As I stood by the stove, the rich aroma of roasted carrots wafted through my kitchen, instantly enveloping me in comfort. Today, I’m excited to share my Spicy Miso Carrot Soup, a simple yet delightful blend that perfectly marries the natural sweetness of those vibrant orange veggies with the savory umami of miso paste. This soup is not only a heartfelt hug in a bowl, but it’s also a fantastic way to transform leftover carrots into a nutritious and satisfying meal. Plus, with the added crunch of crispy rice croutons, you’ll find yourself returning for seconds! Ready to discover how this quick dinner can invigorate your weeknight cooking? Let’s jump in!
Why is Spicy Miso Carrot Soup a Must-Try?
Comforting and Nourishing: This soup is a warm hug in a bowl, combining the delightful sweetness of roasted carrots with the deep umami flavor of miso.
Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you can create a heartwarming meal without breaking a sweat.
Healthy Choice for Everyone: Packed with vitamins and minerals, it’s a low-calorie, fiber-rich option—perfect for those looking to nourish themselves without sacrificing flavor.
Versatile and Flexible: Feel free to customize it! Add lentils for protein or swap in your favorite veggies for a personal touch, just like I do in my Carrot Apple Salad.
Balance of Textures: The velvety soup paired with crispy rice croutons makes every spoonful an enjoyable experience.
Crowd-Pleaser: This soup is sure to impress, whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends, keeping everyone coming back for more!
Spicy Miso Carrot Soup Ingredients
Transform your cooking with these simple ingredients for a delicious Spicy Miso Carrot Soup.
For the Soup
• Carrot – The star of the show, providing natural sweetness; opt for fresh, firm carrots for maximum flavor.
• Onion – Adds depth and sweetness; shallots are a great substitute for a milder taste.
• Garlic – Enhances the overall flavor; fresh cloves bring the best aroma.
• Ginger – Infuses warmth and spice into the soup; young ginger offers a milder option.
• Red Chilli – Delivers the heat; adjust to your spice level or use milder peppers if preferred.
• Miso Paste – Brings an umami richness; choose white miso for a softer flavor or red for something bolder.
• Vegetable Stock – The soup base; low-sodium is ideal for keeping the saltiness in check.
For the Croutons
• Cooked Jasmine Rice – Leftover rice works perfectly for crispy rice croutons; any type can do!
• Toasted Sesame Seeds – Adds a lovely nutty crunch; feel free to use any seeds or omit for a lighter option.
• Red Pepper Flakes – For an extra kick; skip if you prefer a milder soup.
• Vegetable Oil – Essential for roasting and frying; neutral oils work best as substitutes.
For Garnish
• Mixed Seeds – Optional but adds delightful crunch on top; sprinkle for visual appeal.
• Spring Onions – Freshness is key; chop the green parts to brighten up your soup’s presentation.
You’re just a few ingredients away from creating a bowl of nourishing goodness! Enjoy the flavor journey with this Spicy Miso Carrot Soup—you’ll love every bite!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Spicy Miso Carrot Soup
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 200°C (or 180°C if using a fan setting). This temperature is perfect for roasting the vegetables, which will intensify their flavors. As the oven heats up, you’ll have time to prepare the carrots and remaining ingredients for your Spicy Miso Carrot Soup.
Step 2: Prepare Carrots for Roasting
Peel the carrots and then slice them into 1-inch pieces, keeping the peels aside. Place the peels in a roasting tin, drizzle them with a bit of vegetable oil, and roast in the oven for about 10 minutes until they are crispy. This step not only utilizes every part of the carrot but also adds a delightful crunch later on.
Step 3: Roast the Veggies
In a large roasting tin, combine the carrot pieces, onion, garlic, ginger, and red chilli. Season generously with salt and pepper, drizzle with a little more vegetable oil, and toss everything to coat evenly. Roast in the oven for about 35 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and slightly caramelized, filling your kitchen with a lovely aroma.
