Grandma’s Creamy Parsnip Soup Recipe

Parsnip soup is a delightful dish for several reasons that make it worth trying. Here’s what makes it so delicious and why you should add it to your cooking repertoire:

1. Unique Flavor Profile

Parsnips is one of the ‘forgotten vegetables’ and has a naturally sweet, nutty, and earthy flavor that becomes even more pronounced when cooked. This sweetness, combined with a creamy texture, gives parsnip soup a warm and comforting taste. The subtle spice and herb additions, like nutmeg or cumin, elevate the dish without overpowering its natural charm.

2. Creamy, Velvety Texture

Blended parsnip soup has a luscious, smooth consistency that feels indulgent and soothing. It’s like a warm hug in a bowl, perfect for cozying up on chilly days or when you need a comforting meal.

3. Nutritional Benefits

Parsnips are packed with vitamins and minerals:

• Rich in fiber: Great for digestion and gut health.
• High in vitamins C, K, and B6: Supports immunity, bone health, and energy production.
• Loaded with antioxidants: Helps combat inflammation and promotes overall well-being. Making parsnip soup is a nutritious way to enjoy these benefits without sacrificing taste.

4. Versatile and Customizable

• Pair with spices: Nutmeg, cumin, or coriander can add a warming kick.
• Sweet or savory: Balance the sweetness with savory ingredients like garlic and onions or enhance it with a drizzle of honey.
• Top it up: Garnish with croutons, crispy bacon bits, or a swirl of cream for added texture and flavor.

5. Simple and Affordable

Parsnips are inexpensive and readily available, especially in the fall and winter. The recipe uses pantry staples like potatoes, onions, and stock, making it easy and budget-friendly to prepare.

6. Crowd-Pleasing Comfort Food

This soup appeals to a wide range of tastes and dietary needs:

• Vegetarian/Vegan options: Swap butter for olive oil and cream for plant-based milk.
• Elegant or casual: Serve it at a dinner party or enjoy it as a simple family meal.

7. It’s a Nostalgic Dish

The rustic, homemade quality of parsnip soup often reminds people of family traditions and comforting meals. Cooking it at home brings a sense of warmth and satisfaction, making it more than just a meal—it’s an experience.

Why Should You Make It?

If you’re looking for a dish that’s:

• Wholesome yet indulgent
• Easy to make with simple ingredients
• Packed with flavor and nutrients
• Perfect for any occasion

Parsnip soup is your answer. It’s the ultimate blend of taste, comfort, and health—a bowlful of happiness!

Ingredients

• 2 tbsp butter (or olive oil for a lighter option)
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 lb (450g) parsnips, peeled and chopped into small pieces
• 1 medium potato, peeled and diced
• 4 cups (1 liter) vegetable or chicken stock
• 1 cup (240ml) milk or cream
• 1 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley or chives, for garnish
• Optional: A drizzle of honey for a touch of sweetness

Instructions

1. Prepare the Base

   • Melt the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
   • Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

2. Cook the Vegetables

   • Add the chopped parsnips and potato to the pot. Stir to coat the vegetables in the buttery onion mixture.
   • Sprinkle in the nutmeg and cumin, stirring well. Let the spices toast lightly for about a minute.

3. Simmer

   • Pour in the stock, ensuring the vegetables are fully covered. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. Cover and cook for 20–25 minutes, or until the parsnips and potatoes are tender.

4. Blend the Soup

   • Remove the pot from heat and use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. If using a countertop blender, allow the soup to cool slightly before blending in batches.
   • Stir in the milk or cream, then reheat gently over low heat.

5. Season to Taste

   • Add salt and pepper as needed. For a sweeter touch, stir in a small drizzle of honey.

6. Serve and Garnish

   • Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley or chives, and enjoy with warm crusty bread or croutons.

Tips from Grandma

• Add a twist: A peeled and diced apple cooked with the vegetables adds a subtle sweetness.
• For extra depth: Roast the parsnips beforehand with a bit of olive oil until golden brown.
• Storage: This soup freezes well. Just leave out the milk or cream until reheating.

This recipe balances the natural sweetness of parsnips with warm spices and creamy goodness—a timeless comfort food for cozy evenings. Enjoy! 🥣