Looking for a soup that’s vibrant, fresh, and full of bold flavors? You’ve found it with Zesty Carrot and Ginger Soup with Miso Twist! This soup has it all—the natural sweetness of carrots, the fiery kick of fresh ginger, and the deep umami punch of miso. Each spoonful is a burst of brightness and warmth, perfect for cozy nights or as a rejuvenating lunch. The miso adds a surprising depth of flavor that balances out the sweetness of the carrots, while the ginger gives it a refreshing, slightly spicy edge. You won’t believe how easy it is to whip up, and trust me, you’ll be hooked after the first taste!
Why You’ll Love Zesty Carrot and Ginger Soup with Miso Twist
Here’s why this soup is about to become your new favorite:
- Bright & Flavorful: The combination of carrots and ginger creates a vibrant, zesty base, while the miso adds a savory richness that takes the soup to the next level. It’s a flavor explosion in every bite!
- Comforting Yet Light: Even though this soup is light and packed with veggies, it has a wonderfully comforting feel. It’s perfect when you want something satisfying but not too heavy.
- Nutrient-Packed: With the fresh carrots, ginger, and miso, this soup is full of vitamins and minerals. Plus, ginger and miso both have gut-healing properties, making this soup a nourishing choice for any day.
- Quick & Easy: You can make this delicious soup in under 30 minutes, making it the perfect weeknight meal when you’re craving something flavorful and healthy.
- Customizable: You can adjust the heat with more or less ginger, or even add a little chili for extra spice. Plus, if you want a creamier texture, simply blend in some coconut milk or heavy cream.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this zesty soup:
- Carrots: The main ingredient, giving the soup its natural sweetness and vibrant color.
- Fresh Ginger: Adds a zesty, spicy kick that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the carrots.
- Miso Paste (white or yellow): Brings a savory, umami depth that balances the flavors and adds richness.
- Vegetable Broth: The base for the soup, making it light yet flavorful. You can use chicken broth for a heartier option.
- Garlic: A few cloves of garlic add a savory aroma that complements the ginger and miso.
- Olive Oil: For sautéing the veggies and adding richness.
- Lemon Juice: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end brightens the flavors and adds a refreshing touch.
- Salt & Pepper: To taste, enhancing all the flavors.
(Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)
Instructions
Let’s make this delicious, zesty soup!
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and cook for 3-4 minutes, until softened. Then, add the garlic and fresh ginger and sauté for another 1-2 minutes, letting the aromas fill the kitchen.
Step 2: Cook the Carrots
Add the chopped carrots to the pot and stir for a few minutes to mix with the garlic and ginger. This step helps the carrots absorb all those aromatic flavors.
Step 3: Add the Broth & Miso
Pour in the vegetable broth and stir in the miso paste until it’s fully dissolved. Bring the soup to a simmer and let it cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the carrots are tender and easily pierced with a fork.
Step 4: Blend the Soup
Once the carrots are soft, remove the pot from heat. Use an immersion blender directly in the pot to blend the soup until it’s smooth and creamy. If you don’t have an immersion blender, carefully transfer the soup in batches to a regular blender. Be cautious of the hot liquid!
Step 5: Add Lemon & Season
Once blended, return the soup to the pot (if needed) and stir in the lemon juice. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with fresh herbs or a dollop of yogurt (optional), and enjoy your zesty, warming bowl of goodness!
Nutrition Facts
Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 180
Total Fat: 8g
Sodium: 760mg
Total Carbohydrates: 27g
Dietary Fiber: 6g
Sugars: 12g
Protein: 4g
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
How to Serve Zesty Carrot and Ginger Soup with Miso Twist
This soup pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides to round out your meal:
- Crusty Bread: Serve with a warm, crusty baguette or sourdough to dip into the soup. The bread will soak up all the delicious flavors.
- Grilled Cheese: You can’t go wrong with a classic grilled cheese sandwich on the side. The creamy cheese and crispy bread are perfect against the zesty soup.
- Salads: A light, tangy salad with arugula, fresh greens, and a lemon vinaigrette will complement the soup’s flavors and add a refreshing contrast.
Additional Tips
- Make it Creamy: For an extra creamy texture, stir in some coconut milk or heavy cream after blending the soup.
