Ingredients with Measurements:
- 6 slices of bacon, chopped
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 4 cups of chicken broth
- 4 cups of fresh spinach leaves, chopped
- 1 cup of heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
Special equipment needed:
- Large pot
- Immersion blender or regular blender
Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a large pot, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon from the pot and set it aside, leaving the bacon grease in the pot.
2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot and cook until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil.
4. Add the chopped spinach leaves to the pot and cook until wilted, about 3 minutes.
5. Using an immersion blender or regular blender, puree the soup until smooth.
6. Return the soup to the pot and stir in the heavy cream.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve the soup hot, topped with the crispy bacon.
- Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 20 minutes
Temperature:
- Medium heat
Serving size:
- 4 servings
Nutritional information:
- Calories per serving: 350
- Total fat: 28g
- Total carbohydrates: 10g
- Protein: 14g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Turkey bacon can be used instead of regular bacon.
- Vegetable broth can be used instead of chicken broth.
- Half-and-half can be used instead of heavy cream.
Variations:
- Add diced potatoes to the soup for a heartier version.
- Use kale instead of spinach for a different flavor.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
Tips and tricks:
- Be sure to chop the spinach leaves finely to ensure they blend smoothly into the soup.
- If using a regular blender, be sure to blend the soup in batches and let it cool slightly before blending to avoid any accidents.
- For a creamier soup, add more heavy cream.
Storage instructions:
- Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
- Reheat the soup in a pot over medium heat until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve the soup in individual bowls with a sprinkle of chopped bacon on top.
Garnishes:
- Chopped fresh parsley or chives can be used as a garnish.
Pairings:
- Serve the soup with a crusty bread or a side salad.
Suggested side dishes:
- Roasted vegetables or a grilled cheese sandwich would pair well with this soup.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the soup is too thick, add more chicken broth or heavy cream to thin it out.
Food safety advice:
- Be sure to cook the bacon thoroughly to avoid any foodborne illnesses.
Food history:
- Creamy spinach soup has been a popular dish in European cuisine for centuries.
Flavor profiles:
- Creamy, savory, and slightly smoky from the bacon.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve the soup as a starter or as a light lunch.
Related Categories
Cooking Method: N/A
Course Type: N/A
Dietary: N/A
Ingredient: N/A
Meal type: N/A
Occassion: N/A
Region: N/A