If you’re craving a cozy, soul-warming dish that celebrates the natural goodness of hearty vegetables, you absolutely must try this Country Harvest Root Vegetable Soup Recipe. This vibrant soup is a rustic blend of earthy root veggies, subtle spices, and creamy indulgence, making it a perfect comfort food for chilly days or anytime you want a nutritious and flavorful meal. Rich in color, texture, and layered with savory notes, this recipe transforms simple ingredients into a luscious bowl of pure delight.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Country Harvest Root Vegetable Soup Recipe is all about simplicity and balance. Each ingredient plays a crucial role—from the earthy potatoes to the aromatic curry powder—creating a medley of flavors and textures that make the soup truly memorable.
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil: Provides a smooth base and healthy fat for sautéing your veggies.
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter: Adds richness and depth, creating a silky texture.
- 1 onion, chopped into large dice: Brings sweetness and body to the soup as it softens.
- 3 garlic cloves, chopped: Offers an aromatic punch that enhances the overall flavor.
- 1 tbsp curry powder: Infuses a warm, complex spice blend—feel free to use your favorite brand.
- 1 tsp dried thyme leaves: Adds subtle herbal notes that elevate the earthy vegetables.
- 1 1/2 litre (6 cups) water: The perfect amount to allow the veggies to simmer gently and become tender.
- 2 tsp cooking salt/kosher salt: Balances and highlights all the flavors—adjust for table salt.
- 1/2 tsp black pepper: Adds a hint of heat and complexity.
- 1/2 cup thickened cream: Creates a luxuriously creamy finish that makes the soup feel indulgent.
- 1 large potato, peeled and cubed: Gives body and smoothness to the soup’s texture.
- 1 medium sweet potato, peeled and cubed: Introduces gentle sweetness and vibrant orange color.
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced: Adds natural sweetness and a subtle earthiness.
- 1 small/medium parsnip, peeled and sliced: Brings delicate spice and sweetness.
- 1 small celeriac, peeled and cubed: A unique, slightly nutty flavor that deepens the soup.
- Warm crusty bread: Essential for scooping and savoring every drop of this glorious soup.
- Parsley, finely chopped: A fresh garnish that lifts the finished dish.
- Pinch extra curry powder: For adding a little finishing flair.
- Pinch black pepper: To enhance seasoning before serving.
How to Make Country Harvest Root Vegetable Soup Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Start by heating your olive oil and butter in a heavy-based pot over medium-high heat. When the butter melts and starts shimmering, add the chopped onion and garlic. Let them cook gently for about two minutes until the onions soften and release their natural sweetness. This step is crucial for building the flavor foundation of your soup.
Step 2: Add the Root Vegetables and Spices
Next, toss in all your prepared root vegetables along with the dried thyme and curry powder. Stir everything for about three minutes so the veggies start to soften and soak up the fragrant spices. You’ll notice the savory aroma intensify, making your kitchen smell absolutely inviting.
Step 3: Simmer Your Soup to Perfection
Turn the heat up to high and pour in the water, followed by salt and pepper. Give everything a good stir, then wait for the mixture to come to a simmer. Once bubbling, turn the heat down to medium-high and allow it to simmer rapidly for 15 minutes—uncovered. During this time, the vegetables will become tender and infused with all those comforting flavors.
Step 4: Add the Cream
When the veggies are soft, stir in the thickened cream and let the soup simmer for one more minute. This final touch brings a velvety richness that ties all the ingredients together beautifully.
Step 5: Blitz Until Smooth
Remove your pot from the heat, then use a stick blender to puree the soup until you achieve a silky, smooth texture. Taste and adjust the seasoning with extra salt, pepper, or cream as you please. If it feels too thick, a splash of water will loosen the consistency perfectly.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Pour your finished Country Harvest Root Vegetable Soup into warm bowls. Drizzle on some extra cream, sprinkle with a pinch of curry powder, finely chopped parsley, and a dash of black pepper for that final flourish. Don’t forget the warm crusty bread for dipping—this soup and bread combo is a match made in heaven!
How to Serve Country Harvest Root Vegetable Soup Recipe
Garnishes
To take your soup to the next level, go all out with garnishes like a swirl of cream for indulgence, a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley for brightness, and a little extra curry powder to highlight the curry’s warmth. A crack of black pepper adds just the right amount of kick to the finished bowl.
Side Dishes
While the soup itself is satisfying, pairing it with warm crusty bread is essential—whether it’s a rustic baguette or a crusty sourdough. You can also serve it alongside a crisp green salad to balance the creamy texture of the soup with some refreshing crunch.
Creative Ways to Present
For a charming presentation, serve the soup in individual rustic bowls topped with a parsley sprig. Adding a small ramekin of extra cream or chili flakes on the side invites guests to customize their experience. You might also layer in a dollop of crème fraîche or a few toasted seeds for texture contrast.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This Country Harvest Root Vegetable Soup Recipe stores beautifully in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just transfer it to an airtight container and keep it chilled. The flavors tend to deepen overnight, making leftovers even more delicious.