Step 4: Make Crispy Rice Croutons
While the vegetables are roasting, mix your cooked jasmine rice with sesame seeds and red pepper flakes in a medium bowl. Next, press the mixture into a lined baking tin, ensuring it’s compact. Let it cool, then cut into squares. Air fry these croutons at 180°C for 7-15 minutes until golden and crispy, watching them closely to avoid overcooking.
Step 5: Sauté Aromatic Base
In a saucepan, heat a tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the sliced ginger and red chilli, cooking for about 1 minute until fragrant. Then, toss in mixed seeds and continue to cook for another minute, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. This step builds a flavorful foundation for your Spicy Miso Carrot Soup.
Step 6: Blend It All Together
Once the roasted vegetables are done, add them to the saucepan along with the miso paste and vegetable stock. Blend everything until smooth using either a blender or an immersion blender. Simmer the blended mixture for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Taste and adjust any seasonings as needed, ensuring a comforting flavor profile.
Step 7: Serve and Garnish
Ladle the warm Spicy Miso Carrot Soup into bowls while it’s hot. Top each serving with the crispy carrot peels, homemade rice croutons, and a drizzle of chilli ginger oil for that extra kick. Garnish with chopped spring onions for a pop of color and freshness, inviting everyone to enjoy this nourishing dish.
What to Serve with Spicy Miso Carrot Soup
Transform your nourishing bowl of soup into a memorable meal with these delightful pairings.
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Crusty Bread: A warm, crusty baguette is perfect for soaking up every last drop of the flavorful soup, enhancing the comforting experience.
The rustic texture of the bread balances beautifully with the silky soup, making it the ultimate pairing for dipping. -
Simple Green Salad: A light, crisp salad with mixed greens and a tangy vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast, brightening each bite.
The tartness of the dressing complements the sweetness of the carrot soup and brings a fresh crunch to the table. -
Roasted Vegetables: A tray of seasonal roasted vegetables can provide color and flavor diversity, adding a wholesome touch to your meal.
The caramelized edges can echo the roasted notes in the soup while introducing different textures. -
Coconut Rice: Fluffy coconut rice can add a subtle sweetness and creamy texture, which pairs elegantly with the spicy miso flavors.
This tropical twist will transport your taste buds and create a new depth of flavor in your meal. -
Pickled Vegetables: A side of tangy pickles brings a crunchy, zesty element that cuts through the richness of the soup.
These bright flavors can perk up your palate and make each spoonful of soup even more enjoyable. -
Iced Green Tea: A refreshing iced green tea provides a light, herbal complement that refreshes the taste buds between bites.
Its subtle earthiness enhances the umami character of the soup, balancing the experience perfectly.
Spicy Miso Carrot Soup Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine as you customize this inviting soup with delightful twists!
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Protein Boost: Add red lentils or chickpeas for extra heartiness and nutrition, making this soup more filling. Not only will you enjoy added texture, but the legumes also bring additional health benefits.
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Vegetable Swap: Replace carrots with butternut squash for a deliciously different flavor profile. This change gives the soup a sweeter note and beautifully complements the miso.
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Spice Adjustment: For spice lovers, include more red chilli or add a hot sauce of your choice to elevate the heat level. Alternatively, tone it down by using bell peppers instead; this makes for a milder and sweeter experience.
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Creamy Addition: Blend in a splash of coconut milk to create a richer, creamier version of the soup. This addition not only enhances the texture but also adds a subtle sweetness that pairs beautifully with the spices.
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Flavor Enhancements: Stir in a spoonful of peanut butter or almond butter for a unique nutty flavor that elevates this classic dish. It creates a rich, creamy base that everyone will love.
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Topping Twist: Instead of just crispy rice croutons, crumble a bit of toasted nori on top for an additional layer of flavor—bringing a taste of the sea to your soup!
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Fresh Herb Infusion: Add fresh cilantro or basil right before serving for a burst of freshness. Not only do they heighten the visual appeal, but they also bring a lovely aroma that tantalizes the senses.
With such versatile options, you can create a soup that’s uniquely yours! If you’re looking for more inspiration on using simple yet vibrant ingredients, check out my Cabbage Tofu Soup or dive into a hearty bowl of Creamy Tuscan Ravioli Soup. The possibilities are endless, and I can’t wait for you to explore!
