Jerusalem Artichoke and Green Tea Cream Soup

This delightful Jerusalem Artichoke and Green Tea Cream Soup is a unique blend of earthy and vibrant flavors. The Jerusalem artichokes, when cooked to perfection, offer a creamy texture that pairs wonderfully with the herbal notes of green tea. The addition of leeks and garlic deepens the flavor profile, while a splash of lemon juice brightens it. Fresh rosemary infuses the dish with aromatic warmth, and a garnish of fennel gives it a crisp, refreshing touch. The use of olive oil not only adds a rich, silky feel but also complements the savory elements beautifully. This recipe is both hearty and nutritious, ideal as a warming starter on a chilly day. The soup is finished with a sprinkle of sea salt and black pepper for that final burst of seasoning. It's easily adaptable to various dietary preferences, making it a versatile choice for many. A bowl of this soup promises a satisfying and heartwarming culinary experience.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 220 g Jerusalem artichokes, washed
• 1 small leek, green part removed
• 2 large cloves of garlic
• 2 tbsp lemon juice

Spices and Sauces

• 1/2 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary
• Olive oil
• 1 cup strong "Pukka Supreme matcha green" tea (2 tea bags)
• Sea salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste
• Fresh fennel, for garnish

Preparation Time

• Total: 20 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. Start by boiling water and steeping the green tea for a strong brew.
2. In a pot, heat olive oil and add a splash of water to maintain its healthy properties.
3. Chop the leek, garlic, and Jerusalem artichokes into small pieces, then add them to the pot with olive oil.
4. Sauté the vegetables for a few minutes until they start to soften.
5. Stir in the rosemary, lemon juice, sea salt, and black pepper, mixing well to combine.
6. Add half of the green tea into the pot and cover it with a lid.
7. Let the mixture simmer on low heat for about 10 - 15 minutes, or until the Jerusalem artichokes are soft enough to blend smoothly.
8. Once cooked, transfer the vegetables to a blender and blend until the soup reaches a creamy consistency.
9. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or lemon juice as needed.
10. Pour the creamy soup into bowls.
11. Garnish each serving with thin slices of fresh fennel, a few black peppercorns, and a drizzle of olive oil.
12. Enjoy your hearty and nutritious cream soup!

Tips

• For an even richer texture, add a splash of cream or coconut milk.
• Substitute rosemary with thyme or sage for a different flavor profile.
• Be sure not to overcook the vegetables to retain their natural flavors.

Nutritions

• Calories: Approximately 250 per serving
• Protein: 3g
• Fats: 7g
• Carbs: 40g

Variations

• Vegan Option: Replace regular cream with plant-based alternatives like almond or coconut cream.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for heat.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a crusty baguette or rustic bread.
• Serve alongside a fresh green salad for a complete meal.

Best Places

• The Jerusalem Tavern - Traditional yet classic place to enjoy Jerusalem artichoke dishes. Location: 55 Britton St, Clerkenwell, London, UK.
• Tosca - Known for creatively using vegetables in Tuscany. Location: Via San Gimignano, Florence, Italy.
• The Greenhouse - Pioneers in incorporating green teas into savory dishes. Location: 3 Frogmore St, Dublin, Ireland.
• Leek & Artichoke Café - Specializes in unique artichoke creations. Location: 24 Rue Sainte, Lyon, France.
• Rosemary's Kitchen - Offers a cozy atmosphere with delectable soups. Location: 3rd Ave, Seattle, USA.
• Fennel Bistro - Contemporary twists on classic herbal infusions. Location: 234 Collins St, Melbourne, Australia.
• Matcha House - Fusion of Eastern and Western culinary arts using matcha. Location: Shijō Dori Kamogawa Building, Kyoto, Japan.
• Lemon Thyme Café - A bright spot for herbal and veggie lovers. Location: Mannerheimintie 20, Helsinki, Finland.
• Olive Grove - Mediterranean delight with a focus on organic ingredients. Location: Via del Corso, Rome, Italy.
• Salt & Pepper - Combines simple seasonings with quality ingredients elegantly. Location: 46 Oxford St, Sydney, Australia.