Spicy Miso Carrot Soup

If you’re looking for a cozy dish that warms the soul and tantalizes your taste buds, then you’re in for a treat with this Spicy Miso Carrot Soup. This recipe has become a cherished favorite in my household, especially during chilly evenings or when I need a comforting bowl of goodness. The sweetness of the carrots blends beautifully with the umami depth of miso, creating a delightful harmony that’s just irresistible.

Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, this soup not only nourishes but also brings everyone together around the table. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to make it again and again!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This soup comes together in about an hour, making it perfect for those nights when time is tight.
• Family-Friendly: Kids will love the vibrant color and delicious flavor, plus it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can easily prepare this soup in advance and reheat it whenever hunger strikes.
• Flavorful Depth: The combination of miso and spicy ginger oil elevates this soup from simple to spectacular.
• Healthy Comfort Food: Packed with nutrients from fresh vegetables, it’s both wholesome and satisfying.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to create this delightful Spicy Miso Carrot Soup. You’ll find everything you need right at your local grocery store!

For the Soup

• 1 kg (35¼ oz) carrots, peeled and sliced (about 7.8 cups / 2 lb)
• 1 medium onion, cut into eighths
• 4 cloves garlic, smashed
• 3 cm fresh ginger, thinly sliced
• 1 red chilli, roughly chopped
• 3 tbsp miso paste
• 1.6 L vegetable stock
• Vegetable oil for roasting
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Topping

• 1½ cm fresh ginger, cut into matchsticks
• 1 red chilli, thinly sliced
• 4 tbsp vegetable oil
• 2 tbsp mixed seeds
• 2 spring onions, sliced
• Reserved carrot peels, roasted

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Add Some Protein: Toss in some cooked chickpeas or lentils for an extra protein boost.
• Make It Creamy: Stir in some coconut milk right before serving for a richer texture.
• Change Up the Heat: If you prefer less spice, use a milder pepper instead of red chilli.
• Add More Greens: Throw in some spinach or kale at the end of cooking for added nutrition.

How to Make Spicy Miso Carrot Soup

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Veggies

Start by heating your oven to 200°C / 180°C fan. While it’s warming up, peel and slice those vibrant carrots into 1cm pieces. Don’t forget to save those peels! Cut your onion into eighths, smash the garlic cloves gently with the flat side of a knife, thinly slice the ginger, and roughly chop the red chilli.

Step 2: Roast the Carrot Peels

In a small roasting tin, place your reserved carrot peels. Season them generously with salt and pepper, drizzle with vegetable oil, and toss them well. Roast these for about 10 minutes until they’re crisp—this adds such a lovely crunch as a topping later!

Step 3: Roast the Vegetables

In a large roasting tin, combine your sliced carrots, onion, garlic, ginger, and chopped chilli. Again season with salt and pepper along with a drizzle of vegetable oil. Toss everything together so they’re all coated nicely! Roast for about 35 minutes until the carrots are tender; this step develops incredible flavors.

Step 4: Prepare Your Chilli Ginger Oil

While your veggies roast away happily in the oven, slice that additional ginger into small matchsticks and thinly slice another red chilli. In a small saucepan, heat up some vegetable oil over low heat. Add in your ginger and chilli mix; cook for about one minute until fragrant. Toss in mixed seeds and cook for another minute before seasoning with salt and pepper to taste—set aside to cool.

Step 5: Blend It All Together

Once your roasted veggies are ready (the smell will be divine!), transfer them into a blender. Add in your miso paste along with vegetable stock; blend until smooth! This is where magic happens as all those flavors come together beautifully.

Step 6: Simmer Your Soup

Pour that luscious blended soup back into a saucepan and simmer over medium heat for about five minutes. Give it a taste test—adjust salt as needed because we all have different preferences!

Step 7: Serve Up Warm Bowls

Now it’s time to indulge! Divide your soup between bowls. Top each bowl generously with crispy carrot peels from earlier and slices of spring onions. Finish off each bowl with a spoonful or two of that flavorful chilli ginger oil you made earlier.

Enjoy every warm spoonful of this Spicy Miso Carrot Soup—it’s sure to become one of your go-to recipes!

Pro Tips for Making Spicy Miso Carrot Soup

Making the perfect Spicy Miso Carrot Soup is all about enhancing those beautiful flavors! Here are some tips to ensure your soup turns out silky smooth and delicious each time.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh carrots, ginger, and chillies will provide the best flavor and aroma, making your soup vibrant and tasty.

• Adjust spice levels: If you prefer a milder soup, reduce the amount of red chilli or remove the seeds. Conversely, for more heat, feel free to add an extra chilli or use a spicier variety.

• Blend thoroughly: To achieve that silky texture, blend the soup until completely smooth. This helps to incorporate all flavors evenly and makes each spoonful a delight.

• Taste as you go: Remember to taste your soup before serving and adjust the salt or miso paste based on your preference. Each batch can have slightly different needs!

• Make it ahead: This soup keeps well in the fridge for up to three days. You can also freeze it in portions for easy meals later on!

How to Serve Spicy Miso Carrot Soup

Serving your Spicy Miso Carrot Soup can be just as fun as making it! With a few thoughtful touches, you can transform this comforting dish into a memorable experience for yourself or guests.

Garnishes

• Sliced spring onions: Their fresh crunch adds a great contrast in texture while enhancing the flavor profile.
• Toasted sesame seeds: A sprinkle of these adds nuttiness that complements the miso beautifully.
• Fresh coriander leaves: For a burst of freshness, cilantro leaves can elevate your soup with their aromatic notes.

Side Dishes

• Crusty bread: A loaf of freshly baked bread is perfect for dipping into the creamy soup. Consider sourdough or multigrain for added flavor.
• Asian-style salad: A refreshing salad made with cucumber, carrot, and sesame dressing creates a bright balance against the richness of the soup.
• Rice paper rolls: Filled with fresh veggies and herbs, these light rolls pair wonderfully with the warm flavors of the soup.
• Grilled tofu skewers: Adding protein gives you a hearty meal; marinate tofu in soy sauce and grill until crispy for extra texture.

Now you’re ready to enjoy your delicious Spicy Miso Carrot Soup! Whether it’s a cozy night in or impressing friends at a dinner party, this recipe is sure to warm hearts and please palates alike. Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Spicy Miso Carrot Soup is a fantastic option for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious homemade soup anytime during the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the soup to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Pour cooled soup into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion.
• Label each container with the date and contents.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for optimal flavor.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat gently on the stove over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
• Adjust seasoning if necessary before serving.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Spicy Miso Carrot Soup.

Can I use other vegetables in Spicy Miso Carrot Soup?

Absolutely! While carrots are the star of this recipe, feel free to experiment with other vegetables like sweet potatoes or butternut squash for a different flavor profile.

What can I add to enhance the flavor of my Spicy Miso Carrot Soup?

For added depth, consider incorporating spices such as cumin or coriander. You can also garnish with fresh herbs like cilantro or basil to brighten up the flavors.

Is Spicy Miso Carrot Soup suitable for a vegan diet?

Yes! This recipe is entirely plant-based, making it perfect for anyone following a vegan lifestyle.

How spicy is the Spicy Miso Carrot Soup?

The heat level primarily depends on how much chili you add. Feel free to adjust according to your taste—less chili will create a milder soup, while more will give it a nice kick!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Spicy Miso Carrot Soup! It’s not just about nourishing your body; it’s about creating something delightful that warms the soul. Enjoy every sip and don’t hesitate to share your experience or any tweaks you make along the way. Happy cooking!