Mary Berry’s Spiced Autumn Soup is a warming, flavorful dish that perfectly captures the essence of the fall season. Known for her expertise in crafting comforting yet sophisticated recipes, Mary Berry combines rich, seasonal ingredients with an aromatic blend of spices to create a soup that’s both hearty and nourishing. This soup is a celebration of autumn’s bounty, featuring a blend of root vegetables such as squash, carrots, and parsnips, all simmered together to create a silky, velvety texture. The spices, often including cinnamon, nutmeg, and coriander, add a warming depth to the soup, making it ideal for cooler weather.
What makes this recipe stand out is how it balances the natural sweetness of the vegetables with the heat and complexity of the spices, offering a full-bodied and deeply satisfying dish. Whether served as a starter for a dinner party or as a cozy meal on a chilly evening, Mary Berry’s Spiced Autumn Soup is an absolute crowd-pleaser. Its vibrant flavors and nourishing ingredients make it a perfect way to embrace the flavors of the season while enjoying something that feels both indulgent and healthy.
Mary Berry’s Spiced Autumn Soup Recipe
Ingredients Needed
To make Mary Berry’s Spiced Autumn Soup, you’ll need the following ingredients. Each one plays a role in bringing both texture and flavor to this fall-inspired dish:
- 1 tbsp olive oil – Used to sauté the vegetables at the beginning, creating a rich base for the soup.
- 1 onion (diced) – Adds a mild sweetness and depth of flavor that balances the earthy root vegetables.
- 2 cloves garlic (minced) – A classic aromatic that adds fragrance and a subtle punch to the dish.
- 1 large butternut squash (peeled, deseeded, and chopped into chunks) – The star of the soup, this vegetable lends both sweetness and a creamy texture when cooked.
- 2 carrots (peeled and chopped) – Adds a natural sweetness and extra body to the soup.
- 2 parsnips (peeled and chopped) – Offers a slightly nutty, earthy flavor that enhances the overall richness of the soup.
- 4 cups vegetable stock – The base liquid that helps to bring everything together, creating the perfect consistency.
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon – A signature spice in autumn recipes, providing a warm, sweetly aromatic flavor.
- ½ tsp ground nutmeg – Adds a warm, slightly sweet, and spicy edge to the soup.
- 1 tsp ground coriander – Brings a citrusy, slightly peppery flavor that complements the sweetness of the vegetables.
- Salt and pepper to taste – Essential seasonings to balance the flavors and elevate the dish.
- Optional garnish – A swirl of cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley can be added for extra flavor and visual appeal.
These simple, wholesome ingredients come together to create a dish that is both comforting and sophisticated.
Equipment Needed
To prepare Mary Berry’s Spiced Autumn Soup, you don’t need any complex gadgets or specialty equipment. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Large soup pot or Dutch oven – A heavy-bottomed pot is ideal for evenly cooking the vegetables and creating a rich base for the soup.
- Sharp knife – To chop the vegetables with ease and precision.
- Chopping board – Essential for prepping all your vegetables.
- Wooden spoon – For stirring the vegetables as they sauté and for mixing the soup ingredients together.
- Blender or immersion blender – A blender is crucial for pureeing the soup to a smooth, velvety texture. An immersion blender works well for convenience and saving on cleanup.
- Measuring spoons – To ensure your spices are added in the perfect amounts.
This minimalist list of equipment allows the ingredients and the techniques to take center stage, making the process of creating this soup simple and enjoyable.
Instructions To Make Mary Berry’s Spiced Autumn Soup
Making Mary Berry’s Spiced Autumn Soup is straightforward and easy to follow. Here’s how to create this warming dish:
- Prepare the vegetables: Start by peeling, deseeding, and chopping the butternut squash into chunks. Peel and chop the carrots and parsnips as well. Dice the onion and mince the garlic. Having everything prepped and ready to go will make the cooking process much smoother.
