Tarragon Soup

Imagine a bowl of pure comfort, brimming with the distinctive, subtle anise notes of fresh tarragon. This delightful Tarragon Soup offers a velvety texture and an incredibly aromatic flavor profile, perfect for a light lunch or an elegant starter. My unique take on Tarragon Soup transforms humble herbs into a vibrant, soul-soothing experience. This vegan Tarragon Soup celebrates fresh, bright flavors and culinary creativity in every spoonful.

Why You’ll Love This Vibrant Tarragon Soup

• Exquisite Flavor: Distinct, fresh anise notes elevate simple ingredients.

• Effortlessly Elegant: Impress your guests with minimal fuss.

• Wholesome & Vegan: A nourishing, plant-based delight for all.

• Zero Waste Friendly: Crafted to minimize food waste effectively.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Creating an exceptional Tarragon Soup starts with selecting the freshest, most vibrant ingredients. Opt for organic and local produce when possible to truly capture the essence of each component. This approach not only enhances flavor but also supports sustainable practices, aligning perfectly with our eco-conscious kitchen philosophy. Each element plays a crucial role in building the symphony of tastes in this comforting Tarragon Soup.

• 2 tablespoons olive oil: Choose a good quality extra virgin olive oil for sautéing, adding a foundational richness.
• 1 large yellow onion: Finely diced for a sweet, aromatic base.
• 3 cloves garlic: Minced, to infuse the soup with a pungent warmth.
• 2 stalks celery: Diced, providing a subtle, earthy undertone.
• 2 medium potatoes: Peeled and diced into small cubes (e.g., Yukon Gold or other waxy potatoes work best for creaminess without being too starchy).
• 4 cups vegetable broth: A high-quality, low-sodium broth ensures depth of flavor without overpowering the delicate tarragon.
• 1/2 cup dry white wine (optional): Adds a layer of sophistication and brightens the overall taste. Ensure it’s vegan-friendly if strictly avoiding animal products.
• 1/2 cup fresh tarragon leaves: Roughly chopped, this is the star of our Tarragon Soup, delivering its signature anise-like aroma. Reserve a few small sprigs for garnish.
• 1/4 cup unsweetened plant-based milk or cream: Such as oat milk, soy milk, or cashew cream, for a velvety finish and added richness to your vegan Tarragon Soup.
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper: To taste, essential for seasoning and bringing out all the flavors.
• Pinch of nutmeg (optional): A tiny hint can add a subtle warmth and complexity.
• Fresh lemon juice: A squeeze at the end brightens the entire Tarragon Soup.

Substitutions & Variations

Enhance your Tarragon Soup with roasted garlic or nutmeg for added depth. Swap potatoes for cauliflower to lighten the carb count. Add cannellini beans for extra protein and creaminess.

Lemon zest brightens it beautifully. For richness, swirl in plant-based cream. This Tarragon Soup loves healthy variations!

If you’re looking to enhance your Tarragon Soup, consider making a Creamy Green Goddess Tuna Salad Made Easy to pair alongside. The richness of the salad complements the soup beautifully, creating a well-rounded meal.

Equipment You’ll Need

You don’t need a gourmet kitchen to create this exquisite Tarragon Soup. A few basic tools will suffice, making this recipe accessible to everyone. Having the right equipment streamlines the cooking process, ensuring your Tarragon Soup comes together smoothly and efficiently.

• Large pot or Dutch oven: Essential for sautéing vegetables and simmering the soup.
• Sharp knife: For precise dicing of vegetables.
• Cutting board: A stable surface for all your chopping.
• Immersion blender or standard blender: Crucial for achieving that wonderfully creamy, smooth texture for your Tarragon Soup. An immersion blender offers convenience, allowing blending directly in the pot.
• Measuring cups and spoons: For accurate ingredient proportions.
• Ladle: For serving your delicious Tarragon Soup.
• Vegetable peeler: For easily peeling potatoes.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Creating this aromatic Tarragon Soup is a delightful journey, blending simple steps with fantastic results. Follow these clear instructions to achieve a perfectly smooth and flavorful vegan Tarragon Soup every time. Pay attention to each detail to ensure the best possible flavor and texture for your homemade Tarragon Soup.

