Carrot puree is a smooth and flavorful preparation that can be used as a side dish, a base for soups, or a component in other recipes. It's quite easy to make and can be seasoned to suit your taste. Here's a basic recipe for carrot puree:
Ingredients:
- 1 pound carrots (about 4-5 medium carrots), peeled and sliced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
- 1/2 cup vegetable or chicken broth (or as needed)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional, for added sweetness)
Instructions:
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Cook the Carrots:
- Place the peeled and sliced carrots in a large pot and cover with water.
- Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat and simmer until the carrots are tender, about 15-20 minutes.
- Alternatively, you can steam the carrots until tender if you prefer.
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Drain and Prepare:
- Drain the carrots well and place them in a blender or food processor.
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Blend the Puree:
- Add the olive oil or butter to the carrots. Blend until smooth, adding vegetable or chicken broth gradually until you reach the desired consistency. You want the puree to be smooth and creamy, but not too runny.
- If you don’t have a blender or food processor, you can use a potato masher for a chunkier texture, though it will be less smooth.
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Season and Adjust:
- Season the puree with salt and pepper to taste. You can also add ground ginger, cinnamon, and honey or maple syrup if you like a touch of sweetness and extra flavor.
- Blend or stir to combine all seasonings.
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Heat Through:
- Transfer the puree to a saucepan and heat gently over low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.
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Serve:
- Serve the carrot puree as a side dish or use it as a base for soups. It pairs well with roasted meats, fish, or as a component in various recipes.
This carrot puree is versatile and can be customized with different seasonings and ingredients to suit your taste. Enjoy!