Imagine a soup so velvety and vibrant that it transforms ordinary vegetables into a culinary masterpiece! This Creamy Red Bell Pepper Soup is not just a recipe, it's an experience that will transport your taste buds to a world of rich, smooth flavors. With its stunning crimson color and luxurious texture, this soup is the perfect blend of simplicity and sophistication that will make you look like a professional chef in just 45 minutes.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 red bell peppers, chopped
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Wash and prepare all vegetables: chop the red bell peppers into medium-sized pieces, dice the onion finely, and mince the garlic cloves.
- Heat a large pot over medium heat. Add a small amount of olive oil to prevent sticking and sauté the chopped onions until they become translucent and soft, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Add minced garlic to the pot and cook for an additional 30-45 seconds, stirring continuously to prevent burning and release the aromatic flavors.
- Introduce the chopped red bell peppers to the pot, stirring to combine with the onions and garlic. Cook for 5-6 minutes until the peppers begin to soften and slightly caramelize.
- Pour the vegetable broth into the pot, ensuring all vegetables are mostly covered. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for 15-20 minutes until the peppers are completely tender.
- Remove the pot from heat and use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth and creamy. Alternatively, carefully transfer the mixture to a standard blender and blend until completely smooth.
- Return the pot to low heat and stir in the heavy cream, creating a rich and velvety texture. Gently warm the soup without bringing it to a boil.
- Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Stir well to incorporate the seasonings.
- Ladle the hot soup into serving bowls. Optional: garnish with a swirl of cream, chopped fresh herbs, or croutons before serving.
Tips
- Choose bright, firm red bell peppers for the most robust flavor and color.
- Use an immersion blender for easier and safer blending directly in the pot.
- To enhance depth of flavor, consider roasting the bell peppers before adding them to the soup.
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or coconut milk.
- Fresh herbs like basil or thyme can elevate the soup's aromatic profile.
- Let the soup simmer slowly to develop a more complex taste.
- If the soup is too thick, thin it out with additional vegetable broth.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 14g
Cholesterol: 80mg