1. Prepare Your Vegetables: Begin by washing and preparing all your vegetables. Dice the onion, mince the garlic, dice the celery, and peel and cube the potatoes. Roughly chop the fresh tarragon leaves, setting aside a few sprigs for garnish later. This mise en place ensures a smooth cooking process for your Tarragon Soup.
2. Sauté Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in your large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced onion and celery, cooking until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent browning. Next, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it. The base for your Tarragon Soup is now building its character.
3. Deglaze (Optional): If using white wine, pour it into the pot and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom with a wooden spoon. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until the alcohol mostly evaporates. This step adds a layer of depth to your Tarragon Soup.
4. Add Potatoes and Broth: Introduce the diced potatoes to the pot. Pour in the vegetable broth, ensuring the potatoes are submerged. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover the pot and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender. This tenderizes the heart of your Tarragon Soup.
5. Incorporate Tarragon: Once the potatoes are tender, remove the pot from the heat. Stir in the majority of the fresh tarragon leaves. Allowing the tarragon to steep off the heat helps preserve its delicate flavor and vibrant color in your Tarragon Soup.
6. Blend to Perfection: Using an immersion blender, carefully blend the soup directly in the pot until it reaches your desired smooth and creamy consistency. If you’re using a standard blender, work in batches, being cautious with hot liquids. Return the blended Tarragon Soup to the pot.
7. Finish and Season: Place the pot back on low heat. Stir in the plant-based milk or cream. Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. If using, add a pinch of nutmeg and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. The final touches make this Tarragon Soup sing!
8. Serve: Ladle the hot Tarragon Soup into bowls. Garnish with the reserved fresh tarragon sprigs and a drizzle of olive oil, if desired. Serve immediately and savor the rich, aromatic flavors of your homemade Tarragon Soup.

While you’re perfecting your Tarragon Soup, don’t forget about the finishing touches! A refreshing Fennel Slaw with Mint Vinaigrette can add brightness and crunch to your dining experience.

Pro Tips for Success

Achieving a truly exceptional Tarragon Soup involves a few expert tricks. These tips will help you elevate your culinary creation, ensuring maximum flavor and a perfect texture every time. Embrace these insights to make your Tarragon Soup truly memorable.

• Fresh Tarragon is Key: While dried tarragon can work in a pinch, fresh tarragon is absolutely essential for the vibrant, anise-like flavor profile that defines this Tarragon Soup. Its delicate essence shines brightest when fresh.
• Don’t Overcook the Tarragon: Add fresh tarragon towards the end of the cooking process, preferably after removing the soup from direct heat, just before blending. This prevents the herb from becoming bitter and helps retain its bright color and aromatic oils, making your Tarragon Soup incredibly fragrant.
• Blend in Batches: When using a standard blender for your Tarragon Soup, always fill it only halfway to prevent hot liquids from exploding. Hold the lid down firmly with a towel and start on low speed, gradually increasing.
• Season in Layers: Season your Tarragon Soup throughout the cooking process – lightly when sautéing vegetables, and then adjust after adding broth and again at the end. This builds flavor depth.
• Balance with Acidity: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the very end is a game-changer for this Tarragon Soup. It brightens all the flavors and provides a wonderful counterpoint to the creamy texture.
• Utilize Vegetable Scraps: For an extra anti-gaspillage touch, save your vegetable scraps (onion peels, carrot ends, celery leaves) to make your own homemade vegetable broth. This enhances the flavor of your Tarragon Soup and reduces waste.

Storage & Reheating Tips

Proper storage ensures your delicious Tarragon Soup remains fresh and flavorful for future enjoyment. These simple tips will help you preserve its quality and make reheating a breeze, allowing you to savor this comforting dish whenever a craving strikes.

• Cool Completely: Before storing, allow the Tarragon Soup to cool to room temperature. This prevents condensation and inhibits bacterial growth, maintaining freshness.
• Airtight Containers: Transfer the cooled Tarragon Soup to airtight containers. Glass containers are excellent for preserving flavor and are eco-friendly.
• Refrigeration: Store the Tarragon Soup in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The flavors often deepen beautifully overnight.
• Freezing: This Tarragon Soup freezes exceptionally well. Pour into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving a little headspace for expansion. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating on Stovetop: Gently reheat the Tarragon Soup in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Add a splash of vegetable broth or plant-based milk if it seems too thick.
• Microwave Reheating: For individual servings, reheat the Tarragon Soup in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring halfway through, until piping hot.

To enjoy your Tarragon Soup at its best, learn how to store it properly. Following some simple steps can keep it just as fresh and delicious, as outlined in our guide to Spinach Soup.

What to Serve With This Recipe

This exquisite Tarragon Soup, with its delicate flavors, pairs wonderfully with a variety of healthy and complementary sides. My aim is always to create a balanced meal, celebrating vibrant plant-based pairings that enhance, rather than overpower, the star of the show. Consider these fresh and light options to complete your culinary experience.

