40 salicylic acid topical ointment for corns: Watercress Soup Recipes

Watercress Soup Recipes

Watercress, a peppery, nutrient-dense leafy green, has long been celebrated for its antioxidant power and crisp, peppery bite. Whether blended into a velvety soup or stirred into a fragrant broth, watercress adds brightness and depth to meals in every season. In this guide, we’ll explore three delightful watercress soup recipes: a classic creamy version, a zesty Asian-inspired broth, and a hearty vegan take, all packed with health benefits and full of vibrant flavor.

1. Classic Creamy Watercress Soup

This traditional creamy watercress soup is smooth, elegant, and soothing—perfect for a chilly day or a light starter at dinner parties. It’s easy to prepare and allows the bold flavor of watercress to shine through.

Ingredients:

1 tablespoon butter

1 small onion, chopped

1 clove garlic, minced

2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced

3 cups chicken or vegetable stock

1 bunch fresh watercress, thick stems removed

1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half

Salt and pepper to taste

Optional garnish: crème fraîche or sour cream, chopped chives

Instructions:

Sauté Aromatics: In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté for 3–4 minutes until soft and fragrant.

Simmer Base: Add the diced potatoes and stock. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer for 15–20 minutes or until potatoes are tender.

Add Watercress: Stir in the watercress and simmer for 3–4 minutes, just until wilted. Avoid overcooking to preserve its vibrant green color.

Blend and Cream: Remove from heat and blend the soup using an immersion blender (or in batches using a regular blender). Stir in the cream, then season with salt and pepper.

Serve Warm: Ladle into bowls and top with a dollop of crème fraîche and fresh chives, if desired.

Why You’ll Love It: Creamy and mild, this version is perfect for those who enjoy silky soups with a gourmet touch. The potato base adds body without overpowering the delicate greens.

2. Asian-Inspired Watercress and Ginger Broth

A twist on traditional soup, this Asian-style watercress broth features fresh ginger, garlic, and sesame oil. It’s light yet deeply flavorful, making it ideal as a detoxifying lunch or soothing dinner.

Ingredients:

1 tablespoon sesame oil

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced

4 cups low-sodium vegetable or chicken broth

1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari

1 teaspoon rice vinegar (optional)

1 large bunch watercress, roughly chopped

1/2 cup thinly sliced shiitake mushrooms (or any mushrooms)

1/2 block tofu, cubed (optional)

Sliced scallions and sesame seeds for garnish

Instructions:

Sauté Ginger and Garlic: In a soup pot, heat sesame oil over medium heat. Add garlic and ginger; cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.

Add Broth and Flavorings: Pour in the broth, soy sauce, and rice vinegar. Bring to a simmer.

Add Mushrooms and Tofu: Add mushrooms and tofu (if using). Simmer gently for 5–7 minutes until mushrooms are soft and tofu is heated through.

Add Watercress: Stir in the chopped watercress and cook for just 2–3 minutes until wilted.

Serve Hot: Ladle into bowls and top with scallions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds.

Why You’ll Love It: This recipe combines watercress with warming ginger and garlic—perfect for soothing a sore throat or boosting immunity. It's also naturally gluten-free (if using tamari) and can be made vegan with tofu.

3. Rustic Vegan Watercress and White Bean Soup

Hearty yet plant-based, this rustic watercress soup includes creamy white beans and root vegetables. Packed with fiber, protein, and greens, it’s both filling and energizing—a complete meal in a bowl.

Ingredients:

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 onion, chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 carrot, diced

1 stalk celery, chopped

1 medium potato, diced

1 (15 oz) can cannellini or great northern beans, rinsed and drained

4 cups vegetable broth

1 large bunch watercress, chopped

1 teaspoon lemon juice

Salt and black pepper to taste

Optional: red pepper flakes, thyme, or nutritional yeast

Instructions:

Sauté the Base: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, carrot, and celery. Sauté for 5–7 minutes until softened.

Simmer with Beans: Add potato, white beans, and broth. Simmer for 15 minutes, until the potato is tender.

Add Watercress: Stir in the watercress and cook for 3–4 minutes, just until wilted.

Optional Blend: For a thicker soup, blend half the mixture and return to the pot, or mash some beans with a fork.

Finish with Lemon: Stir in lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste.

Serve with Bread: Enjoy hot with a slice of crusty sourdough or whole-grain bread.

Why You’ll Love It: This recipe is earthy, satisfying, and ideal for batch-cooking. The lemon brightens the flavor, and the white beans give it a creamy texture without dairy.

Health Benefits of Watercress

All three recipes are not only delicious but offer a wealth of health benefits thanks to watercress:

Rich in Antioxidants: Watercress contains vitamin C, beta-carotene, and flavonoids that help protect cells.

Supports Bone Health: High in vitamin K, which is essential for bone metabolism.

Anti-inflammatory Properties: Its peppery compound, phenethyl isothiocyanate (PEITC), has been shown to reduce inflammation.

Hydrating and Detoxifying: With its high water content and mild diuretic effect, it supports kidney and liver function.

Cooking Tips for Perfect Watercress Soup

Use Fresh Watercress: Look for vibrant green leaves and avoid any that are yellowing or wilted. Rinse thoroughly to remove grit.

Don’t Overcook: Watercress loses its color and peppery flavor when overcooked. Add it at the end and simmer briefly.

Adjust Texture: Whether creamy or brothy, you can control the consistency by blending partially or adding thickening agents like potatoes or beans.

Pair Wisely: Watercress pairs beautifully with lemon, garlic, ginger, root vegetables, and mild cheeses.

Watercress soups are more than just tasty—they're nourishing, versatile, and easy to adapt for various dietary needs. Whether you’re in the mood for classic comfort, Asian flair, or a hearty vegan option, these three recipes provide something for every palate. With a bunch of watercress in hand, you’re just a few simple steps away from a meal that’s as wholesome as it is flavorful.

40 salicylic acid topical ointment for corns

Saturday, 3 May 2025

Watercress Soup Recipes

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