- Adjust the Spice Level: If you prefer a spicier soup, add extra ginger or toss in some chili flakes while cooking.
- Vegan Option: To keep the soup fully vegan, be sure to use vegetable broth and coconut milk instead of any dairy products.
- Storing Leftovers: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if the soup thickens.
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I make this soup ahead of time?
A1: Yes! This soup actually tastes even better the next day after the flavors have had time to develop. Just store it in the fridge and reheat on the stove when you’re ready to eat.
Q2: Can I freeze this soup?
A2: Yes, this soup freezes well. Let it cool completely, then store it in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove.
Q3: Can I use a different type of miso paste?
A3: Yes, you can use any type of miso paste, but white or yellow miso is milder and sweeter, which complements the carrots and ginger beautifully. Red miso will be a bit stronger in flavor.
Q4: How do I make the soup spicier?
A4: If you want more heat, you can add more ginger or include chili flakes or fresh chili peppers when cooking. Taste as you go to get your desired spice level.
Q5: Can I add protein to this soup?
A5: Absolutely! You can add shredded chicken, tofu cubes, or even chickpeas for an extra protein boost.
Q6: How do I store leftovers?
A6: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove, adding a bit of broth or water if the soup thickens too much.
Q7: Can I make this soup without blending it?
A7: Yes, if you prefer a chunkier texture, you can skip the blending step and enjoy the soup with all its veggies intact.
Q8: What’s the best way to reheat this soup?
A8: Reheat the soup on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. You can also microwave it in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring every 1-2 minutes.
Q9: How can I make this soup lighter?
A9: To make it lighter, skip the cream or coconut milk and add more broth. You can also reduce the amount of miso to cut back on sodium if needed.
Q10: What bread should I serve with this soup?
A10: A crusty, hearty bread like sourdough, a baguette, or a rustic whole grain loaf would work wonderfully with this soup.
Conclusion
Zesty Carrot and Ginger Soup with Miso Twist is everything you want in a soup—vibrant, flavorful, and so satisfying. Whether you need something nourishing after a long day or a quick, healthy lunch, this soup fits the bill perfectly. It’s a wonderful combination of bright flavors, comforting textures, and wholesome ingredients that will make you feel warm and content with every spoonful. Make it today, and enjoy a bowl of pure happiness!
PrintZesty Carrot and Ginger Soup with Miso Twist
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This vibrant, nutrient-packed Zesty Carrot and Ginger Soup is bursting with fresh ginger, savory miso, and a hint of spice. Perfect for a cozy lunch or light dinner, this soup combines earthy carrots with aromatic ginger and the umami richness of miso for an irresistible twist! Add a touch of coconut milk for extra creaminess, and finish with a zesty squeeze of lemon or lime.
Ingredients
For the Soup:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 6 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon white miso paste
- 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup coconut milk (optional, for creaminess)
- Fresh cilantro or parsley, for garnish
- Lemon or lime wedges, for serving
Instructions
- Sauté the Aromatics:
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in garlic and grated ginger, cooking for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Cook the Carrots:
- Add the sliced carrots to the pot and stir to coat in the aromatic mixture. Cook for 3-4 minutes to enhance their natural sweetness.
- Simmer the Soup:
- Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let the soup simmer for 20 minutes, or until the carrots are tender.
- Blend Until Smooth:
- Use an immersion blender or transfer the soup to a blender in batches to purée until smooth and velvety. Return the soup to the pot.
- Add the Miso Twist:
- In a small bowl, whisk the miso paste with a few tablespoons of hot soup to dissolve. Stir the miso mixture back into the soup.
- Season and Adjust:
- Add ground turmeric, red pepper flakes (if using), and adjust the salt and pepper to taste. If desired, stir in coconut milk for added creaminess.
- Serve and Garnish:
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley. Serve with lemon or lime wedges for a zesty finish.
Notes
- Optional for Creaminess: If you prefer a creamy texture, add coconut milk as suggested, or substitute with heavy cream for a richer flavor.
- Spice Level: The red pepper flakes are optional. You can adjust the amount based on your preferred level of heat. If you love spicier dishes, feel free to add more!
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. The soup also freezes well for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Thai-inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 170
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 920mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg