As the golden rays of autumn settle in, there’s an undeniable charm in savoring a warm bowl of comfort. Today, I’m thrilled to share my creamy vegan carrot potato soup; it’s a recipe that transforms simple ingredients into a soul-soothing dish. This soup not only offers the delightful blend of natural sweetness from carrots and creamy body from potatoes, but it also packs in nourishing health benefits, making it a perfect choice for any meal. With minimal prep time and the indulgent texture from homemade cashew cream, it hits the sweet spot between health-conscious and comforting. Whether you’re winding down from a busy day or scouring for something wholesome yet delectable, this soup is your ticket to cozy bliss. Ready to discover how to whip up this satisfying bowl of goodness?
Why is this soup a must-try?
Comforting Warmth: This creamy vegan carrot potato soup wraps you in a cozy embrace, perfect for chilly evenings.
Nutritious Delight: Packed with beta-carotene and vitamins, it’s a healthful choice for all ages.
Effortless Preparation: With simple steps like blending cashews, you can create a restaurant-style dish at home.
Versatile Flavors: Feel free to experiment by adding herbs or greens, just like in my Caramel Pecan Carrot recipe.
Perfect Pairings: Serve with crusty bread or a side salad for a delightful meal, akin to my favorite Sweet Potato Honey biscuits!
This soup isn’t just food; it’s the essence of comfort captured in a bowl.
Carrot Potato Soup Ingredients
For the Soup Base
- Carrots – the star ingredient that imparts a natural sweetness and vibrant color to the soup.
- Potatoes – provide the creamy base, making each spoonful rich and comforting.
- Celery – adds depth and additional nutrients, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
- Water – the essential liquid to create the perfect texture; adjust based on your preferred thickness.
- Bouillon Cubes – enhances the Umami flavor; you can substitute it with vegetable broth for an even richer taste.
For the Creaminess
- Cashews – blended into a luxe cream, giving the soup that velvety smoothness; for non-vegan options, heavy cream works wonderfully as a substitute.
For Seasoning
- Salt – vital to elevate the flavors; adjust to taste.
- Pepper – a touch of heat that complements the sweetness of carrots; season liberally for depth.
This creamy vegan carrot potato soup is the perfect harmony of flavors and textures in a bowl!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Creamy Vegan Carrot Potato Soup
Step 1: Prepare the Cashew Cream
Begin by soaking 1 cup of cashews in water for at least 2 hours, or for a quick soak, boil water and let them sit for 10 minutes. After soaking, drain and transfer the cashews to a blender. Add 1 to 1.5 cups of fresh water, then blend on high until completely smooth and creamy—this will form the luxurious base for your creamy vegan carrot potato soup.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In a large pot, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add 1 diced onion and 1 to 2 stalks of diced celery to the pot, sautéing them for about 5–7 minutes until they’re soft and translucent. These aromatic vegetables will add depth to your soup, so stir occasionally and cook until they’re fragrant and tender.
Step 3: Cook the Base Ingredients
Next, add 4 cups of chopped carrots and 2 cups of diced potatoes to the pot. Stir them in with the sautéed vegetables, then pour in around 4 cups of water along with 2 bouillon cubes. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and allow it to simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and easily pierced with a fork.
Step 4: Blend the Soup
Once the carrots and potatoes are cooked, using an immersion blender, puree the soup directly in the pot until it’s silky smooth and creamy. If you don’t have an immersion blender, carefully transfer the soup in batches to a standard blender, blending until smooth. Return the soup to low heat on the stove to keep warm while you move to the next step.
Step 5: Incorporate the Cashew Cream
Stir in the prepared cashew cream into the blended soup, mixing thoroughly to achieve that delightful creamy texture characteristic of this carrot potato soup. Allow the soup to heat through for an additional 5 minutes on low heat, ensuring it doesn’t simmer. Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting to your preference, and prepare to serve this comforting bowl of goodness.
Carrot Potato Soup Variations
Feel free to elevate and personalize your creamy vegan carrot potato soup with these delightful twists!
Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary during cooking for a fragrant boost. Their earthy notes harmonize beautifully with the sweetness of carrots.
Sweet Potato Swap: Substitute sweet potatoes for regular potatoes to bring a hint of caramel flavor to the soup. This variation not only changes the taste but also adds an enticing color and extra nutrients.
Greens Galore: Fold in chopped spinach or kale just before blending to pack in more vitamins without changing the creamy texture. These greens bring a pop of color and nutrients to each comforting bowl.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce for a warm kick. The heat will elevate the soup, making it even more comforting, especially on a chilly evening.
Nutty Flavor: Toss in a tablespoon of tahini for a nutty depth. This addition complements the creaminess while introducing a delightful twist to the classic flavors.
Bouillon Boost: For an umami-packed experience, replace water with vegetable broth. It enhances the overall flavor, much like the savory notes found in my Brown Sugar Honey glazed carrots!
Zesty Lemon: Squeeze in a bit of lemon juice just before serving for a refreshing zing. The acidity brightens up the flavors and adds a lovely contrast to the creamy soup.
