Description of this recipe
Boxing Day Soup is a delightful and hearty dish perfect for utilizing leftover vegetables from your festive feasts. This vibrant soup combines the comforting flavors of roasted vegetables, a hint of curry, and a creamy finish that will warm your heart and soul. It’s not just a way to avoid food waste; it’s a delicious meal that embodies the essence of winter comfort food.
Why you will love this recipe
This Boxing Day Soup is not only a fantastic way to repurpose your holiday leftovers but also a versatile dish that can be tailored to your taste preferences. The combination of spices and vegetables creates a rich and flavorful broth, while the addition of yogurt or crème fraîche provides a luscious creaminess. Whether you’re a vegetarian or a meat lover, this soup can be easily adapted to suit your dietary needs. Plus, it’s simple to make, requires minimal effort, and is perfect for meal prep!
Introduction
After the holiday festivities, many of us find ourselves with an abundance of leftover vegetables. Instead of letting them languish in the fridge, why not transform them into a comforting and nourishing soup? Boxing Day Soup is the perfect solution. With its warming spices and creamy texture, it’s a dish that celebrates the flavors of the season while reducing food waste. This recipe is not only easy to follow but also allows for creativity in the kitchen. So, gather your leftover vegetables and let’s get cooking!
Ingredients:
- 1 tbsp sunflower oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 celery sticks, chopped
- 2 medium potatoes, about 350g/12oz total weight, peeled and cut into small chunks
- 1 tbsp curry paste
- 1.2l vegetable stock, made from a stock cube
- 550g leftover roasted or boiled vegetables, such as Brussels sprouts, carrots, parsnips, and squash, roughly chopped
- Natural yogurt or crème fraîche, to serve
Tip:
Make it meaty: Meat eaters can use turkey stock if they have it.
Preparation:
Step 1: In a large saucepan, heat the sunflower oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until it turns golden and translucent.
Step 2: Add the chopped celery to the pan and continue to sauté for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking.
Step 3: Next, incorporate the diced potatoes into the saucepan. Sauté for a further 1-2 minutes, stirring often to prevent sticking and to allow the flavors to meld.
Step 4: Stir in the curry paste, allowing it to cook for about a minute until fragrant. This step is crucial as it helps to release the essential oils and flavors from the spices.
Step 5: Pour in the vegetable stock, bringing the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat, cover the saucepan, and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.
Step 6: After the potatoes are cooked, add the leftover roasted or boiled vegetables to the pan. Allow them to warm through for a few minutes.
Step 7: Using a food processor or blender, carefully pour the soup mixture and blitz until smooth. If you prefer a thinner consistency, add hot water or additional stock to your liking (we recommend adding about 300ml). Taste for seasoning and adjust as necessary.
Step 8: Serve the soup in bowls, garnished with a generous swirl of natural yogurt or crème fraîche for added richness.
COOKING Rating:
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5) – This recipe is straightforward and perfect for cooks of all skill levels, making it an ideal choice for a cozy winter meal.
Serving Suggestions:
Boxing Day Soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or homemade rolls. For an added touch, consider serving it alongside a fresh salad or a cheese platter to balance the meal.
Tips:
- For a spicier kick, add more curry paste or a pinch of chili flakes.
- Experiment with different herbs, such as cilantro or parsley, for a fresh garnish.
- If you have any leftover meat, such as turkey or chicken, feel free to add it to the soup for extra protein and flavor.
- This soup freezes excellently, so consider making a double batch to enjoy later.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 180
- Protein: 4g
- Sodium: 600mg
Conclusion
Boxing Day Soup is a wonderful way to turn your holiday leftovers into a deliciously satisfying meal. With its rich flavors and creamy texture, this soup is sure to become a post-holiday favorite in your household. Not only does it help reduce food waste, but it also warms you up during the chilly winter months. Give this recipe a try, and you’ll find yourself looking forward to the day after Christmas just to enjoy this delightful soup!
Questions and Answers about this recipe:
- Can I use fresh vegetables instead of leftover ones?
Absolutely! You can use fresh vegetables such as carrots, potatoes, and any seasonal produce you have on hand. Just be sure to cook them until tender before blending. - Is this soup suitable for freezing?
Yes, Boxing Day Soup freezes very well. Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. - Can I make this soup vegan?
Yes, this recipe is already vegan-friendly as long as you use vegetable stock and skip the yogurt or crème fraîche, or substitute them with a plant-based alternative. - What can I serve with Boxing Day Soup?
This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, grilled cheese sandwiches, or a fresh salad. You can also serve it as a starter before a hearty main course. - How can I make this soup spicier?
To add more heat, you can increase the amount of curry paste, add red pepper flakes, or even a dash of hot sauce to the soup before blending. Adjust according to your spice preference!
