Mary Berry Honey Glazed Parsnip Soup Recipe [Tips & Tricks]

If you’re looking for a cozy and delicious soup recipe to warm up on a chilly day, Mary Berry’s honey glazed parsnip soup is the perfect choice!

With its smooth, velvety texture and the sweet, rich flavors of roasted parsnips, it’s a comforting dish that’s both satisfying and healthy. The honey glaze adds a delightful touch of sweetness that balances out the natural earthiness of the parsnips, creating a perfect harmony of flavors. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make, so you can enjoy a comforting bowl of homemade soup in no time!

Mary Berry Honey Glazed Parsnip Soup Recipe

Ingredients Needed

To create Mary Berry’s delightful Honey Glazed Parsnip Soup, you’ll need a collection of ingredients that harmonize well together, producing a rich, creamy, and subtly sweet flavor profile. The parsnips, of course, are the star ingredient, contributing a natural sweetness and earthy richness that forms the base of the soup. Here’s a detailed list of what you’ll need:

1. Parsnips (around 500g): These root vegetables are key to the dish. Their mild sweetness and nutty flavor will shine once roasted and blended into the soup. Choose firm, pale parsnips, ensuring they are not too fibrous or woody in the center.

2. Onion (1 large): A good onion will add a savory, slightly sweet undertone to balance out the sweetness of the parsnips. Typically, a yellow onion works best here as it offers a balanced flavor without overpowering the other ingredients.

3. Carrot (1 medium): Carrots provide additional sweetness and color to the soup. Their subtle flavor complements the parsnips while contributing to the overall depth of the dish.

4. Garlic (2 cloves): Garlic is essential for infusing the soup with its rich and aromatic flavor. When roasted, garlic softens and becomes sweeter, perfect for enhancing the dish without dominating the flavor.

5. Vegetable stock (1 liter): A good vegetable stock acts as the backbone of the soup, providing a savory base that ties all the flavors together. Opt for a high-quality stock for the best results, or make your own to enhance the flavor.

6. Honey (2 tablespoons): The honey is the key ingredient that makes this soup stand out. It adds a layer of sweetness, perfectly balancing the earthiness of the parsnips and carrots. Go for a light, floral honey for a subtle, fragrant sweetness.

7. Olive oil (2 tablespoons): Used for roasting the vegetables and adding a bit of richness to the final soup, olive oil enhances the flavors without overpowering the dish.

8. Salt and pepper: Simple but essential for seasoning. Salt helps bring out the natural flavors of the vegetables, while pepper adds a slight hint of heat.

9. Cream (optional, for garnish): Some people love a swirl of cream to finish off their parsnip soup, adding extra richness and creaminess. This step is optional but highly recommended if you’re aiming for a velvety finish.

Equipment Needed

Mary Berry’s Honey Glazed Parsnip Soup is simple to prepare, but there are a few key pieces of equipment that will ensure your cooking process runs smoothly and your results are optimal.

1. Roasting tray: A large, flat roasting tray is essential for roasting the parsnips, carrots, onion, and garlic. A non-stick surface will make cleanup easier, and it helps to evenly distribute the heat during roasting.

2. Large saucepan or pot: Once the vegetables are roasted, you’ll need a large saucepan to simmer them with the vegetable stock. A heavy-bottomed pot is best, as it helps to prevent the stock from burning while it simmers.

3. Blender or hand blender (immersion blender): The soup’s creamy consistency comes from blending the roasted vegetables with the stock. A high-speed blender or immersion blender will help you achieve that silky smooth texture. If you prefer a chunky soup, you can blend to your desired consistency, but Mary Berry’s version is often velvety smooth.

4. Wooden spoon or spatula: A good, sturdy spoon is necessary to stir the soup, especially while cooking the vegetables in the pot. A spatula is also handy for scraping the roasted vegetables off the tray and into the pot without wasting any bits.

5. Knife and chopping board: You’ll need a sharp knife to chop the vegetables into pieces before roasting. A good chopping board ensures safety and ease when preparing the ingredients.

6. Measuring spoons and cups: Accurate measurements are key when adding honey, olive oil, and other seasonings. Using measuring spoons and cups ensures consistency in taste and texture.

How To Make Mary Berry’s Honey Glazed Parsnip Soup

Making Mary Berry’s Honey Glazed Parsnip Soup is a straightforward process, but the combination of roasting the vegetables first and then blending them creates an intense depth of flavor. Here’s a step-by-step guide to ensure you get it just right:

1. Preheat the oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 200°C (400°F). This will allow the vegetables to roast to perfection while you prepare the rest of the ingredients.

