A Hug in a Bowl: My Spicy Vegan Carrot Soup
Sometimes, the simplest things are the most comforting. That's how I feel about this carrot soup. It's not just a recipe; it's a hug in a bowl. It’s one of those recipes that came to life from a lazy afternoon of fridge scrounging. I was looking for leftovers and found a bunch of carrots. A few minutes later after digging through my pantry for flavor, this creamy, dreamy concoction was born.
Why You'll Love This Soup
- Effortless: This recipe is a breeze to make, with minimal prep and cook time.
- Versatile: It's naturally vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free, making it suitable for various dietary needs.
- Flavorful: The combination of sweet carrots, creamy coconut milk, and a hint of red curry paste creates a symphony of flavors.
- Quick: Use an Instant Pot for super speed, or simmer it on the stovetop for a more traditional approach.
- Freezable: Make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week, or freeze some for a future craving.
Ingredients
- 8-10 large carrots, peeled and chopped
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, peeled
- 1 14-ounce can coconut milk
- 1 1/2 cups vegetable broth
- 1/4 cup peanut butter (or almond butter for a nut-free option)
- 1 tablespoon red curry paste
- Salt to taste
- Fresh cilantro and chopped peanuts for garnish
Instructions
Stovetop Directions
- Sauté the onion and garlic in a bit of oil until softened.
- Add the carrots, coconut milk, broth, and curry paste. Simmer until carrots are tender.
- Stir in the peanut butter until melted. Use an immersion blender or carefully transfer the mixture to a blender and blend until smooth.
- Season with salt, and garnish with peanuts and cilantro.
Instant Pot Directions
- Place all ingredients in the Instant Pot.
- Set the timer for 15 minutes.
- Let the pressure release naturally or do a quick release, carefully.
- Blend until smooth, season with salt, and garnish with cilantro and peanuts.
Tips and Variations
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of curry paste to your liking. Start with less and add more until you reach the desired level of heat. Or, for a less spicy version, use cumin or a pinch of turmeric instead.
- Consistency: If the soup is too thick, add more broth until you reach your preferred consistency.
- Add-Ins: Experiment with other vegetables like sweet potatoes or butternut squash. A squeeze of lime or lemon juice at the end will brighten up the flavor.
- Nut-Free Option: Use almond butter or sunflower seed butter to keep it nut-free.
- Toppings: Add a swirl of coconut cream, a sprinkle of chili flakes, or a drizzle of sriracha.
Sharing the Love
This soup is perfect for sharing with loved ones, especially those who might need a little extra comfort. The story behind this recipe is about sharing love and food to people who need it. I hope that you enjoy this recipe, and let me know if you enjoyed it in the comments.
Happy cooking!