Cherry Soup
There’s something utterly charming about a warm bowl of Cherry Soup on a sunny summer day. Growing up, my grandmother would whip up this delightful dish, filling our home with the sweet, tangy aroma of fresh cherries and sugar. It was a comforting staple in our household, perfect for those hot afternoons when all you wanted was something cool and refreshing. I remember gathering around the table with family, bowls in hand, as we shared stories and laughter, savoring every spoonful of this vibrant soup. The way the flavors meld together is nothing short of magical, and I can still hear my husband’s voice exclaiming how much he loves it served cold. Whether you enjoy it warm or chilled, Cherry Soup has a way of bringing people together.
Recipe Snapshot
23 mins
5 mins
18 mins
Medium
150 kcal
1 g
Keto, Paleo, Whole30
0 g
Wooden Spoon, Saucepan, Large Pot
The Charm of This Cherry Soup
A Taste of Nostalgia
What makes Cherry Soup truly special is its ability to evoke memories of childhood. It’s not just a recipe; it’s a connection to the past. Each bite transports me back to sunny afternoons spent with my grandmother, who always knew how to make the world feel a little brighter.
Versatility at Its Best
This soup is incredibly versatile. You can enjoy it warm, perfect for those cozy evenings, or chilled during the heat of summer. It can easily transition from a dessert to a refreshing appetizer, making it suitable for any occasion!
Simple Yet Satisfying
One of the best aspects of Cherry Soup is how easy it is to make. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a dish that feels so luxurious. The vibrant color and rich taste make it a feast for the senses.
Health Benefits
Cherries are not just delicious; they are packed with antioxidants and nutrients. They contribute to heart health, improve sleep quality, and are known to reduce inflammation. So, indulging in Cherry Soup can be both a treat and a guilt-free option!
Perfect for Any Gathering
Whether it’s a picnic, a family gathering, or a simple dinner at home, Cherry Soup is sure to please everyone. It’s a conversation starter, and I often find guests asking for the recipe. It’s always rewarding to share something that’s had such a positive impact on my life.
What Goes Into Cherry Soup
The ingredients for Cherry Soup are simple yet essential. Each one plays a crucial role in creating that balanced flavor profile that makes this dish so delightful. From the sweet and tart notes of fresh cherries to the silky smoothness provided by potato starch, every component harmonizes beautifully to create a soup that’s truly special.
- 1 lb sweet red cherries, fresh or frozen, pitted – These juicy cherries are the star of the show, providing natural sweetness and a beautiful hue to the soup.
- 8 cups filtered water – Water serves as the base, helping to extract the flavors from the cherries.
- 3/4 cup sugar – Sugar enhances the natural sweetness of the cherries, balancing the tartness.
- 1 Tbsp fresh lemon juice – A splash of lemon juice brightens the flavors and adds a lovely zing.
- 4 Tbsp potato starch in 1/4 cup cold water – This acts as a thickening agent, creating a smooth and creamy texture for the soup.
Putting Together Cherry Soup
Making Cherry Soup is a rewarding process that brings together fresh ingredients and a bit of love. Follow these steps, and you’ll soon have a warm bowl of this delightful soup ready to enjoy. Let’s dive in!
- Start by filling a medium pot with 8 cups of water. This will be the base for your soup. It’s essential to use filtered water for the best taste. I usually reach for the coldest water available to get things going.
- Add 1 pound of pitted cherries to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Keep an eye on it as the cherries begin to release their juices, turning the water a lovely shade of red. The sweet aroma will start filling your kitchen!
- Once it reaches a rolling boil, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 12 minutes. You want to cover the pot partially; make sure not to cover it completely, as this could cause the contents to spill over. Stir occasionally, enjoying the delightful fragrance.
- After simmering, stir in 3/4 cup of sugar and 1 Tbsp of lemon juice. This step adds sweetness and acidity that play perfectly off the cherries. Let the mixture continue to simmer for another 3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
- To thicken your soup, dissolve 4 Tbsp of potato starch in 1/4 cup of cold water. Make sure it’s well mixed without lumps. Slowly add this mixture to the pot while stirring continuously. The soup will begin to thicken almost immediately, creating that desirable silky texture.
- Remove the pot from heat and let the kissel cool slightly. Here’s where you can make a decision: you can strain out the cherries if you prefer a smoother soup, or leave them in for added texture and flavor. I always opt for leaving them in!
