Welcome to easycrispyrecipes.com, where we bring you delicious and easy-to-make recipes! Today, we’re diving into the world of comforting soups with a special focus on our Roasted Garlic And Eggplant Soup. This recipe combines the rich, smoky flavor of roasted eggplant with the aromatic and slightly sweet taste of roasted garlic. Perfect for any season, this soup is a fantastic addition to your culinary repertoire. Originating from Mediterranean cuisine, this soup has evolved to include various influences and adaptations, making it a versatile dish loved by many.
Ingredients
For the Soup
- 2 large eggplants
- 1 whole garlic bulb
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth for a non-vegetarian version)
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup heavy cream or coconut milk for a vegan option
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
Optional Add-ins
- 1 cup roasted zucchini
- 1 cup shredded cabbage
- 1 cup cooked chicken (for a hearty, non-vegetarian version)
Instructions
Roasting the Vegetables
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare the Eggplants: Cut the eggplants in half lengthwise and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the cut sides with olive oil and sprinkle with a pinch of salt.
- Prepare the Garlic: Slice the top off the garlic bulb to expose the cloves, drizzle with olive oil, and wrap it in aluminum foil.
- Roast: Place the eggplants and garlic in the preheated oven. Roast the garlic for 30 minutes or until soft, and the eggplants for 40-45 minutes or until the flesh is tender and golden brown.
- Cool and Scoop: Once roasted, allow the eggplants and garlic to cool. Scoop out the eggplant flesh and squeeze the roasted garlic cloves out of their skins.
Making the Soup
- Sauté the Vegetables: In a large pot, heat the remaining olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the roasted eggplant flesh, roasted garlic, diced tomatoes, thyme, oregano, and vegetable broth to the pot. Stir well to combine.
- Simmer: Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Blend the Soup: Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth and creamy. If you prefer a chunkier texture, blend only half of the soup and leave the rest as is.
- Add Cream: Stir in the heavy cream or coconut milk. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If you’re adding optional ingredients like roasted zucchini, shredded cabbage, or cooked chicken, stir them in now and let the soup simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
Tips and Variations
Cooking Tips
- Choosing Eggplants: Look for firm, shiny eggplants with smooth skin and no blemishes.
- Roasting Tips: Ensure the eggplants and garlic are well-roasted to bring out their natural sweetness and enhance the soup’s flavor.
- Blending: For a velvety smooth texture, blend the soup thoroughly. If you prefer a bit of texture, blend only half of the soup.
Variations
- Tomato Addition: Add a can of fire-roasted tomatoes for a smoky flavor.
- Spices: Add a pinch of cumin or smoked paprika for an extra layer of flavor.
- Protein: For a more filling soup, add cooked chickpeas or lentils.
- Herbs: Experiment with fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for different flavor profiles.
Substitutions
- Dairy-Free: Use coconut milk or almond milk instead of heavy cream for a vegan version.
- Broth: Substitute vegetable broth with chicken broth for a richer taste.
Nutritional Information
Per Serving:
- Calories: 220
- Protein: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fat: 12g
- Fiber: 6g
- Sodium: 600mg
Conclusion
There you have it, a delicious and hearty Roasted Garlic And Eggplant Soup that’s perfect for any occasion. This soup is not only easy to make but also packed with flavors that will leave your taste buds wanting more. Give it a try, and don’t forget to experiment with the tips and variations to make it your own.