Watercress Soup Recipe

This watercress soup recipe is my go-to because it’s both nourishing and lightning-fast to whip up—perfect for my busy millennial life. Plus, the fresh, vibrant flavors give off that gourmet vibe without the hassle, making it a total Instagram-worthy meal!

There is something about vibrant watercress soup that I love, and its intense flavor is hardly the main reason. Yes, it has lots of good-tasting stuff in it—broth made from home-cured ham, sweet sautéed onions, peppery watercress, and earthy potatoes.

For me, the irresistible quality of the soup lies mainly in the fact that it is so simple yet so good. Add to that a touch of cream, which is by no means essential but is nice if you have it, and I seem to have forking up a big bowl of this soup and not being able to stop.

Ingredients

Watercress: Abundant in vitamins A, C, and K; imparts peppery freshness.

Olive Oil: A source of healthy fats; adds a smooth richness.

Onions bring a natural sweetness and a deep level of flavor.

Garlic: Adds a savory kick; boosts immune health.

Creamy textural counterpart; carbohydrate contributor.

Broth: Foundation for taste; supplies hydration and flavor enhancement.

Ingredient Quantities

• 1 bunch of watercress, washed and trimmed
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 medium potato, peeled and diced
• 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: 1/4 cup heavy cream or sour cream for garnish

Instructions

1. In a large pot, over medium heat, warm the olive oil.

2. Put in the diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, until soft and translucent.

3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.

4. Incorporate the diced potato and sauté it for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring now and then.

5. Add the vegetable or chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil.

6. Decrease the heat to a low bubble, place the lid on the pot, and allow the potatoes to cook until they are tender, which should take around 10 to 15 minutes.

7. Add the watercress to the pot and cook until wilted, about 3-5 minutes.

8. Take the soup pot off the heat and allow the soup to cool a bit before blending.

9. An immersion blender can be used directly in the pot, or you can transfer the soup to a stand blender. Either way, you’re going to want to blend it until smooth.

10. Taste the soup for seasoning; add salt and pepper if necessary. For a garnish, you can’t beat a swirl of heavy cream or a dollop of sour cream.

Equipment Needed

1. Large pot with lid
2. Cooking spoon or spatula
3. Chopping board
4. Chef’s knife
5. Measuring spoons
6. Measuring cup
7. Immersion blender or stand blender
8. Ladle

FAQ

• Can I use a different leafy green instead of watercress?Certainly, spinach or arugula can be used in place of watercress if you can’t find it.
• How do I ensure the soup has a smooth texture?Blend using an immersion blender or a regular blender in batches until smooth.
• Is it possible to make this soup vegan?Of course! Use veggie broth and swap the cream or sour cream for a dairy-free alternative like coconut milk.
• Can I make this soup ahead of time?Affirmative, the soup may be prepared in advance and stored in the cold compartment of the kitchen for as long as 3 days. Warm it up gently before serving.
• What pairs well with watercress soup?Crusty bread or a light salad make superb companions for watercress soup.
• How do I adjust the thickness of the soup?If the soup is too thick, add more broth; if it’s too thin, simmer longer to reduce it.
• Can I freeze the soup?Indeed, you can freeze this soup for up to 2 months. When you are ready to serve it, thaw and reheat it gently.

Substitutions and Variations

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• 1 tablespoon coconut oil or butter instead of olive oil
• 1 leek, white and light green parts, chopped, instead of 1 medium onion
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder instead of 2 cloves garlic
• 1 medium parsnip, peeled and diced, instead of 1 medium potato
• 4 cups bone broth or mushroom broth instead of vegetable or chicken broth
• Optional: 1/4 cup crème fraîche or Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream or sour cream for garnish

Pro Tips

1. Enhance Flavor with Herbs Consider adding fresh herbs like thyme or a bay leaf while simmering the soup to enhance its flavor. Remember to remove the bay leaf before blending.

2. Optimal Blending Technique For the smoothest texture, blend the soup in batches if using a stand blender, and ensure the opening of the blender’s lid is slightly ajar to allow steam to escape. A towel can be used over the top for added safety.

3. Adjust for Consistency After blending, if the soup is too thick, you can adjust its consistency by adding more broth or water to reach your desired thickness.

4. Boost Nutritional Value Add a handful of fresh spinach or kale along with the watercress to increase nutrients without altering the taste significantly.

5. Enhance the Creaminess For a richer flavor, add a splash of cream or a pat of butter before serving, which can add a delightful creaminess to the soup.