Roasted Carrot Soup

Roasted Carrot Soup: A Velvety, Sweet, and Comforting Bowl of Sunshine 🥕🔥🍲

1. Introduction

Nothing warms the soul quite like a bowl of homemade Roasted Carrot Soup. This vibrant, velvety soup is packed with natural sweetness from caramelized roasted carrots, balanced with aromatic spices and a touch of cream for luxurious richness. Whether you’re looking for a cozy weeknight dinner or an elegant starter for a dinner party, this Roasted Carrot Soup recipe is sure to impress. Plus, it’s naturally gluten-free, easily made vegan-friendly (with simple substitutions), and loaded with nutrients that make it as healthy as it is delicious.

If you love comforting soups like our Creamy Butternut Squash Soup or Tomato Basil Soup, you’ll adore this carrot version. The roasting process brings out incredible depth of flavor that makes this soup stand out from ordinary carrot soups. Let’s dive into this simple yet spectacular dish!

2. Ingredients

This Roasted Carrot Soup uses simple, wholesome ingredients that come together to create something truly special. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 2 lbs (900g) fresh carrots – peeled and chopped (look for bright orange, firm carrots for best results)
• 1 large onion – diced (yellow or sweet onions work well)
• 4 cloves garlic – minced (fresh garlic makes all the difference)
• 3 tbsp olive oil – divided (extra virgin for best flavor)
• 1 tsp ground cumin – adds warm, earthy notes
• ½ tsp ground coriander – complements the carrots beautifully
• ½ tsp smoked paprika – optional but recommended for depth
• 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth – use homemade or good quality store-bought
• ½ cup heavy cream or coconut milk – for vegan option
• Salt and black pepper – to taste
• Fresh parsley or thyme – for garnish and freshness

For those who enjoy experimenting with flavors, you might also like to try adding some of the spices we use in our Spiced Chickpea Snack Mix for an extra flavor boost.

3. Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Carrots

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This high temperature is perfect for caramelizing the natural sugars in the carrots. Peel and chop the carrots into even-sized pieces (about 1-inch chunks) for uniform roasting. This ensures they cook evenly and develop that deep, caramelized flavor we’re after. Pro tip: Save the carrot peels to make vegetable stock or add to compost!

If you’re looking for other great roasted vegetable recipes, check out our Garlic Roasted Green Beans or Crispy Roasted Chickpeas for more oven-roasted inspiration.

Step 2: Roast the Carrots

Toss the chopped carrots with 2 tbsp olive oil, salt, and pepper on a rimmed baking sheet. Spread them in a single layer (crowding will cause them to steam rather than roast) and roast for 25-30 minutes until tender and slightly charred at the edges. About halfway through roasting, give them a stir for even browning.

The roasting process is what makes this soup truly special – it intensifies the natural sweetness of the carrots while adding subtle smoky notes. You’ll know they’re ready when they’re fork-tender and have developed some beautiful caramelized spots. This same roasting technique works wonders with other vegetables too – try it with the sweet potatoes in our Sweet Potato Black Bean Chili.

Step 3: Sauté Aromatics

While the carrots roast, heat the remaining olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent and just starting to caramelize (about 5-7 minutes). Stir in the minced garlic, cumin, coriander, and smoked paprika (if using), cooking for another minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic – it should just become aromatic.

This combination of aromatics creates a wonderful flavor base for the soup. The cumin adds warmth, the coriander brings a citrusy note, and the smoked paprika (if using) contributes depth. For another great dish that uses similar aromatic techniques, try our Broiled Tilapia with Herbs.

Step 4: Blend and Simmer

Add the roasted carrots and broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Use an immersion blender to purée the soup until perfectly smooth. For extra silkiness, you can strain through a fine-mesh sieve, though this step is optional.

Stir in the cream (or coconut milk for vegan version) and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. The cream adds luxurious richness, but if you prefer a lighter version, you can reduce the amount or omit it entirely. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs and perhaps a swirl of cream or yogurt. For a complete meal, pair with our Vegetable Spring Rolls or Strawberry Spinach Salad.

For another excellent carrot soup recipe with slightly different flavors, check out this version from Cookie and Kate.

