Introduction
As the chilly winds of the UK blow stronger, there's nothing more satisfying than a warm bowl of soup. Packed with nutrition and warmth, a roasted carrot and pepper soup offers a delightful combination of flavours and a velvety texture that makes it a household favourite. What makes this recipe unique is the use of an air fryer, allowing for a healthier spin on the classic roasting technique with minimal oil. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe will guide you to achieving a perfect, comforting bowl of soup.
Ingredients
- 500g carrots, peeled and chopped
- 2 red peppers, deseeded and chopped
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 750ml vegetable stock
- 100ml cream or a vegan alternative for creaminess
Instructions
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 200°C.
- Prepare the Vegetables: In a bowl, toss the carrots, red peppers, onion, and garlic with olive oil, cumin, and smoked paprika ensuring they are evenly coated.
- Air Fry the Vegetables: Place the vegetables in the air fryer basket and cook for 15–20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even roasting.
- Blend the Soup: Once the vegetables are roasted and tender, transfer them to a blender. Add the vegetable stock and blend until smooth.
- Simmer: Pour the blended mixture into a saucepan, add the cream, and gently simmer on low heat for 10 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with a drizzle of olive oil or a swirl of cream, and serve hot.
Tips for Perfect Soup
Here are some tips to enhance your roasted carrot and pepper soup:
- Uniform Size: Cut the vegetables into uniform sizes for even roasting.
- Customise the Spice: Adjust the amount of cumin and smoked paprika to your taste preference.
- Heat Variation: If you prefer a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red chilli flakes.
- Storage: This soup can be stored in the fridge for up to three days or frozen for up to three months.
Health Benefits
This soup is not only delicious but also comes packed with health benefits. Carrots are rich in beta-carotene important for eye health, while red peppers provide vitamin C and antioxidants. Using an air fryer reduces the need for excessive oil, making this recipe a heart-healthy choice.
Conclusion
Embrace the comforting warmth of this roasted carrot and pepper soup on a cold UK evening. Perfectly air-fried vegetables make this dish a guilt-free option packed with taste and nutrients. Whether it's a starter or the main course, this soup promises comfort and satisfaction with every spoonful. Try this recipe today and add it to your list of go-to comforting meals.