Turnip Soup is a comforting and wholesome dish that celebrates the humble yet nutritious turnip. This soup is a testament to how simple ingredients can be transformed into a flavorful and satisfying meal. It’s a classic example of traditional European cooking that emphasizes the use of root vegetables like turnips.
The history of Turnip Soup can be traced back to the agricultural roots of many European countries, where turnips were a staple crop due to their hardiness and ability to grow in a variety of climates. Over time, turnips became an essential part of the European diet, and creative cooks found ways to incorporate them into various dishes.
Turnip soup was likely born out of the need to create hearty and nourishing meals during the colder months. By combining turnips with simple seasonings and stock, cooks could produce a flavorful and filling soup that provided warmth and sustenance.
Today, Turnip Soup remains a comforting dish that pays homage to traditional European cuisine and the resourcefulness of generations past. It’s a reminder of how basic ingredients can be transformed into something truly delicious.
INGREDIENTS
- 2 pounds of peeled turnips, cut into small squares
- 4 tablespoons Crisco (or vegetable shortening)
- Pinch of salt
- 1 tablespoon flour
- 3 pints of stock (vegetable or chicken)
- Seasoning to taste
- 1 cup of good cream
INSTRUCTIONS
- Prepare the Turnips:
- Peel the turnips and cut them into small squares.
- Sauté the Turnips:
- In a stewpan, melt 4 tablespoons of Crisco over medium heat.
- Add the diced turnips to the melted Crisco.
- Stir the turnips over a quick fire for a few minutes.
- Add Flour and Stock:
- Sprinkle a pinch of salt over the sautéed turnips.
- Add 1 tablespoon of flour and stir to coat the turnips evenly.
- Pour in 3 pints of stock (vegetable or chicken) and mix well.
- Simmer the Soup:
- Allow the soup to simmer gently for approximately 1.5 hours. This will soften the turnips and allow their flavors to meld with the stock.
- Blend and Strain:
- After simmering, pass the entire mixture through a sieve or use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth.
- Season and Reheat:
- Return the pureed soup to the stewpan.
- Add seasoning to taste, adjusting the salt and any other seasonings as desired.
- Finish with Cream:
- Just before serving, pour in 1 cup of good cream and stir well.
- Bring the soup to a boil to heat the cream.
- Serve:
- Serve the Turnip Soup hot and enjoy its comforting and satisfying flavors.
Turnip Soup is a testament to the versatility of turnips and the art of turning simple ingredients into a delicious meal. Whether served as a comforting winter soup or as a celebration of traditional European cuisine, it’s a dish that continues to warm hearts and stomachs alike.