2. Prepare the vegetables: Peel the parsnips and carrots, then chop them into chunks of similar size for even roasting. Peel and halve the onion, and peel the garlic cloves but leave them whole. Place all the vegetables onto a roasting tray.

3. Roast the vegetables: Drizzle the vegetables with olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and toss them to ensure they’re evenly coated. Roast in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the vegetables are golden and tender. This caramelization step is important because it enhances the natural sweetness of the vegetables.

4. Make the soup base: Once roasted, transfer the vegetables into a large saucepan. Pour in the vegetable stock and bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat. Allow it to cook for about 10 minutes so the flavors can meld together.

5. Blend the soup: Remove the saucepan from the heat, and using an immersion blender, blend the soup until it reaches a smooth, velvety consistency. If you’re using a stand blender, blend in batches, taking care not to burn yourself with the hot liquid.

6. Add the honey: Stir in the honey, adjusting to taste if you want a sweeter soup. The honey should blend smoothly with the creamy soup base, enhancing its richness.

7. Taste and adjust: Give your soup a final taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. You can add more salt, pepper, or honey, depending on your preferences.

8. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls, and if desired, swirl a little cream over the top for added richness. Garnish with fresh herbs like thyme or parsley for a pop of color and added flavor.

Expert Tips

To elevate Mary Berry’s Honey Glazed Parsnip Soup and make it truly your own, here are some expert tips that can make a difference:

1. Roast the vegetables until caramelized: The key to the depth of flavor in this soup lies in roasting the vegetables until they are caramelized. Don’t rush the roasting process; letting the vegetables roast for a bit longer will deepen their flavor.

2. Use homemade stock: While store-bought vegetable stock is perfectly fine, homemade stock will give your soup a richer, more nuanced taste. Consider using scraps like onion peels, carrot ends, and herbs to make a simple vegetable broth that enhances the overall flavor of the soup.

3. Make it vegan: For a vegan version of this soup, simply swap the cream for coconut milk or leave it out altogether. You can also substitute honey with maple syrup for a fully plant-based option.

4. Spices for extra warmth: If you want to add a little extra complexity to your soup, try adding a pinch of ground nutmeg or cumin while roasting the vegetables. These spices pair beautifully with the parsnips and enhance the soup’s richness.

5. Pre-roast the vegetables for a quicker prep: If you’re short on time, you can pre-roast the vegetables in advance and store them in the fridge for a couple of days before making the soup. This allows the roasting flavors to intensify.

Mary Berry’s Honey Glazed Parsnip Soup is the perfect dish for cozy evenings, combining the natural sweetness of parsnips and honey with a rich, creamy texture. Whether you serve it as a comforting starter for a dinner party or enjoy it as a simple, nourishing lunch, this soup offers layers of flavor that are sure to satisfy. With just a few key ingredients and some thoughtful preparation, you can create a dish that celebrates the humble parsnip in an entirely new and delicious way.

Remember, the secret lies in the roasting process-allowing the vegetables to caramelize brings out their natural sweetness and adds a depth of flavor that you can’t achieve with boiling alone. So gather your ingredients, get ready to roast, and enjoy this wonderfully comforting soup that Mary Berry herself would surely be proud of.

Easy Recipe Variations For Mary Berry’s Honey Glazed Parsnip Soup

Mary Berry’s Honey Glazed Parsnip Soup is a comforting and flavorful dish, perfect for chilly days. The delicate sweetness of the parsnips paired with honey creates a rich, velvety soup that warms the soul.

But like any classic recipe, it leaves room for personal interpretation and culinary exploration. If you’re looking to add a little twist to this dish, here are some easy variations that will take it to new heights:.

1. Add A Touch Of Spice

   If you love a little heat to balance the sweetness, consider incorporating a pinch of ground ginger, cinnamon, or nutmeg into the soup. These spices bring an aromatic warmth that complements the honey and parsnip perfectly. Alternatively, a dash of chili flakes or cayenne pepper can add a gentle kick without overpowering the dish’s delicate flavors.

2. Swap The Parsnips For Root Vegetables

   While parsnips are the star of this soup, you can easily swap them out for other root vegetables like carrots, sweet potatoes, or even butternut squash. Each of these vegetables offers a similar texture but with its own unique flavor profile. Sweet potatoes, for instance, bring a rich, earthy sweetness that pairs beautifully with honey, while carrots introduce a fresh, slightly tangy note.