- Sauté the aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large soup pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for about 5 minutes, or until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
- Cook the vegetables: Once the onion and garlic are softened, add the chopped butternut squash, carrots, and parsnips to the pot. Stir everything together to coat the vegetables in the oil and aromatics. Let them cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add the spices: Sprinkle in the cinnamon, nutmeg, and ground coriander. Stir well to combine, allowing the spices to bloom and coat the vegetables, filling the kitchen with their comforting aromas.
- Add the stock: Pour in the vegetable stock, making sure the vegetables are just covered by the liquid. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 25-30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and easily pierced with a fork.
- Blend the soup: Once the vegetables are tender, use an immersion blender to carefully blend the soup until smooth and creamy. If using a traditional blender, let the soup cool slightly before transferring it in batches to blend. Be sure to blend until you reach a velvety, smooth consistency.
- Season and serve: Taste the soup and season with salt and pepper to your liking. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with a swirl of cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs, if desired. Serve hot with crusty bread or a side salad.
Enjoy the warming, spiced flavors of this seasonal soup!
Tips And Tricks
- Adjust the spice level: If you prefer a stronger spice profile, feel free to add more cinnamon, nutmeg, or coriander. A pinch of chili flakes or ground ginger could also give the soup an added kick.
- Make it creamy: For an extra creamy version, add a splash of cream or coconut milk during the blending stage. This will enrich the texture and add a layer of indulgence.
- Roast the vegetables: If you want to elevate the flavors even further, try roasting the butternut squash, carrots, and parsnips before adding them to the pot. Roasting will bring out their natural sweetness and deepen the flavor of the soup.
- Add protein: To make the soup more filling, you can add cooked lentils, chickpeas, or shredded chicken. These additions can help make the soup a complete meal.
- Storage: This soup keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It also freezes beautifully, so feel free to make a large batch and store some for later.
- Serving suggestion: Pair this soup with a slice of toasted sourdough or a crunchy baguette. The bread will complement the creamy texture of the soup and make for a comforting meal.
Mary Berry’s Spiced Autumn Soup is the perfect dish to embrace the season’s flavors. With its comforting blend of root vegetables, warming spices, and silky texture, this soup provides the perfect balance of sweetness and spice. It’s incredibly versatile, offering opportunities for customization with different spices, garnishes, and additions, while still staying true to its autumnal roots. Whether you’re looking for a cozy meal for yourself or a show-stopping starter for a gathering, this soup is a delicious and nourishing choice. Plus, with simple ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, it’s a recipe anyone can master. Enjoy this dish as a seasonal treat or as a year-round comfort food.
Easy Recipe Variations For Mary Berry’s Spiced Autumn Soup
Mary Berry’s Spiced Autumn Soup is a warm, comforting dish that captures the essence of autumn with its blend of hearty vegetables and aromatic spices. While the original recipe itself is delightful, there are countless variations you can make to tailor it to your preferences or to accommodate the ingredients you have on hand. Here are a few easy ways to mix it up:
1. Change The Base Vegetables
- Butternut Squash: If you love the sweetness of autumn, swap in butternut squash for a richer, creamier texture. Roasting it first will bring out the natural sugars and deepen the flavor.
- Carrots and Sweet Potatoes: For a more robust and naturally sweet flavor, try adding more carrots or sweet potatoes. Both bring out a lovely sweetness when simmered, and when pureed, they create a smooth, velvety soup base.
- Pumpkin: For a classic autumn twist, using pumpkin instead of regular squash or carrots adds a rustic, slightly nutty flavor that enhances the spiced profile of the soup.
2. Spices And Herbs Twist
- Add a Touch of Ginger: While the recipe might already have cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove, a bit of grated fresh ginger can really elevate the warmth and zest. Ginger brings a subtle heat that pairs wonderfully with the sweet vegetables.
- Curry Powder: For an unexpected yet comforting kick, a spoonful of mild curry powder or garam masala can add a depth of flavor. This adds a hint of exotic spice that gives the soup a whole new character.