- To serve, ladle the very warm soup into bowls or mugs. It’s a versatile dish that can be enjoyed warm or chilled. My husband loves his Cherry Soup cold, especially on hot days.
- As an extra tip, this soup reheats beautifully! You can make it ahead of time and enjoy it at your leisure. Just warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Perfect Pairings for Cherry Soup
- Fresh Mint: A sprig of fresh mint on top can enhance the presentation and add a refreshing flavor contrast.
- Yogurt: A dollop of plain yogurt adds a creamy texture and balances the sweetness.
- Perfect for Brunch: Serve Cherry Soup as a starter at brunch. It’s an unexpected yet delightful dish that will impress your guests.
- Pair with Bread: Crusty bread or biscuits on the side can complement the soup perfectly, offering a nice contrast in texture.
- Seasonal Options: This soup works wonderfully at summer picnics or gatherings. It’s refreshing, easy to serve, and looks beautiful in a pitcher for self-service.
- Leftover Treat: Any leftovers can be refrigerated for up to a week, and you can even freeze portions for a refreshing treat later on!
Things Worth Knowing
- Potato Starch Tip: Use potato starch for the best results. It’s specifically recommended for this soup as it achieves a smoother texture compared to alternatives like cornstarch.
- Cherry Selection: Opt for ripe, sweet cherries for the best flavor. If you’re using frozen, ensure they are fully thawed and pitted before adding them to the soup.
- Texture Preference: Decide whether you prefer a chunky or a smooth soup before starting. This will dictate whether you strain the cherries or leave them in.
- Adjust Sweetness: Feel free to adjust the amount of sugar based on your taste and the tartness of the cherries. Every batch can be a little different!
Ways to Adapt This Recipe
There are endless ways to adapt Cherry Soup to suit your tastes and preferences. Here are some ideas to consider:
- Storage: To store leftovers, refrigerate in an airtight container for up to a week. Make sure it’s completely cooled before sealing.
- Freezing: Yes, you can freeze Cherry Soup! Pour into freezer-safe containers and store for up to three months. Just thaw in the refrigerator overnight before enjoying.
- Variations: Try adding other fruits, like raspberries or blueberries, for a mixed fruit soup. They can complement the cherries beautifully.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve with a scoop of whipped cream or vanilla yogurt for a delicious dessert twist.
- Garnish Options: Consider garnishing with chopped nuts or seeds for added texture and flavor.
Notes
- Potato Starch Works Best: Using potato starch is key for this soup. It creates the right consistency and doesn’t impact the flavor negatively like cornstarch can.
- Where to Find: Look for potato starch in the baking aisle or specialty stores. It’s becoming more common in grocery stores, especially in the organic or international sections.
- Experiment with Sweetness: You may need more or less sugar depending on the sweetness of the cherries you use, so don’t hesitate to adjust!
- Cool Variations: Some people enjoy Cherry Soup cold, so if you prefer that option, chill it overnight before serving.
- Serving Size: This recipe serves about 6 people, but it can easily be halved for a smaller gathering.
FAQ
Conclusion
Cherry Soup is a delightful dish that brings together not only the comforting flavors of sweet cherries but also the warmth of family and memories. This recipe is not just about food; it’s about creating moments worth sharing. I encourage you to try making this soup at home. Give it a go, and you’ll soon find it becoming a beloved staple at your table!
Cherry Soup
Equipment
- Wooden Spoon
- Saucepan
- Large Pot
Ingredients
- 1 lb sweet red cherries fresh or frozen, pitted
- 8 cups filtered water
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 1 Tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 4 Tbsp potato starch in 1/4 cup cold water
Instructions
- Start by filling a medium pot with 8 cups of water. This will be the base for your soup. It's essential to use filtered water for the best taste. I usually reach for the coldest water available to get things going.
- Add 1 pound of pitted cherries to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Keep an eye on it as the cherries begin to release their juices, turning the water a lovely shade of red. The sweet aroma will start filling your kitchen!
- Once it reaches a rolling boil, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 12 minutes. You want to cover the pot partially; make sure not to cover it completely, as this could cause the contents to spill over. Stir occasionally, enjoying the delightful fragrance.
- After simmering, stir in 3/4 cup of sugar and 1 Tbsp of lemon juice. This step adds sweetness and acidity that play perfectly off the cherries. