Comfort Winter Soups: Pureed Carrot-Apple
Warm, smooth, and easy to eat, this pureed carrot-apple soup is a gentle comfort for chilly days. It’s simple to make for one or two servings and uses pantry-friendly ingredients.
Making small, single-serve soups saves time and limits waste. You can cook everything in one pot, then blend for a soft, even texture that’s easy to eat.
The recipe is forgiving. You can swap the apple for pear, use vegetable broth, or thin the soup to a sip-able consistency if you prefer.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or light butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped (about 1/3 cup)
- 1 cup carrots, peeled and chopped (about 2 medium carrots)
Also needed: 1 small apple (peeled, cored, chopped), 1 tsp grated ginger (optional), 1 cup low-sodium broth, 2 tbsp plain yogurt or canned coconut milk (optional), salt and pepper to taste, and water to thin if needed.
Step-by-Step Recipe
- Heat the oil or butter in a small saucepan over medium heat and sauté the chopped onion with a pinch of salt until very soft, about 6–8 minutes.
- Add the chopped carrots and apple, stir 1–2 minutes, add grated ginger if using, pour in the broth, bring to a gentle simmer, cover and cook until carrots are fork-tender, about 12–15 minutes.
- Let cool briefly, then puree with an immersion blender or in a countertop blender until silky. Return to low heat, stir in yogurt or coconut milk if using, season with salt and pepper, thin with water or broth to desired consistency, and serve warm.
Tips and Easy Variations
Texture & Technique
- For an extra-smooth texture, press the blended soup through a fine-mesh sieve.
- Use an immersion blender for better control and to keep everything in one pot.
- If using a countertop blender, vent the lid and cover with a towel to avoid splashes.
For Gentle Digestion
- Peel all vegetables and choose low-fat broth for a lighter soup.
- Add a small amount of grated ginger to soothe the stomach.
- Reduce salt if advised by your doctor and rely on mild herbs like thyme or a lemon squeeze.
Flavor Variations
- Swap apple for pear or add a small cooked potato for extra body.
- Use roasted carrots for a deeper, caramelized flavor.
- Stir in silken tofu or pureed white beans for added protein without changing texture.
Quick notes
- Blend until silky and taste before adding more salt.
- Thin with warm broth or water to a sip-able consistency.
- Store in single portions for easy reheating and gentle meals.
Storage and Leftovers
Fridge
Cool to room temperature and store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove, stirring and adding a little water or broth if too thick.
Freezer
Freeze in single portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to preserve smooth texture.
Reheating
Reheat slowly over low heat, stirring frequently. Avoid boiling to keep the texture silky; add a splash of broth if needed.
Conclusion
Try this pureed carrot-apple bowl for a simple, gentle meal that feels like a warm hug. It’s a small-portion, easy-to-digest option that fits well into quiet winter evenings.
Comfort winter soups like this are quick to make, mild on the stomach, and kind on clean-up—perfect when you want something soothing and low-effort.
FAQ
Can I make this without dairy?▶
Yes. Use canned coconut milk or leave out the yogurt. The soup will still be creamy once blended well.
How do I make the soup extra-smooth?▶
Blend longer and press the soup through a fine-mesh sieve for an ultra-silky texture. An immersion blender offers good control for a smooth result.