Freezing
If you want to prepare in advance, this soup freezes wonderfully. Cool it completely before pouring it into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty bags. It will keep well for up to three months. Just remember to leave some room at the top to allow for expansion.
Reheating
When ready to enjoy your saved soup, thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen. Reheat gently over low to medium heat, stirring frequently to keep the texture smooth and prevent scorching. If the soup thickens too much, add a splash of water or cream to bring it back to the perfect consistency.
FAQs
Can I use other root vegetables for this Country Harvest Root Vegetable Soup Recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap or add parsnips, turnips, rutabagas, or even a bit of beetroot to give the soup your personal twist. Just be mindful of cooking times so all veggies soften evenly.
Is this soup suitable for a vegetarian or vegan diet?
The recipe as written includes butter and cream, so it’s vegetarian but not vegan. For a vegan version, substitute the butter with olive oil and use coconut cream or a plant-based cream alternative to keep the rich texture.
How spicy is the curry powder in the soup?
The curry powder adds warm, aromatic spices without much heat. If you prefer a milder soup, reduce the amount slightly or choose a curry powder blend labeled as mild. For a spicier kick, add a pinch of chili flakes or cayenne pepper.
Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes! Begin by sautéing the onions and garlic on the stovetop as directed, then transfer everything to a slow cooker with the vegetables, spices, and water. Cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours until vegetables are tender. Add cream and blend at the end as usual.
What is the best way to thicken this soup if it’s too watery?
If after blending, your soup feels too thin, try simmering it a bit longer uncovered to reduce excess liquid. Alternatively, add a handful of extra potatoes or a small amount of instant potato flakes to thicken quickly without altering flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Country Harvest Root Vegetable Soup Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug after a busy day. Its beautiful balance of simple, wholesome ingredients with vibrant spices turns humble vegetables into something truly special. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a kitchen novice, this soup is sure to become a favorite that you’ll want to make again and again. So grab your pot, gather your root veggies, and dive into this delicious, comforting bowl of goodness!
Print
Country Harvest Root Vegetable Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 5 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Country-style, Western
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A comforting and hearty Country Harvest Root Vegetable Soup, featuring a blend of potatoes, sweet potatoes, carrots, parsnip, and celeriac, infused with curry and thyme. This creamy soup is perfectly seasoned and pureed to a smooth texture, ideal for a cozy meal served with warm crusty bread and garnished with parsley and a touch of cream.
Ingredients
Fats and Oils
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tbsp (15g) unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup thickened cream (heavy cream, plus extra for garnish)
Vegetables
- 1 onion, chopped into large dice
- 3 garlic cloves, chopped
- 1 large potato (~300g/10oz), peeled, cut into 2.5cm (1″) cubes
- 1 medium sweet potato (350g/12oz), peeled, cut into 2.5cm (1″) cubes
- 2 medium carrots, peeled, cut into 1.5cm (0.5″) pieces
- 1 small/medium parsnip (150g/5oz), peeled, cut into 1.5cm (0.5″) pieces
- 1 small celeriac (600g/1.2 lb), peeled, cut into 1.5cm (0.5″) pieces (~2 heaped cups)
Spices and Seasonings
- 1 tbsp curry powder
- 1 tsp dried thyme leaves
- 2 tsp cooking salt/kosher salt (halve if using table salt)
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- Pinch extra curry powder (for garnish)
- Pinch black pepper (for garnish)
Liquids
- 1 1/2 litre (6 cups) water
To Serve
- Warm crusty bread
- Parsley, finely chopped
Instructions
- Sauté onion and garlic: Heat the olive oil and butter in a large heavy-based pot over medium-high heat. Once the butter is melted, add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking for 2 minutes until the onion softens and becomes translucent.
- Add root vegetables and spices: Stir in the potato, sweet potato, carrots, parsnip, celeriac, dried thyme, and curry powder. Cook for 3 minutes, stirring regularly, until the vegetables begin to soften slightly on the outside.
- Simmer the soup: Increase the heat to high and add the water, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine and bring to a rapid simmer. Reduce the heat to medium-high and let it simmer uncovered for 15 minutes, or until all the vegetables are very tender when pierced with a knife.
- Add cream and simmer briefly: Stir in the thickened cream and continue simmering for 1 more minute to blend the flavors.
- Blend until smooth: Remove the pot from the heat. Using a stick blender, carefully blitz the soup until completely smooth and creamy. Adjust consistency with additional water if desired, and season with extra salt, pepper, or cream to taste.
- Serve and garnish: Ladle the soup into bowls. Drizzle with a little extra cream, sprinkle with a pinch of curry powder, freshly ground black pepper, and chopped parsley. Serve alongside warm crusty bread for dipping.
Notes
- Note 1: Use your favorite brand of curry powder; the flavor can vary, so adjust seasoning accordingly.
- Note 2: Dried thyme adds an earthy aroma complementing the root vegetables; fresh thyme can be used as an alternative.
- Note 3: For a richer soup, use heavy cream; for a lighter option, use regular thickened cream.
- Note 5: When blitzing hot soup with a stick blender, hold the blender firmly and blend carefully to avoid splashes.
