Spanish Almond Soup

Ingredients

• 1 cup (120g) almonds, blanched and peeled 1 cup (120g) almonds, blanched and peeled
• 2 slices of day-old bread, crust removed 2 slices of day-old bread, crust removed
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cups (950ml) vegetable broth 4 cups (950ml) vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste
• Toasted almonds, for garnish Toasted almonds, for garnish
• Extra virgin olive oil, for drizzling Extra virgin olive oil, for drizzling

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 320 kcal / 1340 KJ
• Fat: 24g (Saturated Fat: 2g)
• Carbohydrates: 20g (Sugars: 2g)
• Protein: 10g
• Fiber: 5g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a blender or food processor, combine the almonds, bread, garlic, and olive oil. Blend until you have a smooth paste.
2. 2.
   In a large pot, heat the almond paste over medium heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly.
3. 3.
   Add the vegetable broth and smoked paprika to the pot. Stir well to combine.
4. 4.
   Bring the soup to a simmer and let it cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. 5.
   Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. 6.
   Remove the soup from heat and let it cool slightly.
7. 7.
   Using a blender or immersion blender, puree the soup until smooth and creamy.
8. 8.
   Return the soup to the pot and reheat gently if needed.
9. 9.
   Serve the Spanish Almond Soup hot, garnished with toasted almonds and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Almonds — Make sure to blanch and peel the almonds before using them in the recipe to achieve a smooth texture in the soup.

Tips & Tricks

• For a creamier texture, you can strain the soup through a fine-mesh sieve after blending.
• Adjust the amount of smoked paprika according to your preference for smokiness.
• Serve the soup with a side of crusty bread for a complete meal.

Serving advice

Serve the Spanish Almond Soup hot in individual bowls. Garnish each bowl with a sprinkle of toasted almonds and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil. Pair it with a side of crusty bread for a satisfying and comforting meal.

Presentation advice

To enhance the presentation, you can sprinkle a pinch of smoked paprika on top of the soup just before serving. Serve the soup in colorful ceramic bowls to add a vibrant touch to the table.