Creamy Watercress Delight

Ingredients

• 2 bunches of fresh watercress (200g / 7oz) 2 bunches of fresh watercress (200g / 7oz)
• 1 tablespoon butter (15g) 1 tablespoon butter (15g)
• 1 medium onion, chopped 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 4 cups (950ml) vegetable broth 4 cups (950ml) vegetable broth
• 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
• 1 teaspoon fresh parsley, chopped 1 teaspoon fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 250 kcal / 1046 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 20g, 12g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 15g, 5g
• Protein: 4g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until translucent.
2. 2.
   Add the watercress, thyme leaves, and parsley to the pot. Stir well and cook for 2 minutes until the watercress wilts.
3. 3.
   Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 15 minutes.
4. 4.
   Remove the pot from heat and allow the soup to cool slightly. Using an immersion blender or a regular blender, puree the soup until smooth.
5. 5.
   Return the soup to the pot and stir in the heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. 6.
   Place the pot back on the stove and heat the soup over low heat until warmed through, but avoid boiling.
7. 7.
   Serve the Cream of Watercress Soup hot, garnished with a sprig of fresh watercress or a dollop of cream.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Watercress — Ensure that the watercress is fresh and vibrant green. Trim the tough stems before using in the soup for a smoother texture.

Tips & Tricks

• For a lighter version, substitute half of the heavy cream with milk or use a lighter cream alternative.
• Add a squeeze of lemon juice before serving to enhance the freshness of the watercress.
• Garnish with croutons or crispy bacon for added texture and flavor.
• Adjust the consistency by adding more vegetable broth if desired.
• To make it more filling, serve the soup with a side of crusty bread or a grilled cheese sandwich.

Serving advice

Serve the Cream of Watercress Soup as a starter for a dinner party or as a light lunch. Pair it with a fresh salad or a side of crusty bread for a complete meal.

Presentation advice

Present the Cream of Watercress Soup in elegant soup bowls or small teacups. Garnish each serving with a sprig of fresh watercress or a swirl of cream for an attractive presentation.