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Creamy Watercress Soup with Potato Peel Broth – vegetarian recipe
Stav Kogan

Creamy Watercress Soup with Potato Peel Broth

Prepare to be enchanted by a soup that is the epitome of elegance and comfort. This Creamy Watercress Soup boasts a velvety texture and a vibrant, peppery flavor, all built upon a surprisingly resourceful and flavorful base: potato peel broth!
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 10 servings
Calories: 295

Ingredients
  

  • ½ cup (113 g / 4 oz) butter
  • 1⅓ cups / 200g (7.1 oz) chopped onions
  • 6 Tbs / 54g (1.9 oz) all-purpose flour
  • 9½ cups / 2.25L hot Potato Peel Broth
  • 6 packed cups / 180g (6.3 oz) watercress, washed
  • 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
  • 4 large eggs
  • 2 Tbs / 30ml (1 fl oz) fresh lemon juice
  • 1 Tbs / 12g (0.42 oz) granulated sugar
  • Fine sea salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • No Potato Peel Broth? A high-quality vegetable broth is a great substitute. For an even richer flavor, use a broth infused with leeks and celery.

Method
 

  1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat.
  2. Add the chopped onions and sauté until they are soft and just beginning to turn golden, about 5-7 minutes.
  3. Sprinkle in the flour, lower the heat, and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon to create a roux.
  4. Gradually pour in the hot Potato Peel Broth while whisking continuously to prevent any lumps from forming.
  5. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
  6. Add the washed watercress to the pot and continue to simmer for about 10 minutes, or until the watercress is wilted and tender.
  7. Carefully transfer the soup in batches to a high-speed blender and purée until completely smooth. Return the smooth soup to the pot.
  8. In a separate medium bowl, whisk the heavy cream and eggs together until well combined.
  9. While whisking constantly, slowly pour about 2 cups (480 ml) of the hot soup into the egg mixture to temper it. This prevents the eggs from scrambling.
  10. Remove the soup pot from the heat, and stir the tempered egg mixture back into the main pot.
  11. Season with lemon juice, sugar, salt, and pepper.
  12. Return the pot to a moderate, low heat.
  13. Stir the soup constantly for 3-4 minutes until it has thickened slightly and is heated through. Be very careful not to let it simmer or boil, as this will curdle the eggs.
  14. Serve immediately.
  15. When blending hot liquids, never fill the blender more than halfway.
  16. Remove the small cap from the lid and cover the opening with a folded kitchen towel to allow steam to escape safely.
  17. Don't skip the tempering step for the eggs and cream!
  18. Adding the hot soup slowly prevents the eggs from scrambling, ensuring a silky-smooth, not chunky, texture.
  19. Taste the soup just before serving. The peppery watercress, tangy lemon, and touch of sugar create a complex flavor profile.
  20. Adjust the salt, pepper, or lemon juice as needed to achieve the perfect balance.

Nutrition

Calories: 295kcalCarbohydrates: 10gProtein: 8gFat: 25g

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