It has been sooo cold here lately, and I've been craving something nourishing and warming to the heart and soul. What came to mind? Root Soup of course!
My family gives me a funny look when I mention this, but I think they're getting used to my kitchen concoctions by now. Every year when I feel inclined, I make a version of this soup, originally found in one of my seasonal recipe books "Witch in the Kitchen" (how fitting) by author Cait Johnson.
I love to visit my favorite local grocery that carries organic produce, choosing what will go in my root soup. This one is such a nourishing infusion, and the fun thing about this recipe is that the beets turn it a lovely magenta color-- a needed color bolt around this time of year.
Anyhow, here is the "Root Soup" recipe in case you wish to try it. You heat up your olive oil or butter first, add the onion and garlic, saute until soft, then add the broth, and other ingredients, bring to boil and then simmer for about an hour. You can of course improvise on the ingredients as you like. I will often add turnips to mine, and this year will use scallions in lieu of the onion. It's fun, earthy and warming! A nice glass of red wine and some crusty bread would go great with this. Here's to warm bones and kitchen witchery!
"Root Soup"
2 T olive oil
1 diced onion
2 minced garlic cloves
6 cups vegetable broth
3 cups diced fresh beets
1 medium diced potato
1/2 cup diced carrot
1/2 cup diced parsnips
1/2 t dried thyme
1/2 t grated nutmeg
1/2 t sea salt
Ground black pepper to taste
Enjoy!