- Herbs: While thyme is the classic herb in many autumn soups, experimenting with sage or rosemary can provide an earthier, pine-like fragrance. Add a sprig of fresh rosemary towards the end of cooking for a fragrant infusion.
3. Creaminess Variations
- Coconut Milk: For a dairy-free alternative, replace cream or milk with coconut milk. This will give the soup a subtle tropical sweetness that pairs well with the spices. It also makes the soup wonderfully smooth and velvety.
- Crème Fraîche or Greek Yogurt: If you prefer to keep it creamy but don’t want to go full-on heavy cream, a dollop of crème fraîche or Greek yogurt can create a tangy richness without overwhelming the soup’s lighter elements. The tanginess will balance out the sweetness of the vegetables.
- Cashew Cream: For a plant-based creamy option, blend soaked cashews with water to make a smooth cashew cream. This will provide a rich and luxurious texture without any dairy.
4. Boosting The Protein
- Lentils: To add more protein and a bit of texture, you can toss in a handful of red or green lentils. These will cook down and dissolve into the soup, making it more hearty without altering the flavor too much.
- Chickpeas: For a chunky element and extra protein, adding cooked chickpeas can create a satisfying bite. Toss them in towards the end of cooking so they don’t lose their texture.
5. Add A Zingy Topping
- Roasted Seeds: A simple sprinkle of roasted sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, or even spiced almonds can add a crunchy contrast to the smooth soup.
- Crispy Bacon or Chorizo: For a more savory, meaty twist, top the soup with crispy bacon or crumbled chorizo. The saltiness and richness of the bacon create a perfect balance to the spiced soup.
- Fresh Herb Garnish: A sprinkle of fresh parsley, dill, or cilantro can add a burst of freshness and color to the soup, enhancing its overall appearance and flavor.
By playing with these variations, you can create a unique version of Mary Berry’s Spiced Autumn Soup each time you make it, keeping it exciting while retaining the comforting warmth that the dish brings.
Storing Leftovers
If you’ve made a big batch of Mary Berry’s Spiced Autumn Soup and have leftovers, storing them properly will ensure that they maintain their delicious flavor and texture. Here’s how to do it:
1. Cool The Soup Quickly
After cooking, allow the soup to cool down to room temperature. To speed up the cooling process, you can place the pot in a sink filled with ice water (just be careful not to get water in the soup). This is important because hot food should not be left at room temperature for long periods to avoid bacterial growth.
2. Storing In The Refrigerator
- Container Choice: Store the cooled soup in an airtight container. Glass containers or BPA-free plastic containers with tight-fitting lids are ideal, as they prevent air from getting in, which helps preserve the flavor and prevent spoilage.
- Shelf Life: Properly stored in the fridge, the soup will last for about 3-4 days. After this, the flavors can begin to degrade, and the soup may lose its optimal texture.
3. Freezing Leftovers
- Freezing for Long-Term Storage: If you don’t think you’ll eat all the leftovers in the next few days, freezing is a great option. Pour the cooled soup into freezer-safe containers, leaving about an inch of space at the top for expansion. Alternatively, you can freeze the soup in freezer bags. Lay the bags flat in the freezer for easy storage and quicker thawing.
- Freezer Life: Mary Berry’s Spiced Autumn Soup can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To thaw, simply transfer it to the fridge the night before or reheat directly from frozen on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally.
4. Reheating The Soup
When reheating, always ensure that the soup is piping hot before serving. If the soup is too thick after storing, you can thin it out by adding a bit of water, broth, or a splash of milk to reach the desired consistency.
By storing your leftovers properly, you can enjoy the flavors of your autumn soup for days or even weeks after you’ve made it.
What To Eat With Mary Berry’s Spiced Autumn Soup?
While Mary Berry’s Spiced Autumn Soup is delicious on its own, pairing it with complementary sides can make for a truly satisfying meal. Here are some great options to consider:
1. Warm, Crusty Bread
- Sourdough: A slice of tangy sourdough bread is an excellent choice. The crusty exterior and soft, airy interior soak up the soup perfectly.
