Cream of watercress soup – Classic
This is the traditional, time-tested version of the dish. It stays true to its origins, using well-established techniques and ingredients that define its authentic flavor. A perfect starting point for exploring its evolution.
Country: 
United Kingdom Servings: Serves 4
United Kingdom Servings: Serves 4Cream of Watercress Soup is a delightful and elegant dish hailing from the United Kingdom, where the cool, fertile fields provide the perfect environment for lush watercress. With its origins steeped in English culinary tradition, this soup brings together the peppery freshness of watercress with the comforting creaminess of a rich soup base. This dish is often enjoyed as a refined starter or a comforting meal during the colder months, when its vibrant flavor and verdant hue brighten up any table.
Ingredients
- watercress – 2 bunches / about 150 g
- butter – 2 tablespoons / 28 g
- onion – 1 medium, chopped / approximately 150 g
- potato – 1 medium, peeled and diced / approximately 200 g
- milk – 2 cups / 480 ml
- chicken or vegetable stock – 2 cups / 480 ml
- heavy cream – 1 cup / 240 ml
- salt – to taste
- pepper – to taste
Instructions
- 1. Melt the butter in a large pot over medium heat.
- 2. Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft, about 5 minutes.
- 3. Add the diced potato and continue to cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- 4. Pour in the milk and stock, bringing the mixture to a simmer.
- 5. Add the watercress and cook until the potatoes are tender, approximately 10-15 minutes.
- 6. Puree the soup with an immersion blender until smooth.
- 7. Stir in the heavy cream, and then season with salt and pepper to taste.
- 8. Gently reheat before serving, but do not boil.
Substitutions
- butter -> olive oil
- heavy cream -> coconut cream
- chicken stock -> vegetable stock
Enhancements in the Next Evolution
- Add a dash of nutmeg for warmth and complexity.
- Garnish with crispy bacon bits for added texture.
- Include a squeeze of lemon juice for a touch of acidity.
Curious to see how this dish evolves? Discover refined flavors and enhanced techniques in the next version.
