Creamy Roasted Parsnip Soup

This Creamy Roasted Parsnip Soup is a comforting and velvety dish perfect for chilly days. The roasting process brings out the natural sweetness and nutty flavor of the parsnips, enhancing the soup’s rich and earthy taste. A hint of garlic and thyme adds depth, while the cream provides a smooth and luxurious texture. This soup is easy to make and offers a delicious way to enjoy the often-underappreciated parsnip. Serve it as a starter or a light main course with a crusty bread on the side.

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ pounds parsnips, peeled and chopped
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or ½ teaspoon dried thyme)
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons butter
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roast the Parsnips: Place the chopped parsnips on a baking sheet. Drizzle with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Roast for about 25-30 minutes or until they are tender and golden brown, turning once halfway through.
3. Sauté the Onions and Garlic: In a large pot, heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until it becomes translucent. Add the minced garlic and thyme, and cook for another minute.
4. Combine Ingredients: Add the roasted parsnips to the pot. Pour in the vegetable broth, and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for about 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Blend the Soup: Using an immersion blender, puree the soup until it is smooth and creamy. Alternatively, transfer the soup in batches to a blender and blend until smooth, then return it to the pot.
6. Add Cream: Stir in the heavy cream and heat the soup gently over low heat. Adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if necessary.
7. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with chopped fresh parsley. Enjoy with a side of crusty bread.

This delicious soup is perfect for meal prep as it stores well in the refrigerator for a few days, and its flavors deepen over time.