3. Incorporate Greens For Extra Nutrients

   To boost the nutritional value and add a vibrant green contrast, consider blending in a handful of spinach, kale, or Swiss chard towards the end of cooking. These leafy greens offer a hearty, earthy flavor that contrasts nicely with the sweetness of the parsnips and honey. They also provide a punch of vitamins and antioxidants.

4. Creamy Variations

   If you’re craving an even creamier texture, consider stirring in a dollop of heavy cream, crème fraîche, or Greek yogurt just before serving. The richness of the creaminess adds an extra layer of indulgence, while the tangy yogurt will bring a lovely balance to the sweet flavors. For a dairy-free version, coconut cream is a fantastic substitute that will introduce a subtle tropical richness.

5. Infuse With Herbs

   For an aromatic twist, you can infuse the soup with fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or bay leaves while it cooks. These herbs lend a fragrant, savory depth to the soup that harmonizes with the sweet, earthy flavors of the parsnips. If you want to keep it light, fresh parsley or cilantro sprinkled on top right before serving can add a burst of freshness.

6. Toppings And Garnishes

   Sometimes, the simplest changes can elevate a dish. Consider topping the soup with roasted seeds like pumpkin or sunflower, crispy croutons, or a sprinkle of toasted almonds.

   These additions provide a delightful crunch that contrasts with the smooth texture of the soup, adding both texture and flavor. A swirl of honey or a few extra drizzles of olive oil can also serve as a finishing touch for an added visual appeal and depth of taste.

Best Practices To Store Leftovers

Mary Berry’s Honey Glazed Parsnip Soup makes a great leftover dish, as the flavors continue to develop over time. To ensure your leftovers stay fresh and delicious, follow these best practices for storing and reheating:

1. Cool The Soup Properly

   Before storing your soup, it’s crucial to let it cool to room temperature. Placing hot soup directly into the fridge can raise the temperature inside the fridge and may cause bacteria to grow. Allow the soup to cool for no more than two hours before transferring it to an airtight container.

2. Use Airtight Containers

   When storing the soup, make sure it is placed in airtight containers to prevent air from getting in and affecting the flavor. Glass containers are a great choice, as they won’t absorb odors, and they also allow you to easily reheat the soup without transferring it to another vessel.

3. Freezing Leftovers

   If you have a large batch and want to store it for a longer period, freezing is a good option. Pour the cooled soup into freezer-safe bags or containers, ensuring you leave some space at the top to account for expansion as the soup freezes.

   The soup can last in the freezer for up to three months. To reheat, thaw it overnight in the fridge before gently reheating on the stove.

4. Reheating Tips

   When reheating, it’s best to do so on low heat, stirring occasionally to ensure the soup is heated evenly. If you find the soup has thickened too much in storage, simply add a bit of water, vegetable stock, or cream to return it to the desired consistency. Be mindful not to bring it to a boil to prevent the texture from becoming grainy.

5. Keep Toppings Separate

   If you plan to store leftovers with toppings (like roasted seeds or croutons), it’s best to keep them separate. These toppings can lose their crunch when stored in the soup, so adding them just before serving ensures that your soup maintains its texture.

What Goes Well With Honey Glazed Parsnip Soup

Mary Berry’s Honey Glazed Parsnip Soup, with its rich, smooth texture and naturally sweet flavor, pairs well with a variety of side dishes and accompaniments. Here are a few options that can elevate your meal:

1. Freshly Baked Bread

   A crusty loaf of bread, like a French baguette or a hearty sourdough, is always a perfect pairing with any soup. The bread can be used for dipping, soaking up the flavors of the soup, or simply enjoyed on the side with a pat of butter. For an extra twist, consider serving garlic bread or a warm focaccia, which adds an extra layer of flavor to complement the sweetness of the soup.

2. Salads

   A crisp salad with a tangy vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the creamy, slightly sweet parsnip soup. A simple green salad with mixed greens, arugula, or watercress tossed with lemon or balsamic dressing can offer a vibrant balance to the richness of the soup. You can also add some roasted nuts like walnuts or almonds to the salad for added texture and flavor.

3. Cheese And Charcuterie

   For a more indulgent pairing, a selection of cheeses and charcuterie can complement the soup beautifully. Soft, creamy cheeses like brie or goat cheese work well with the soup’s sweetness, while a few slices of prosciutto or smoked ham provide a savory contrast. The saltiness of the charcuterie cuts through the richness of the soup, creating a balanced and satisfying combination.

