Berry Soup
Berry soup is a delightful dish that celebrates the natural sweetness and tanginess of fresh berries. This vibrant soup is popular in Scandinavian and Eastern European cuisines, often served chilled as a refreshing summer treat or as a light dessert.
Packed with antioxidants, vitamins, and bold flavors, berry soup is not only delicious but also nutritious. Its versatility allows for customization with various berries and garnishes, making it a crowd-pleaser at any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a colorful starter or a fruity finish to a meal, berry soup is a perfect choice.
Ingredients
For the Soup:
3 cups mixed berries (e.g., strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries, fresh or frozen)
3 cups water
½ cup sugar (adjust to taste)
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 cinnamon stick
1 tsp vanilla extract
2 tbsp cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
¼ cup cold water (for mixing cornstarch)
For Garnish:
Fresh mint leaves
Whipped cream or yogurt
Additional fresh berries
How to Make Berry Soup
Step 1: Prepare the Berries
If using fresh berries, rinse them thoroughly and remove any stems or leaves.
For frozen berries, thaw slightly before use.
Step 2: Cook the Base
In a medium-sized pot, combine the berries, water, sugar, lemon juice, and cinnamon stick.
Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally to dissolve the sugar.
Step 3: Simmer the Flavors
Reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the berries to soften and release their juices.
Stir in the vanilla extract and remove the cinnamon stick.
Step 4: Blend the Soup
Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth, or leave it slightly chunky for texture. (Alternatively, transfer the mixture to a blender and blend in batches. Allow it to cool slightly before blending.)
Step 5: Thicken the Soup (Optional)
If you prefer a thicker consistency, mix the cornstarch with ¼ cup cold water to create a slurry.
Gradually add the slurry to the simmering soup, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Cook for another 2–3 minutes until the soup thickens slightly.
Step 6: Chill and Serve
Let the soup cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until chilled.
Serve the berry soup in bowls or glasses, garnished with fresh mint, whipped cream, yogurt, or additional berries.
Chef’s Notes
Berry Selection: Use a mix of sweet and tart berries for a balanced flavor. You can also focus on a single type of berry for a more distinct taste.
Sweetness: Adjust the sugar based on the natural sweetness of the berries. Honey or maple syrup can be used as alternatives.
Spice Variations: Add a pinch of cardamom or ginger for a unique flavor twist.
Serving Options: Serve this soup warm in colder months for a comforting treat, paired with shortbread or biscotti.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
Calories: 110
Protein: 1g
Carbohydrates: 27g
Fat: 0.5g
Fiber: 4g
Vitamin C: 35% of the Daily Value
Potassium: 6% of the Daily Value
(Note: Nutritional values are approximate and depend on portion sizes and specific ingredients used.)
Berry soup is a feast for both the eyes and the palate, offering a burst of fruity flavors in every spoonful. Whether you enjoy it as a starter, dessert, or snack, this colorful and nutritious dish is sure to impress. Experiment with different berry combinations and garnishes to create your signature version. Bon appétit!