Dante Carrillo
Watercress soup is a simple, healthy, and flavourful dish that can be made in under 40 minutes. It is a great way to get some extra greens into your diet, as watercress is packed with vitamins and minerals. The soup can be customised with toppings such as croutons, nuts, seeds, or cheese, and it can be served hot or cold. Watercress soup is also a good make-ahead option, as it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to five days or frozen for up to three months.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Preparation time | Under 40 minutes |
| Calories | 320 per serving |
| Ingredients | Watercress, potatoes, onion, celery, stock, milk, lemon juice, salt, pepper, olive oil, etc. |
| Add-ins | Parmesan, cream, Greek yogurt, goat milk yogurt, chives, garlic croutons, bacon, nuts, seeds, etc. |
| Garnishes | Fried shallots, herbs, olive oil, croutons, etc. |
| Storage | Refrigerate for 3-5 days, freeze for 2-3 months |
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What You'll Learn
Watercress soup ingredients
Watercress soup is a simple dish that can be customised with toppings and add-ins. The base of the soup typically includes:
- Watercress: Use the stems and leaves, ensuring they are well-washed and free of dirt.
- Potatoes: These add thickness and creaminess to the soup. You can replace them with courgettes (zucchini) for a thinner consistency and brighter green colour.
- Onions: These are typically cooked in butter or oil until soft and translucent.
- Stock: Vegetable or chicken stock can be used, with the latter adding a richer flavour.
Optional ingredients to enhance the flavour and texture include:
- Celery: Adds a natural saltiness to the soup.
- Peas: Frozen green peas add colour and body to the soup.
- Cream or crème fraîche: For a creamier texture.
- Parmesan: For a savoury depth of flavour.
- Lemon juice: For brightness and a tangy note.
- Spices: Nutmeg can be added, along with salt and pepper to taste.
The soup can be garnished with fried shallots, herbs, olive oil, or croutons for added crunch and flavour.
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How to make watercress soup
Watercress soup is a nutritious and comforting meal that is easy to prepare and can be served hot or cold. It is a popular dish in France and Belgium, and is typically made with a base of shallots, celery, and potato, with peppery watercress adding a punch of flavour.
To make watercress soup, start by washing the watercress thoroughly in cold water to remove any grit. You can use all the leaves and tender stems, but discard any tough or woody stems. Next, melt some butter in a Dutch oven or soup pot over medium heat. Add a diced onion and season with salt and pepper. Cook until the onion is translucent, about 5-6 minutes. Then, add some water and diced potato, and cook until the potatoes are tender, about 10 minutes. You can also add some celery at this stage for extra flavour.
Once the potatoes are tender, turn off the heat and add the watercress, cooking for another 2 minutes until wilted. You can also add some frozen peas to boost the colour and body of the soup. Puree the soup using an immersion blender, or wait until it has cooled slightly and puree in batches using a regular blender.
Finally, rewarm the soup in the pot and season with salt and pepper to taste. You can also add a squeeze of lemon juice, a swirl of cream or yoghurt, and some grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavour and creaminess. Serve the soup with some croutons, chopped chives, or fried shallots on top, and enjoy!
Watercress soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days and frozen for up to 3 months. It is a quick and healthy meal option, packed with vitamins and minerals, and can be easily customised with different toppings and add-ins.
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Watercress soup toppings
Watercress soup is a simple soup that can be customised with toppings. Here are some ideas for watercress soup toppings:
- Fresh watercress leaves
- Herbs, such as mint or parsley
- Fried shallots
- A swirl of goat's milk yoghurt and chopped chives
- Garlic croutons
- Crispy bacon cubes
- Nuts or seeds, such as pumpkin seeds, with a drizzle of olive or pumpkin seed oil
- A spoonful of sour cream or Greek yoghurt
- A squeeze of lemon juice
- A pinch of nutmeg or smoked paprika
You can also serve watercress soup with crusty bread, a side of roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad.
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Watercress soup nutritional value
Watercress soup is a nutritious dish, packed with vitamins and antioxidants. It is a good source of potassium and vitamins A, C, and K. The peppery green leaves of the watercress plant shine in this soup, providing a delicate texture and a slightly spicy flavour.
The nutritional value of watercress soup can be enhanced by adding other ingredients. For example, potatoes are a common addition, providing creaminess and a filling base to the soup. Peas can also be added to bolster colour and body.
The soup can be garnished with fresh watercress leaves, herbs, or fried shallots, adding further nutritional value and a pretty finish. Some recipes suggest a swirl of goat's milk yoghurt and chopped chives, or a drizzle of olive oil.
Watercress soup is a low-calorie dish, with one bowl containing around 90-320 calories, depending on the ingredients and quantities used. It is a healthy, vibrant option for those looking for a quick and easy meal.
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Watercress soup storage
Watercress soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to five days. However, it is recommended to leave out any dairy products, such as sour cream, until serving. To store watercress soup in the refrigerator, place it in an airtight container and keep it at a temperature of 40°F (5°C) or below.
Watercress soup can also be frozen for extended storage. To freeze watercress soup, it is important to omit any dairy products, such as sour cream, and place the soup in an airtight container before freezing. Frozen watercress soup can be stored for up to three months and should be defrosted overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently in a saucepan until heated through.
When storing watercress soup, it is important to follow food safety guidelines to prevent bacterial growth and ensure the soup remains safe to consume. Proper storage practices will help maintain the quality and freshness of the soup during the storage period.
Additionally, it is worth noting that the storage time may vary depending on the ingredients used and the freshness of the watercress. Always check the soup for any signs of spoilage, such as changes in colour, texture, or odour, before consuming it.
By following these storage instructions, you can enjoy your watercress soup over several days or even months, making it a convenient and nutritious option for meal preparation and planning.
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Frequently asked questions
You will need watercress, potatoes, onion, and butter. You can also add milk, nutmeg, lemon juice, and seasoning to taste.
First, melt butter in a pot and add the onion. Season with salt and pepper and cook until the onion is translucent. Next, add water and potatoes and cook until the potatoes are tender. Then, add the watercress and cook for a further 2 minutes. Puree the soup using a blender. Finally, rewarm the soup, season with salt and pepper, and serve.
Watercress soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months.