• Crusty Whole-Grain Bread: A warm slice of artisanal sourdough or a whole-grain baguette is perfect for dipping and soaking up every last drop of your Tarragon Soup.
• Light Green Salad: A simple mixed greens salad with a zesty lemon-tarragon vinaigrette echoes the soup’s flavors beautifully. Think tender lettuce, thinly sliced radishes, and perhaps some cucumber.
• Roasted Asparagus: Lightly roasted asparagus spears, seasoned with a sprinkle of salt and pepper, offer a delightful crunch and earthy flavor that complements the creamy Tarragon Soup.
• Garlic Crostini: Thin slices of toasted bread rubbed with garlic and drizzled with olive oil add a satisfying texture and robust flavor.
• Quinoa Salad: A vibrant quinoa salad with fresh herbs, cherry tomatoes, and a light dressing makes for a wholesome and protein-rich side dish alongside your Tarragon Soup.
• White Bean and Herb Salad: A refreshing salad featuring cannellini beans, fresh parsley, red onion, and a lemon-tarragon dressing provides an excellent plant-based protein boost.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make this Tarragon Soup gluten-free?

Absolutely! This Tarragon Soup recipe is naturally gluten-free as written. Always ensure your vegetable broth is certified gluten-free to avoid any hidden ingredients.

Most plant-based milks and creams are also gluten-free, but it’s always wise to double-check the labels, especially if you have severe sensitivities. This recipe is designed for broad dietary enjoyment.

What if I don’t have an immersion blender for my Tarragon Soup?

No problem at all! You can easily use a standard countertop blender. Just remember to work in small batches.

Allow the soup to cool slightly before transferring it to the blender to avoid pressure buildup. Blend until smooth, then return the pureed Tarragon Soup to the pot to reheat gently. Safety first with hot liquids!

Can I add other vegetables to this Tarragon Soup?

Of course! Creativity is at the heart of conscious cooking. Feel free to add other seasonal vegetables like leeks (sautéed with the onion), parsnips, or even a handful of spinach at the very end for extra nutrients.

Just ensure they are cooked until tender before blending. This Tarragon Soup is wonderfully adaptable to what you have on hand, minimizing waste.

Tarragon is an herb known for its distinct anise flavor, commonly used in French cuisine and various dishes. This versatile ingredient adds a unique touch to soups, enhancing their overall flavor profile as seen in the traditional culinary applications of tarragon.

Final Thoughts

This Tarragon Soup transcends a simple meal; it is an invitation to savor fresh, vibrant flavors and embrace conscious cooking. It embodies creativity, plant-based goodness, and anti-waste principles. Share this comforting bowl with loved ones, knowing you nourished both body and soul. A truly pétillante experience!

Nutrition Information (per serving)

(Approximate values based on 6 servings, with plant-based milk and no wine)

Tarragon Soup

This delightful Tarragon Soup offers a velvety texture and an incredibly aromatic flavor profile, perfect for a light lunch or an elegant starter. A vibrant, soul-soothing vegan dish celebrating fresh, bright flavors.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 50 minutes mins

Servings: 6 servings servings

Course: Appetizer

Cuisine: French

Calories: 180

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large yellow onion, finely diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 stalks celery, diced
• 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1/2 cup dry white wine (optional)
• 1/2 cup fresh tarragon leaves, roughly chopped
• 1/4 cup unsweetened plant-based milk or cream
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Pinch of nutmeg (optional)
• Fresh lemon juice, to taste

Method

 

1. Prepare your vegetables: Wash and prepare all vegetables; dice onion and celery, mince garlic, cube potatoes, and chop tarragon.
2. Sauté aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and celery, cooking until softened. Add garlic and cook for another minute.
3. Deglaze (optional): If using white wine, pour it into the pot and scrape up browned bits. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes.
4. Add potatoes and broth: Introduce diced potatoes and vegetable broth; bring to a gentle boil, then cover and simmer for 15-20 minutes until potatoes are fork-tender.
5. Incorporate tarragon: Remove from heat and stir in most of the tarragon leaves.
6. Blend to perfection: Use an immersion blender to blend until creamy. If using a standard blender, be cautious with the hot liquid.
7. Finish and season: Return to low heat, stir in plant-based milk or cream, and season with salt, pepper, nutmeg, and lemon juice.
8. Serve: Ladle into bowls, garnish with reserved tarragon sprigs, and enjoy.

Notes

Ensure to use fresh tarragon for the best flavor. Adjust seasoning to taste and experiment with vegetable variations.