Roasted Red Pepper Soup Recipe

This Roasted Red Pepper Soup Recipe is your go-to dish for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a sophisticated gathering. The rich and creamy texture, anchored by a roux base without cream or tomatoes, showcases the pure flavor of roasted red peppers. This soup is simple to make yet delivers exceptional taste, making it a perfect choice for both weeknight meals and special events.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich Flavor: The combination of roasted red peppers, smoked paprika, and garlic creates a deep, satisfying taste.
• Easy Preparation: With straightforward steps and minimal ingredients, this recipe is accessible for cooks of all skill levels.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it warm or chilled, with croutons or fresh herbs; it’s delightful any way you choose.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with vegetables and low in calories, this soup fits well into many diets while still being delicious.
• Quick to Make: In just about an hour, you can whip up this comforting bowl of goodness.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making your Roasted Red Pepper Soup, gather your essential tools. Having everything ready will streamline the cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Baking sheet
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Stick blender (or food processor)
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for cooking the roux and simmering the soup evenly.
• Stick blender: Allows you to blend the soup directly in the pot for easy cleanup.
• Baking sheet: Ideal for roasting the red peppers evenly in the oven.

Ingredients

This roasted red pepper soup is rich and creamy with a roux base, no cream and no tomato, pure roasted red pepper flavor, simple and delicious!

• 1 pound red bell peppers (about 3-4 bell peppers – or use 4-5 red poblano peppers)
• ¼ cup vegetable oil (peanut oil is great)
• ¼ cup white flour
• 1 medium white onion (chopped (or use yellow or sweet))
• 1-2 hot red peppers (chopped – optional, to preference)
• 4 cloves garlic (chopped)
• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon cumin (or more to taste)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 cups vegetable stock (or use chicken stock)
• For Serving: Crispy croutons, red pepper flakes, sliced chilies, fresh chopped parsley, olive oil or chili oil drizzle

How to Make Roasted Red Pepper Soup Recipe

Step 1: Roast the Red Peppers

1. Set your oven to broil.
2. Slice the poblano peppers in half lengthwise and place them on a lightly oiled baking sheet, skin sides up. Alternatively, roast them on a lightly oiled grill over medium heat.
3. Broil the red peppers for 15 minutes until the skins char and blacken.
4. Remove them from the oven and transfer to a bowl. Cool slightly before peeling off the skins; discard seeds and stems.

Step 2: Prepare the Roux

1. Rough chop the roasted red peppers and set aside.
2. In a large pot over medium heat, add peanut oil.
3. Stir in white flour and cook for 8–10 minutes until it turns brown like peanut butter.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

1. Add chopped onion and optional hot peppers to the pot; cook for about 5 minutes until softened.
2. Stir in chopped roasted red peppers along with garlic, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper; cook for another minute.

Step 4: Simmer the Soup

1. Pour in vegetable stock; bring to a quick boil.
2. Reduce heat and let it simmer for 30 minutes to develop flavors.

Step 5: Blend

1. Adjust consistency by adding more stock or water if needed.
2. Use a stick blender directly in the pot or transfer to a food processor/blender in batches until smooth.

Step 6: Serve

1. Ladle into bowls.
2. Garnish with olive oil or chili oil drizzle along with crispy croutons, chili flakes, sliced chilies, or fresh parsley as desired.

Enjoy your delicious bowl of homemade Roasted Red Pepper Soup!

How to Serve Roasted Red Pepper Soup Recipe

Serving roasted red pepper soup is an opportunity to elevate your dining experience. This creamy and flavorful soup pairs well with a variety of garnishes and sides that enhance its taste.

With Crispy Croutons

• Add homemade or store-bought croutons on top for a delightful crunch that contrasts the smooth texture of the soup.

Drizzled with Olive Oil

• A drizzle of high-quality olive oil adds richness and a fruity flavor that complements the roasted peppers beautifully.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Garnish with fresh chopped parsley or basil for a pop of color and freshness, enhancing the overall flavor profile.

Spicy Chili Flakes

• For those who enjoy heat, sprinkle some chili flakes on top to give your soup an extra kick!

With Sliced Chilies

• Garnishing with sliced fresh chilies provides both visual appeal and a spicy bite if you’re looking for more intensity.

Served with Bread

• Pair your soup with crusty bread or garlic bread for dipping. This combination makes for a satisfying meal.

How to Perfect Roasted Red Pepper Soup Recipe

Creating the perfect roasted red pepper soup involves attention to detail and a few helpful tips. Follow these suggestions for an exceptional dish.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh red peppers and herbs enhance the flavors, making the soup taste vibrant and lively.
• Don’t rush the roux: Cooking the roux until it reaches a peanut butter color adds depth to the soup’s flavor. Patience is key here!
• Adjust seasoning wisely: Taste as you go! Adjust salt, pepper, and spices to suit your preferences and ensure balanced flavors.
• Blend thoroughly: Use a stick blender or blender until smooth. The texture should be silky; if it’s too thick, add more stock gradually.

Best Side Dishes for Roasted Red Pepper Soup Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your roasted red pepper soup can round out your meal beautifully. Here are some great options:

1. Grilled Cheese Sandwich: A classic pairing; crispy grilled cheese complements the creamy soup perfectly.
2. Simple Green Salad: Fresh greens dressed lightly can provide a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the soup.
3. Stuffed Bell Peppers: Use complementary flavors by stuffing bell peppers with rice, beans, or cheese as a hearty side.
4. Garlic Bread: Deliciously crispy garlic bread is perfect for dipping into your warm bowl of soup.
5. Savory Scones: Cheese or herb scones add a unique twist and pair well with the roasted flavors of the soup.
6. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized enhance both healthiness and flavor in your meal.
7. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad brings another layer of nutrition while adding texture to your dining experience.
8. Pita Chips: Crunchy pita chips are great for dipping, adding another enjoyable element to each bite of soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your roasted red pepper soup, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Skipping the roasting step: Roasting enhances the flavor of the peppers. Always roast them until charred for a rich taste.
• Not letting the roux cook properly: A properly cooked roux is essential for flavor and thickness. Cook it until it resembles peanut butter.
• Ignoring seasoning adjustments: Taste as you go! Adjust spices like cumin and salt to enhance the flavors of your soup.
• Over-blending the soup: Blending too much can create an undesirable texture. Aim for a smooth but slightly chunky consistency.
• Neglecting garnishes: Garnishes add visual appeal and extra flavor. Don’t skip them; consider using fresh herbs or croutons.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Keep your roasted red pepper soup in an airtight container.
• It will last for about 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Roasted Red Pepper Soup Recipe

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags to store portions of soup.
• The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Roasted Red Pepper Soup Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake in an oven-safe dish until heated through, about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each interval until hot.
• Stovetop: Gently reheat on medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about the roasted red pepper soup recipe.

How do I make my roasted red pepper soup spicier?

To increase the heat, add more hot red peppers during cooking or sprinkle chili flakes while serving.

Can I use other types of peppers?

Yes! While this recipe focuses on red bell and poblano peppers, you can experiment with other varieties like jalapeños or yellow bell peppers.

What can I serve with roasted red pepper soup?

This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, grilled cheese sandwiches, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Is this roasted red pepper soup recipe vegan?

Absolutely! This recipe contains no cream or animal products, making it perfect for vegan diets.

How long does it take to make this roasted red pepper soup recipe?

The total time is about 70 minutes, including preparation and cooking time.

Final Thoughts

This roasted red pepper soup recipe is not only rich and creamy but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it by adding different spices or toppings to suit your taste. Give it a try, and enjoy a comforting bowl that highlights pure roasted red pepper flavor!