Cream Of Kale Soup Recipe

Kale, the leafy green powerhouse that often finds itself tucked into smoothies or salads, is capable of much more than just being an extra ingredient in your daily health routine. When you transform kale into a creamy, comforting soup, it becomes a deliciously rich and satisfying dish perfect for cozy evenings. Cream of Kale Soup combines the earthy, slightly bitter notes of kale with the velvety smoothness of cream, making it a comforting, nutrient-packed meal that’s as good for your soul as it is for your body.

This soup is not just a fantastic way to enjoy kale, but it’s also versatile and easy to make. Whether you’re looking for something quick to whip up for dinner or a dish to impress your guests, this recipe has you covered. What’s more, it’s the perfect way to get your greens in, without feeling like you’re eating something that’s healthy just because. The creaminess balances out the kale’s strong flavor, and with a few carefully selected ingredients, you can turn a humble bunch of kale into a dish that’s worthy of a spot at your table.

So let’s dive into how you can make this incredibly satisfying Cream of Kale Soup at home!

Cream Of Kale Soup Recipe

When it comes to soup, simplicity and depth of flavor go hand-in-hand. This Cream of Kale Soup brings together fresh kale, savory broth, and rich cream, creating a perfect balance of textures and flavors that will make this dish a regular in your rotation. This recipe is simple, but it doesn’t skimp on taste or nutrients.

Ingredients Needed

Before you dive into the cooking process, gather the following ingredients:

• Kale – 1 bunch of fresh kale, washed and chopped (you can use curly kale or lacinato kale, depending on what you prefer)
• Olive oil – 2 tablespoons (for sautéing)
• Yellow onion – 1 medium, diced (adds a savory sweetness to the soup)
• Garlic – 3 cloves, minced (to build that aromatic base)
• Carrot – 1 medium, peeled and sliced (adds subtle sweetness and color)
• Celery – 2 stalks, chopped (adds freshness and a slight crunch)
• Vegetable broth – 4 cups (or chicken broth if you’re not strictly vegetarian)
• Potatoes – 2 medium, peeled and diced (this helps thicken the soup and adds a creamy texture)
• Heavy cream – 1 cup (for that lush, creamy consistency)
• Salt and pepper – to taste (for seasoning)
• Crushed red pepper flakes – ½ teaspoon (optional, for a little heat)
• Lemon juice – 1 tablespoon (for a bright finish)

Cooking Instructions

The method is straightforward but delivers big on flavor. Here’s how you can make your Cream of Kale Soup:

1. Prep The Vegetables

   • Wash and chop the kale, removing the tough stems.
   • Peel and chop the carrots and potatoes, and dice the onion and celery. Mince the garlic.

2. Sauté The Aromatics

   • Heat olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat.
   • Add the diced onions, celery, and carrots. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, until softened and fragrant.
   • Add the minced garlic and sauté for another 1-2 minutes, until aromatic but not burned.

3. Add The Broth And Potatoes

   • Pour in the vegetable broth and add the diced potatoes. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for about 10-12 minutes, or until the potatoes are soft and tender.

4. Add The Kale

   • Stir in the chopped kale and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, until the kale wilts down and becomes tender.

5. Blend The Soup

   • Once all the vegetables are cooked, use an immersion blender to blend the soup to your desired consistency. If you prefer a smooth, velvety texture, blend it until completely creamy.
   • If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can transfer the soup in batches to a regular blender. Just be careful not to burn yourself!

6. Add Cream And Season

   • Stir in the heavy cream to make the soup rich and creamy.
   • Season with salt, pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes to taste. Add a splash of lemon juice for brightness and balance.

7. Simmer And Serve

   • Let the soup simmer on low for an additional 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
   • Ladle the soup into bowls and serve warm.

Ingredient Insights

Here’s why each ingredient plays a crucial role in making this soup a standout:

• Kale: The star of the show, kale brings fiber, vitamins A, C, and K, as well as a host of antioxidants to the table. It’s hearty and robust, making it the perfect leafy green for a soup that needs to hold its own.
• Onion and Garlic: These form the aromatic foundation of the soup. The natural sweetness from the onions and the pungency of the garlic deepen the flavor of the broth.
• Carrots and Celery: These veggies contribute both sweetness and earthiness to the soup. They also add texture, balancing out the creaminess of the potatoes and cream.
• Potatoes: Potatoes are the secret to getting that thick, smooth texture in your soup. They act as a natural thickening agent, giving the soup a luscious body without needing a roux or flour.
• Heavy Cream: This ingredient takes the soup from good to great by adding richness and creating a smooth, indulgent texture. It tempers the slight bitterness of the kale while making every spoonful feel like a luxurious treat.

Expert Tips

To elevate your Cream of Kale Soup even further, consider these expert tips:

• Use a mix of broths: If you want a deeper, richer flavor, use half vegetable broth and half chicken broth. The chicken broth can add more umami without overpowering the vegetables.
• Adjust the thickness: If you prefer a thinner soup, add extra broth. If you like it thick and hearty, blend less or add more potatoes to increase the body.
• Lemon is key: Don’t skip the splash of lemon juice at the end. It’s a game-changer for balancing the rich, creamy flavors and gives a fresh lift to the soup.
• Herb variations: If you have fresh herbs on hand, try adding thyme, rosemary, or even a sprig of bay leaf while the soup simmers. Just be sure to remove any whole herbs before blending.
• Top it off: Add a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese or a drizzle of olive oil on top before serving for an extra layer of flavor.

Recipe Variations

The beauty of Cream of Kale Soup is how easily you can adapt it to suit different tastes or dietary preferences. Here are a few variations:

• Vegan Version: Replace heavy cream with coconut cream or a vegan cashew cream. Use vegetable broth to keep it plant-based.
• Cheesy Version: Stir in some grated Parmesan or Gruyère cheese for a cheesy twist. This makes the soup even more decadent.
• Spicy Version: Kick it up a notch by adding a chopped chili pepper, a dash of cayenne, or a teaspoon of smoked paprika.
• With Croutons: For extra crunch, top your soup with homemade croutons or toasted pine nuts.
• With Bacon: If you’re not vegan, crispy bacon crumbles on top can add an irresistible savory flavor and texture contrast.

Final Words

This Cream of Kale Soup is an ideal dish for those who want to indulge in something comforting yet health-conscious. The balance of textures from the soft potatoes, tender kale, and creamy base makes each spoonful feel like a little piece of heaven. It’s a versatile, customizable recipe that can suit various dietary needs, and it’s packed with flavor despite its simplicity. Whether served as a light lunch or a hearty dinner, it’s bound to be a crowd-pleaser.