder for extra warmth and depth.
- Carrot Ginger Soup – Stir in 1-2 Tbsp of freshly grated ginger for a zesty twist.
- Thicker Soup – Let the soup simmer uncovered to reduce or stir in a cornstarch slurry for extra thickness.