- Focaccia: If you prefer something a bit more flavorful, try pairing the soup with a rosemary-infused focaccia. Its herb-infused dough and slight crunch will add a nice contrast to the velvety soup.
2. Salads
- Roasted Beetroot Salad: A roasted beetroot salad with goat cheese, walnuts, and a balsamic glaze offers an earthy, tangy complement to the sweet, spiced flavors of the soup.
- Autumn Slaw: A crisp slaw made from shredded cabbage, apples, and a light mustard dressing can balance out the warmth of the soup with a touch of freshness.
3. Cheese Pairings
- Grilled Cheese Sandwiches: For a classic combination, a grilled cheese sandwich on buttery toast is a perfect side to dunk into the soup. Choose a sharp cheddar or Gruyère for added flavor.
- Cheese Platter: For something a little more sophisticated, serve the soup with a selection of cheeses like Brie, Stilton, or a mild goat cheese.
4. Protein Additions
- Roast Chicken: A light roast chicken with simple seasonings works wonderfully with the soup. Its savory flavor complements the richness of the soup without overwhelming it.
- Quinoa or Brown Rice: For a more filling, plant-based pairing, serve the soup with a side of quinoa or brown rice. These grains will absorb the soup’s flavors and add a chewy texture to the dish.
5. Pickles And Chutneys
- Spiced Apple Chutney: A sweet-spicy chutney, like apple or mango, can bring an exciting contrast of flavors. The tanginess from the chutney pairs well with the soup’s earthy spices.
- Pickled Vegetables: A few pickled onions or gherkins provide an acidic balance to the naturally sweet soup, cutting through the richness.
By pairing Mary Berry’s Spiced Autumn Soup with any of these sides, you can easily elevate the meal into something hearty, well-rounded, and entirely satisfying.
Conclusion
Mary Berry’s Spiced Autumn Soup is a true celebration of the season’s best flavors-earthy vegetables, warming spices, and a touch of sweetness. It’s a flexible recipe that allows for plenty of variations, ensuring that you can customize it to your taste or dietary needs. Whether you’re experimenting with different vegetables, adjusting the level of spiciness, or adding creamy elements, the result is always a comforting, soul-warming dish that’s perfect for chilly days.
With thoughtful storage techniques, you can extend the enjoyment of this soup, making it an easy and convenient meal for later. Plus, pairing it with warm bread, fresh salads, or a slice of cheese can take it from simple to sensational. So, whether you’re enjoying it solo or with friends and family, Mary Berry’s Spiced Autumn Soup is sure to become a seasonal favorite in your kitchen.
FAQs
What Ingredients Are Essential For Mary Berry’s Spiced Autumn Soup?
Mary Berry’s Spiced Autumn Soup requires a variety of seasonal vegetables to create a rich, comforting flavor. Essential ingredients include pumpkin, carrots, onions, and garlic. The soup also uses a combination of warming spices such as cumin, cinnamon, and ginger, which add depth and warmth. For a creamy texture, you will need vegetable stock and cream, with a drizzle of olive oil for sautéing. The recipe is adaptable, allowing for additional vegetables like sweet potatoes or squash.
Can I Make Mary Berry’s Spiced Autumn Soup In Advance?
Yes, Mary Berry’s Spiced Autumn Soup can be made in advance, and it often tastes even better the next day as the flavors have had time to develop. Once the soup has cooled, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Alternatively, you can freeze the soup for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply warm it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. If the soup has thickened too much after freezing, you can add a little extra stock or water to reach your desired consistency.
Can I Adjust The Spice Level In Mary Berry’s Spiced Autumn Soup?
Absolutely! Mary Berry’s Spiced Autumn Soup is flexible when it comes to the level of spices. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can reduce the amounts of cumin, cinnamon, and ginger. For those who enjoy a spicier kick, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes. Taste the soup as it cooks and adjust the seasoning accordingly to suit your personal preference. Additionally, you can balance the spices with a bit more cream or a touch of honey if you prefer a sweeter note.