How to Store and Freeze Spicy Miso Carrot Soup
Fridge: Store the soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving, ensuring it’s piping hot all the way through.
Freezer: Freeze the soup in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Leave space at the top for expansion and thaw overnight in the fridge when ready to enjoy.
Crispy Rice Croutons: Keep the croutons in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Re-crisp them in the oven before serving to regain their crunch.
Reheating: Gently reheat the soup on the stove over low heat or in the microwave until steaming hot. Stir well to blend flavors before serving.
Make Ahead Options
Preparing your Spicy Miso Carrot Soup in advance is a fantastic way to save time during busy weeknights! You can roast the carrots and other vegetables up to 3 days before you plan to enjoy the soup. Just allow them to cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. As for the crispy rice croutons, they can also be made ahead of time and kept in an airtight container for up to 2 days. When it’s time to serve, simply reheat the soup on the stove, blending in the miso paste and vegetable stock for a smooth consistency, and top with your croutons for a delightful crunch. This way, you ensure every bowl is just as delicious and comforting as when first made, making meal prep a breeze!
Expert Tips for Spicy Miso Carrot Soup
Creamy Variation: Add coconut milk: For a richer and creamier soup, blend in a splash of coconut milk after pureeing the roasted vegetables.
Adjusting Thickness: Control consistency: The amount of vegetable stock determines the thickness; add more for a thinner soup, or less for a heartier version.
Cooking Croutons: Avoid burning: Check on the rice croutons frequently while air frying to ensure they’re evenly cooked and beautifully golden without burning.
Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh garlic and ginger: Always opt for fresh garlic and ginger for the best aroma and flavor; pre-minced jars won’t deliver the same intensity.
Customize Your Soup: Mix and match veggies: Feel free to swap carrots for butternut squash or add protein-rich lentils for heartiness; the Spicy Miso Carrot Soup welcomes your twists!
Spicy Miso Carrot Soup Recipe FAQs
What kind of carrots should I use for the soup?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, use fresh, firm carrots. Look for ones without dark spots or blemishes. If you can, choose organic carrots for a sweeter taste and higher nutrient content.
How should I store the Spicy Miso Carrot Soup?
To keep your soup fresh, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, make sure it is piping hot all the way through before serving.
Can I freeze Spicy Miso Carrot Soup?
Yes, you can! For optimal results, freeze the soup in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Remember to leave some space at the top for expansion. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
What if my soup is too thick?
Not to worry! If your soup ends up thicker than desired, you can easily thin it out. Simply add more vegetable stock or water, a little at a time, until you reach your desired consistency. Heat it gently as you stir to blend everything smoothly.
Can I modify the recipe for dietary restrictions?
Very much so! This recipe is inherently vegan, making it great for plant-based diets. However, be mindful of any allergies related to sesame seeds or miso paste, which can contain soy. If needed, use alternative garnishes or gluten-free miso.
How do I make the crispy rice croutons?
For the croutons, mix your cooked jasmine rice with toasted sesame seeds and red pepper flakes, then press the mixture into a lined baking tin to cool. Cut them into squares and air fry at 180°C for 7-15 minutes, checking frequently until they’re golden and crisp. Enjoy this delightful crunch on top of your soup!
Spicy Miso Carrot Soup: Comforting Vegan Delight You’ll Love
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 200°C (or 180°C for fan setting).
- Peel and slice carrots into 1-inch pieces, roast peels with oil for 10 minutes.
- Combine carrot pieces, onion, garlic, ginger, and red chilli in a roasting tin. Season and roast for 35 minutes.
- Mix cooked rice with sesame seeds and red pepper flakes, air fry for 7-15 minutes until golden and crispy.
- Heat oil in a saucepan, sauté ginger and red chilli for 1 minute, then add mixed seeds.
- Add roasted veggies, miso paste, and vegetable stock; blend until smooth, then simmer for 5 minutes.
- Ladle soup into bowls, top with crispy carrot peels, rice croutons, drizzle chilli ginger oil, and garnish with spring onions.
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