This time of year we could all do with a little boost to our immune systems with a little help through our diets. This super simple carrot soup recipe is packed with nutritious ingredients to warm you through and help give you a little help you may want this winter.
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Ingredients
Carrots
Leeks
Celery
Turmeric
Raw Honey
Ginger
Immune Boosting benefits
Disclaimer: I'm no doctor and your should always do your own research to verify these benefits.
Carrots
Packed full of vitamin A, which is crucial for your immune system, carrots help to support T cells which are a white blood cell that help our immune systems. Naturally high in vitamin A these super food wonders can help to boost your eyesight, perfect for those longer nights. Carrots are also full of fiber to help with your gut health and make you feel fuller for longer.
Leeks
Leeks are a natural probiotic containing the same compounds which make other allium vegetables such as garlic and onions so effective in combating bacterial infection. Leeks have natural antioxidant properties which can protect the body from cellular damage and help reduce the risk of numerous illnesses.
Celery
A natural source of antioxidants, celery can help to protect cells, blood vessels, and organs from oxidative damage. Because celery is a source of phytonutrients, studies suggest is it a natural anti inflammatory. Packed full of fiber to help with your gut health it may support digestive function.
Turmeric
It is widely known that turmeric contains numerous health benefits and is believed to provide major benefits for your body and brain. Many of these benefits come from its main active ingredient, curcumin. Turmeric can increase the antioxidant capacity of the body as well as having anti-inflammatory, anticancer, antioxidant, and other properties.
Raw Honey
Always try to get a local raw honey for the full benefits of of amino acids, antioxidants, vitamins, minerals and sugar. (please be aware: raw honey is unsuitable for under 1's). Studies also suggested that the antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties are effective for helping a sore throat.
Ginger
Forms of ginger have long been known to be used in traditional and alternative medicines. Ginger’s antimicrobial properties could make it useful for fighting bacterial and fungal infections, which suggests it can be useful towards to immune system. Gingerol, gingers main bioactive compound, has powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, and has been used throughout history to help relieve nausea.
Equipment
Yield
Makes 4 Large portions
Ingredients
2 tbsp Oil pf your choice
750g Carrots
300g Leeks
300g Celery
1 Liter Vegetable Stock
2 tsp Dried Turmeric
3 tbsp Raw Honey
2 tsp Fresh Ginger
Cheddar cheese (optional)
Method
Prepare the vegetables: Wash the fresh vegetables thoroughly and roughly chop them into 1/2-inch cubes. There's no need to peel the carrots if they're clean.
Cook the vegetables: In a large stove-top pot, heat 1-2 tablespoons of oil over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the chopped vegetables and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened but not browned.
Simmer: Add the vegetable stock to the pot and bring it to a gentle simmer. Allow it to simmer for about 10 minutes to let the flavors infuse.
Blend: Remove the pot from the heat. Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. If using a countertop blender, blend in batches to avoid overfilling and spilling.
Season: Stir in 1 teaspoon of dried turmeric, 1 tablespoon of raw honey, and finely grate 1-2 teaspoons of fresh ginger into the soup. Stir well to combine.
Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and top with grated cheddar for added sharpness. Serve with slices of homemade bread and butter.
Storage
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, or freeze for longer storage.
If you try my Immune boosting carrot soup recipe be sure to let me know what you think in the comments below!
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