Five-Spice Beet Soup for Comfort

Ingredients

Estimated total cost: €2.80 · €0.70/serving

• 4 small beetroots, thoroughly cleaned and trimmed, with skin intact, each sliced into 6 wedges (approximately 3 1/2 cups) (roast the beets for enhanced flavor)Est. price €0.80–€1.60
• 3 cups of vegetable stock, separated (homemade stock works best for richer flavor)Est. price €0.75–€1.50
• 1 tablespoon of extra-virgin olive oil (choose a high-quality oil for better taste)Est. price €0.20–€0.50
• 1 red onion of medium size, finely sliced (2 cups) (caramelize the onions for added sweetness)Est. price €0.40–€0.80
• 1 celery stalk with its verdant leaves, stalk finely chopped, leaves thinly sliced (include the leaves for added freshness)Est. price €0.30–€0.60
• 2 teaspoons of freshly grated ginger (peel the ginger for a smoother texture)Est. price €0.15–€0.30
• 1/4 teaspoon (or more to taste) of exotic Chinese five-spice powder* (adjust the amount to suit your preference)Est. price €0.10–€0.25
• Sour cream or plain yogurt (use as a garnish for a creamy finish)Est. price €0.10–€0.40

Steps

1. 1

   In a 4-cup glass measuring cup, arrange the beet wedges. Pour in 2 cups of broth. Cover with a paper plate and microwave on high until the beets are tender, approximately 15 minutes.

2. 2

   Begin by heating oil in a sturdy medium saucepan over medium heat. Add finely chopped onion and celery stalk, then cover the pan. Cook the vegetables until they are nearly tender and have turned translucent, stirring regularly throughout the process. This should take approximately 12 minutes.

3. 3

   Combine the beet mixture and 1 cup of broth with the onion mixture in a saucepan, then cover and simmer for 4 minutes. Stir in ginger and 1/4 teaspoon of five-spice powder. Transfer the mixture to a blender, cover it, and blend until smooth. Season the soup with salt, pepper, and more five-spice powder to taste, then reheat if needed. Divide the soup into 4 bowls and garnish each with dollops of sour cream and sliced celery leaves before serving.

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• Cultural note

  The use of exotic Chinese five-spice powder in this soup adds a unique flavor profile that originates from Chinese cuisine. Beets have a long history of culinary use and are popular in various cultural dishes for their vibrant color and earthy taste.

• Seasonal note

  Beetroots are typically in season during the cooler months of fall and winter, making this soup a perfect warming dish for those seasons.

• Health note

  This Five-Spice Beet Soup is a nutritious choice, providing a good source of fiber, vitamins A and C, and antioxidants from beetroots. The low calorie and fat content make it a healthy option for those looking to manage their weight.