Indulge in Winter Comfort with this Creamy Pear Parsnip Soup. Bursting with flavor and rich in nutrients. This soul-soothing dish is a delightful fusion of sweet pears, hearty parsnips, and creamy sour cream. Let’s dive into the delicious details of this perfect winter recipe.
As an alternative to the heavy cream typically found in soups, Creamy Pear Parsnip Soup incorporates sour cream. This adds a creamy texture. Additionally, it provides a tang to balance the natural sweetness of the pears. The result is a harmonious flavor profile that is both indulgent and nuanced.
The Power of Parsnips:
Parsnips are often overshadowed by more popular root vegetables. However, they play a pivotal role in this soup. These humble veggies provide not only heft but also an array of vitamins and minerals. Consequently, this makes them a nutritious addition to any meal. Parsnips are rich in fiber, vitamin C, and potassium. As a result, they offer a hearty dose of goodness with every spoonful.
Let’s explore the versatility of pears in this recipe. Use any variety of ripe pears for this recipe. They impart distinctive sweetness and subtle floral notes to the soup.
How it’s done:
The preparation of Creamy Pear Parsnip Soup begins with shallots gently sautéed in olive oil, infusing the base with a delicate aroma. Next, tender pieces of pear and parsnip join the mix, their flavors mingling and melding together in the pan.
A splash of white wine deglazes the pan. This adds depth and complexity to the dish. Vegetable stock and pear juice are then poured in, allowing the ingredients to simmer and meld into a fragrant broth.
Once the vegetables are tender, the mixture is carefully pureed using a hand blender. This transforms it into a velvety smooth soup that is as luxurious as it is comforting. Finally, stir in the sour cream for creamy richness and tang.
For a finishing touch, thinly sliced fresh pear is caramelized in melted powdered sugar. As a result, this pretty garnish adds a hint of sweetness and elegance to each serving of soup.
Creamy Pear Parsnip Soup is a delightful winter indulgence that combines the comfort and warmth of hearty vegetables with the irresistible sweetness of ripe pears. Whether enjoyed as a starter or a main course, this soup is sure to delight your taste buds and warm your soul on even the chilliest of days. Embrace the cozy warmth of winter with a tantalizing bowl.
Creamy Pear Parsnip Soup
Ingredients
For the soup:
- 2 shallots
- 1.5 lbs ripe pears
- 1.75 lbs parsnips
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1/2 cup white wine
- 1 cup pear juice
- 3 cups vegetable stock
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- kosher salt & freshly ground pepper
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives
For the caramelized pears:
- 1 small pear
- 1-2 tbsp powdered sugar
Instructions
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Peel & dice the shallots.
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Peel and core the pears. Cut into small pieces.
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Peel and slice parsnips.
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Heat oil in a large pot. Add the shallots and sauté until starting to brown.
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Add the pears and parsnips and cook, stirring frequently until soft.
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Deglaze the pot with white wine and bring to a boil.
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Add the stock and the pear juice.
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Bring to a boil. Lower the heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
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Puree with a hand blender.
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Stir in the sour cream.
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Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Cut the pear into thin slices.
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Melt the powdered sugar in a non-stick pan over medium heat.
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Add pear wedges and caramelize for about 1 minute.
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Pour the soup into bowls and top each with a few wedges of caramelized pear.
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Sprinkle chives over the top and serve.
Like this Creamy Pear Parsnip Soup. Also, check out some of these other recipes:
CHICKEN BREAST WITH GINGER ORANGE PARSNIPS
WINTER VEGETABLE STRUDEL
PARSNIP, CARROT, LEEK, HORSERADISH CREAM CASSEROLE
