Carrot & Parsnip Soup Recipe
Introduction
This comforting carrot and parsnip soup is a perfect way to enjoy seasonal root vegetables in a creamy, flavorful blend. It’s simple to prepare and packed with warmth, making it ideal for cozy lunches or light dinners.

Ingredients
- ½ tbsp olive oil
- 2 onions, finely chopped
- 2 celery sticks, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, crushed
- ½ small bunch thyme, leaves picked
- 3 large carrots, peeled and roughly chopped
- 2 large parsnips, peeled and roughly chopped
- 1 litre vegetable stock
- 100ml double cream
- ¼ bunch parsley, finely chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1: Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and celery, and fry for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally until softened. If the vegetables start to catch, add a small splash of water to prevent burning.
- Step 2: Stir in the crushed garlic, thyme leaves, and ½ teaspoon black pepper. Cook for 2 minutes until fragrant.
- Step 3: Add the chopped carrots, parsnips, and vegetable stock to the pan. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender.
- Step 4: Use a stick blender to blend the soup until smooth. Stir in the double cream and blend again briefly to combine. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Step 5: Ladle the soup into bowls and, if desired, sprinkle with finely chopped parsley before serving.
Tips & Variations
- For a dairy-free option, swap the double cream with coconut cream or a plant-based alternative.
- Add a pinch of ground cumin or smoked paprika for a subtle spice twist.
- If you prefer a chunkier texture, blend only half the soup and stir in the rest of the vegetables.
- Serve with crusty bread or a dollop of sour cream for extra richness.
Storage
Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave until hot, stirring occasionally. This soup can also be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use frozen vegetables to make this soup?
Yes, frozen carrots and parsnips can be used. Adjust the cooking time slightly, as frozen vegetables may soften faster.
Is this soup suitable for vegans?
To make it vegan, replace the double cream with a plant-based cream or coconut milk and ensure the vegetable stock contains no animal products.
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Carrot & Parsnip Soup Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This comforting Carrot & Parsnip Soup blends sweet root vegetables with fragrant thyme and garlic for a smooth, creamy bowl perfect for chilly days. Simmered gently and finished with double cream and fresh parsley, it’s a simple yet flavorful vegetarian soup that warms from the inside out.
Ingredients
Vegetables & Herbs
- 2 onions, finely chopped
- 2 celery sticks, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, crushed
- ½ small bunch thyme, leaves picked
- 3 large carrots, peeled and roughly chopped
- 2 large parsnips, peeled and roughly chopped
- ¼ bunch parsley, finely chopped (optional)
Liquids & Fats
- ½ tbsp olive oil
- 1 litre vegetable stock
- 100ml double cream
Spices & Seasoning
- ½ tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Prepare the base: Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add finely chopped onions and celery, frying for about 10 minutes until softened, stirring occasionally. If the vegetables begin to stick or brown too much, add a small splash of water to prevent burning.
- Add aromatics: Stir in crushed garlic, thyme leaves, and ½ teaspoon black pepper. Cook for 2 more minutes to release the fragrant flavors, stirring frequently.
- Simmer the vegetables: Add the peeled and roughly chopped carrots and parsnips to the pan, followed by the vegetable stock. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce to a simmer. Cook for 20 minutes or until all vegetables are tender, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking.
- Blend the soup: Using a stick blender, carefully blend the soup directly in the saucepan until completely smooth and creamy. Add the double cream and blend again to fully incorporate, creating a luscious texture.
- Season and serve: Taste the soup and adjust seasoning if necessary. Ladle into bowls and garnish with finely chopped parsley, if desired. Serve warm for a hearty and satisfying meal.
Notes
- If you prefer a lighter version, substitute double cream with coconut milk or omit it entirely for a dairy-free option.
- For added texture, garnish with toasted nuts or seeds.
- This soup can be made ahead and reheated gently on the stovetop, adding a little extra stock if it thickens too much.
- Leftovers freeze well for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: European
Keywords: carrot soup, parsnip soup, creamy vegetable soup, vegetarian soup, root vegetable soup