4. Tips for the Best Roasted Carrot Soup

• Roast for Depth: Don’t skip roasting the carrots—this step is what transforms ordinary carrot soup into something extraordinary by enhancing sweetness and adding smoky notes.
• Spice Variations: Try adding a pinch of ginger or turmeric for extra warmth and health benefits. A dash of orange zest can brighten the flavors beautifully.
• Texture Control: For a chunkier soup, blend half and leave some carrots whole. For super silky texture, strain through a fine mesh sieve after blending.
• Storage: This soup keeps well in the fridge for 3-4 days and actually tastes better the next day as flavors continue to develop. It also freezes beautifully for up to 2 months – perfect for meal prep!
• Garnish Creatively: Try topping with toasted pepitas, croutons, a drizzle of chili oil, or even some crumbled feta for added interest.

5. Serving Suggestions

This versatile Roasted Carrot Soup pairs beautifully with so many accompaniments. For a casual meal, serve with crusty bread or our Rainbow Sushi Rolls for a colorful spread. For more formal occasions, try garnishing with a dollop of crème fraîche, microgreens, and edible flowers.

For protein, consider adding:

• Shredded rotisserie chicken
• Crispy bacon bits
• Seared scallops
• White beans or lentils for vegetarian protein

For wine pairings, a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or light Pinot Noir complements the soup’s sweetness beautifully.

6. Nutritional Benefits

This Roasted Carrot Soup isn’t just delicious – it’s incredibly good for you! Carrots are nutritional powerhouses, rich in:

• Beta-carotene – which converts to vitamin A in the body, supporting eye health and immunity
• Fiber – promotes digestive health and helps maintain steady blood sugar levels
• Antioxidants – including lutein and lycopene that fight inflammation
• Vitamin K1 – important for blood clotting and bone health
• Potassium – essential for blood pressure control

When you roast the carrots, you actually increase the bioavailability of these nutrients, making them easier for your body to absorb. The olive oil in the recipe helps your body absorb the fat-soluble vitamins, while the spices add their own health benefits.

7. Variations

One of the great things about this Roasted Carrot Soup recipe is how adaptable it is. Here are some delicious variations to try:

• Spicy Kick: Add a dash of cayenne, harissa paste, or diced jalapeño with the aromatics
• Herb-Infused: Stir in fresh rosemary, sage, or thyme during cooking
• Protein Boost: Top with crispy chickpeas, shredded chicken, or even shrimp
• Root Vegetable Blend: Mix in some roasted parsnips or sweet potatoes with the carrots
• Creamy Vegan Version: Use coconut milk instead of cream and vegetable broth
• Thai-Inspired: Add red curry paste and finish with lime juice and cilantro
• Moroccan Twist: Include ras el hanout spice blend and top with mint yogurt

8. Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I make this soup ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! This Roasted Carrot Soup actually tastes better the next day as the flavors have more time to develop. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. When reheating, you may need to add a splash of broth or water as it thickens when chilled.

Q: Is this soup freezer-friendly?
A: Yes, it freezes beautifully for up to 2 months. Cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers, leaving about an inch of headspace for expansion. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Q: Can I use baby carrots?
A: You can, but chop them into smaller pieces for even roasting. Whole baby carrots will take longer to roast through. Regular carrots tend to have better flavor and are more economical.

Q: My soup is too thick. How can I thin it?
A: Simply stir in additional broth, water, or even some milk until you reach your desired consistency. Remember you can always add more liquid but can’t take it out!

Q: Can I make this in an Instant Pot?
A: While roasting the carrots first is ideal for maximum flavor, you can make a quicker version by sautéing the aromatics in the Instant Pot, then pressure cooking the carrots with broth for about 8 minutes before blending.

9. Conclusion

This Roasted Carrot Soup is a celebration of simple ingredients transformed through careful cooking into something truly extraordinary. The natural sweetness of caramelized carrots, combined with aromatic spices and creamy richness, makes it a must-try recipe that’s equally at home on a casual weeknight table or at an elegant dinner party.

What makes this recipe special is the roasting step – it’s what elevates this from ordinary carrot soup to something with incredible depth of flavor. The variations are endless, allowing you to customize it to your taste preferences or what you have on hand.

Whether you’re a seasoned cook looking for a new twist on vegetable soup or a beginner wanting an approachable yet impressive recipe, this Roasted Carrot Soup is foolproof and guaranteed to delight. It’s nourishing, comforting, and packed with flavor in every spoonful. Give it a try and discover why it’s become a favorite in so many households! 🍂🥄✨

Don’t forget to check out our other delicious soup recipes like Butternut Squash Soup and Creamy Tomato Basil Soup for more comforting bowl ideas!

Print