4. Roasted Vegetables

   Roasted vegetables, particularly those with a caramelized exterior like Brussels sprouts, carrots, or sweet potatoes, provide a hearty and savory complement to the parsnip soup. The natural sweetness of roasted vegetables aligns with the honey-glazed flavor of the soup, while their texture contrasts wonderfully with the soup’s smoothness.

5. A Glass Of White Wine

   If you’re enjoying a more sophisticated dining experience, consider pairing the soup with a light white wine. A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a floral Pinot Grigio can elevate the flavors, balancing the soup’s sweetness and enhancing its earthy tones. If you prefer something a little richer, a lightly oaked Chardonnay will add a bit of buttery depth that complements the honeyed sweetness.

Conclusion

Mary Berry’s Honey Glazed Parsnip Soup is a deliciously comforting dish that combines the natural sweetness of parsnips with the richness of honey, creating a perfectly balanced bowl of warmth. Its versatility allows for a wide range of variations, from spiced additions to creamier versions, so you can experiment and personalize the recipe to suit your tastes. Whether you’re looking to store leftovers or pair it with a complementary side, this soup offers a delightful canvas for both creativity and indulgence.

In addition to its flavor, the soup’s ease of storage and reheatability make it an excellent choice for meal prepping. By following the right practices, you can keep your soup fresh for days, allowing you to enjoy it multiple times throughout the week. With the right pairing – be it a slice of bread, a crisp salad, or a glass of wine – this dish is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection, offering a taste of comfort and elegance every time you serve it.

FAQs

What Are The Main Ingredients In Mary Berry’s Honey Glazed Parsnip Soup?

The main ingredients for Mary Berry’s honey glazed parsnip soup include parsnips, honey, vegetable stock, onions, garlic, olive oil, and seasoning such as salt and pepper. Some variations may include cream or fresh herbs like thyme for added flavor.

Can I Make Mary Berry’s Honey Glazed Parsnip Soup Without Honey?

While honey is a key ingredient in this soup for adding sweetness and a caramelized flavor, you can substitute it with maple syrup, agave nectar, or a sugar alternative if you prefer. The flavor will differ slightly, but it will still be delicious.

How Do You Glaze The Parsnips In Mary Berry’s Soup Recipe?

To glaze the parsnips, you first peel and chop them into small pieces. Then, toss them in olive oil and honey, making sure each piece is evenly coated. Roast them in the oven until tender and lightly caramelized, which usually takes about 20-25 minutes at 180°C (350°F).

Can I Make Mary Berry’s Honey Glazed Parsnip Soup Ahead Of Time?

Yes, you can make the soup ahead of time. Once it’s cooked, allow it to cool, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

To reheat, simply warm it up on the stove over low heat until hot. You may need to add a little more stock to reach your desired consistency.

Can I Freeze Mary Berry’s Honey Glazed Parsnip Soup?

Yes, this soup freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it into freezer-safe containers.

It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. When reheating, thaw the soup in the fridge overnight and then reheat on the stove with a little added stock if needed.

What Can I Serve With Mary Berry’s Honey Glazed Parsnip Soup?

Mary Berry’s honey glazed parsnip soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, such as sourdough or a baguette. You can also serve it with a dollop of crème fraîche or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like thyme or parsley for added flavor and garnish.

Can I Make Mary Berry’s Honey Glazed Parsnip Soup Vegan?

Yes, you can make this soup vegan by omitting any cream and replacing the honey with a plant-based sweetener, such as maple syrup. Use vegetable stock that is labeled vegan to ensure the recipe stays plant-based.

How Do I Make The Soup Extra Creamy?

To make Mary Berry’s honey glazed parsnip soup extra creamy, you can add a splash of cream or coconut milk after blending the soup. Alternatively, for a dairy-free option, you can use blended cashews or a non-dairy cream substitute to achieve a rich, smooth texture.

How Do I Know When The Parsnips Are Properly Roasted For The Soup?

The parsnips are ready when they are tender when pierced with a fork and have developed a golden, slightly caramelized color on the edges. This usually takes about 20-25 minutes at 180°C (350°F), but keep an eye on them to avoid burning.

Can I Add Other Vegetables To Mary Berry’s Honey Glazed Parsnip Soup?

Absolutely!

You can add other root vegetables such as carrots or sweet potatoes for added flavor and texture. Just make sure to adjust the seasoning accordingly. Roasting other vegetables along with the parsnips before adding them to the soup will give the dish a richer, more complex flavor.