Cream of Vegetable Soup - A Velvety Symphony of Flavors

Introduction: 

Cream of Vegetable Soup is a comforting and luxurious dish that combines the goodness of assorted vegetables with the richness of a velvety cream base. In this article, we'll guide you through a delightful recipe to create a luscious Cream of Vegetable Soup that's perfect for cozy evenings or as an elegant starter for a special meal. Let's dive into the creamy goodness of this heartwarming soup.

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Ingredients:

For the Vegetable Base:

2 tablespoons butter or olive oil

1 cup onions, finely chopped

1/2 cup celery, finely chopped

1/2 cup carrots, finely diced

1/2 cup leeks, thinly sliced (optional)

1/2 cup potatoes, peeled and diced

1/2 cup cauliflower florets

4 cups vegetable broth

1 bay leaf

Salt and pepper to taste

For the Creamy Base:

2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

2 cups milk (whole or 2%)

1 cup heavy cream

1/2 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)

Salt and white pepper to taste

For Garnish:

Fresh chives or parsley, chopped

Croutons or a drizzle of olive oil (optional)

Instructions:

Prepare the Vegetable Base:

In a large pot, melt butter or heat olive oil over medium heat.

Add chopped onions, celery, carrots, and leeks (if using). Sauté until the vegetables are soft and onions are translucent.

Add Potatoes and Cauliflower:

Incorporate diced potatoes and cauliflower florets into the pot. Stir to combine.

Pour in vegetable broth, add a bay leaf, and season with salt and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer.

Simmer the Vegetable Base:

Let the vegetable base simmer for about 15-20 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.

Prepare the Creamy Base:

In a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.

Stir in all-purpose flour to create a roux. Cook for 1-2 minutes until it forms a paste.

Gradually whisk in milk to avoid lumps. Continue to whisk until the mixture thickens.

Add heavy cream, nutmeg (if using), salt, and white pepper. Continue to whisk until the mixture is smooth and creamy.

Combine Vegetable Base and Creamy Base:

Remove the bay leaf from the vegetable base.

Slowly pour the creamy mixture into the pot with the vegetable base, stirring continuously to combine.

Simmer and Adjust Seasoning:

Let the soup simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

Garnish and Serve:

Ladle the creamy vegetable soup into bowls.

Garnish with chopped fresh chives or parsley.

Optionally, add croutons or a drizzle of olive oil for an extra touch.

Serve Warm:

Serve the Cream of Vegetable Soup warm, savoring the velvety texture and rich flavors.

Conclusion: 

Cream of Vegetable Soup is a delightful blend of wholesome vegetables and creamy goodness, creating a bowl of comfort that is both elegant and satisfying. Enjoy the warmth and flavor of this creamy soup, making it a standout addition to your repertoire of heartwarming recipes.