Creamy Coconut: Replace cashew cream with coconut milk for a tropical vibe. This twist results in a rich and creamy soup with a hint of sweetness, perfect for those who enjoy a bit of flair in their recipes!
With these variations, you can turn your comforting carrot potato soup into a personalized masterpiece every time you make it. Experiment and find your favorite combination!
Make Ahead Options
These creamy vegan carrot potato soup is ideal for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time on busy weekdays! You can chop the carrots and potatoes up to 3 days in advance, storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to preserve their freshness. Additionally, the cashew cream can be prepared 24 hours ahead for a rich texture; simply refrigerate it until you’re ready to finish the soup. When the time comes to serve, just sauté your onions and celery as instructed, add your prepped veggies and water, and simmer until tender. This way, you’ll enjoy a comforting dish that’s just as delicious with minimal effort!
Expert Tips for Carrot Potato Soup
Smooth Cashew Cream: Ensure cashews are blended until completely smooth for the best creamy texture in your carrot potato soup.
Roasting Vegetables: For an extra layer of flavor, consider roasting your carrots and potatoes before adding them to the soup.
Watch the Simmer: Keep an eye on the soup as it simmers to prevent sticking or burning, especially if you’re using higher heat settings.
Flavor Boost: Enhance the flavor profile by incorporating herbs like thyme or rosemary; this will elevate your creamy carrot potato soup to new heights.
Adjust Thickness: If you prefer a thicker soup, reduce the amount of water; for a thinner texture, simply add more water during cooking.
Storage Tips for Carrot Potato Soup
Fridge: Store leftover carrot potato soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Allow the soup to cool to room temperature before sealing to maintain freshness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the carrot potato soup in a sturdy container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Be sure to leave some space for expansion.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen, then reheat gently on the stove over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
Airtight Guidance: Use a tight-sealing lid or plastic wrap to avoid freezer burn, ensuring your creamy carrot potato soup retains its delightful flavors.
What to Serve with Creamy Vegan Carrot Potato Soup
Warm up your dinner table with pairing ideas that elevate your creamy vegan carrot potato soup into a complete meal.
Crusty Bread: Perfect for dipping, fresh bread complements the soup’s velvety texture and adds a satisfying crunch.
Simple Green Salad: A refreshing side salad balances the creamy richness of the soup with vibrant flavors and crisp textures.
Garlic Toast: Crispy garlic toast brings an aromatic crunch that’s ideal for scooping up every delightful spoonful.
Roasted Vegetables: A medley of roasted seasonal vegetables enhances the meal’s comforting vibe and brings in extra healthy goodness.
Herb-Infused Rice: Fluffy rice seasoned with herbs offers a delightful contrast to the soup’s creamy consistency, making each bite more fulfilling.
Apple Crisp: For dessert, the sweet-tart flavors of a homemade apple crisp provide a comforting finish after your savory soup.
These pairings will not only bring your creamy vegan carrot potato soup to life but also create a memorable meal experience!
Carrot Potato Soup Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best carrots and potatoes for the soup?
Absolutely! Look for firm carrots that have a vibrant color without dark spots or blemishes. For potatoes, choose starchy varieties like Russets for a creamier texture. Make sure they are free from green spots or sprouting, as these can affect flavor.
How should I store leftover carrot potato soup?
Very good question! To store in the fridge, place your cooled soup in an airtight container, and it will be good for up to 4 days. Make sure the lid is sealed tightly to keep out excess air.
Can I freeze carrot potato soup? How do I do it?
Definitely! You can freeze this carrot potato soup for up to 3 months. Pour the cool soup into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving about an inch of space at the top for expansion. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently on the stove over low heat.
What if my soup turns out too thick?
No worries at all! If you find your soup is too thick, simply add a splash of water or vegetable broth and stir until reaching your desired consistency. You can also blend in more cashew cream if you like it creamier, so adjust until it’s just right!
Is this soup suitable for people with nut allergies?
Great consideration! If you or someone you’re serving has nut allergies, you can either omit the cashew cream or substitute it with heavy cream or a soy-based cream for a non-vegan option. Just make sure to adjust the flavor if you alter any key ingredients.
Can I add more vegetables to the soup?
Absolutely! Feel free to get creative with your soup. Spinach, kale, or even diced bell peppers can be added for a nutrient boost. If you’re using sturdier vegetables, just make sure to adjust the cooking time so everything is tender by the end!
Creamy Carrot Potato Soup That Will Warm Your Soul
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Soak 1 cup of cashews in water for at least 2 hours, or boil and let sit for 10 minutes. Drain and blend with 1 to 1.5 cups of fresh water until smooth.
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and celery, and sauté for 5-7 minutes until soft.
- Add chopped carrots and diced potatoes to the pot. Stir in with sautéed vegetables and pour in 4 cups of water and bouillon cubes. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 20 minutes.
- Blend the soup directly in the pot with an immersion blender until smooth, or transfer batches to a standard blender. Return to low heat.
- Stir in the prepared cashew cream, mix thoroughly, and heat through for 5 minutes on low. Season with salt and pepper to taste.