Allow the verdant charms of an old-fashioned herb, lovage, to weave their magic into a delectable symphony of flavors in this Lovage Soup. Crafted by culinary virtuoso Sophie Grigson, this recipe transforms humble ingredients into a velvety delight that’s both soothing and indulgent. If you’re not already growing lovage in your garden, seek it out at organic markets or through gardening friends, and let this herbaceous treasure elevate your culinary repertoire.
SERVES 4–6
PREP 10 MIN
COOK 30 MIN
FREEZE UP TO 3 MONTHS
BEFORE CREAM IS ADDED
INGREDIENTS:
- 4 tbsp (60g) butter
- 1 onion, chopped
- 9–10oz (250–300g) starchy potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 large carrot, diced
- A large handful of fresh lovage leaves
- 1¼ quarts (1¼ liters) chicken or vegetable stock
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
- 6 tbsp (90ml) heavy cream
- Cayenne pepper, to serve
INSTRUCTIONS:
- Melodic Beginnings: Begin by melting the butter in a large pan, where the symphony of flavors will come to life. Add the onion, starchy potatoes, diced carrot, and a generous handful of fresh lovage leaves. Stir these ingredients together, then cover the pan and let them harmonize over low heat for about 10 minutes.
- A Culinary Crescendo: As the vegetables soften and release their aromas, pour in the chicken or vegetable stock, embracing them with the promise of a rich and flavorful outcome. Sprinkle a dash of salt and freshly ground black pepper to add depth to the composition. Allow this symphony to reach a crescendo by bringing the mixture to a gentle boil, then lowering the heat to a simmer. Let it simmer for 15 minutes, allowing the vegetables to reach a state of tender perfection.
- Harmonizing the Notes: Once the vegetables have sung their melody and reached a harmonious tenderness, allow the symphony to cool slightly. Transport this melodic blend to a blender, where the flavors will fuse into a smooth and velvety texture. If you prefer an even smoother composition, let the soup pass through the sieve, refining its texture like the softest of melodies.
- Taste and Texture Tune-up: Embrace the conductor’s role as you taste and adjust the seasoning, allowing the flavors to resonate perfectly on your palate. When the soup is ready to grace the table once more, gently reheat it. At this point, let the heavy cream join the ensemble, enriching the composition with its luxurious texture.
- The Grand Finale: As the final curtain call approaches, garnish the symphony with a flourish of cayenne pepper, a touch that adds a gentle heat to the composition. As you serve this symphonic creation, be prepared for a culinary experience that resonates on all levels, from flavor to texture to visual appeal.
Sophie Grigson’s Lovage Soup is a testament to the magic that can be woven from simple, fresh ingredients. The harmonious interplay of lovage, starchy potatoes, carrots, and cream creates a velvety composition that dances on your palate. Just as a symphony leaves a lingering melody, this soup will leave you with a lasting impression of flavors that resonate long after the last spoonful has been savored.
