Creamy Carrot Soup with Ginger Foam: A Culinary Delight
This recipe showcases a simple yet elegant way to elevate a classic carrot soup with a light and airy ginger foam. The foam adds a sophisticated textural contrast and a burst of vibrant ginger flavor, transforming a familiar dish into a culinary experience. This recipe is perfect for a light lunch, a sophisticated starter, or an impressive dinner party dish.
Ingredients:
For the Carrot Soup:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 kg carrots, peeled and chopped
- 1 litre vegetable broth
- 200ml coconut milk (full-fat recommended for creaminess)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Ginger Foam:
- 50g fresh ginger, peeled and roughly chopped
- 100ml vegetable broth
- 100ml heavy cream
Instructions:
Making the Carrot Soup:
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add the chopped carrots and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the carrots are tender.
- Carefully transfer the soup to a blender (or use an immersion blender) and blend until completely smooth.
- Stir in the coconut milk, salt, and pepper. Heat through gently, do not boil.
Making the Ginger Foam:
- Combine the ginger and vegetable broth in a small saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
- Strain the ginger mixture through a fine-mesh sieve, discarding the solids. You should have about 80-90ml of ginger liquid.
- In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form.
- Gently whisk the ginger liquid into the whipped cream until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this will deflate the cream.
Assembling the Dish:
- Ladle the carrot soup into bowls.
- Carefully spoon or pipe the ginger foam on top of the soup.
- Serve immediately and enjoy the delightful combination of creamy soup and airy foam.
Tips and Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the soup for a spicy kick.
- Add sweetness: A teaspoon of maple syrup or honey can balance the ginger’s sharpness and add a touch of sweetness.
- Garnish: Enhance the presentation with a sprinkle of fresh chives, parsley, or a drizzle of coconut cream.
- Other foam variations: Experiment with other flavors! Try creating foams with herbs like basil or mint, or even roasted vegetables like butternut squash.
This recipe provides a framework; feel free to adjust seasonings and ingredients to match your taste preferences. Remember to use fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best results. Enjoy creating this delicious and impressive dish!
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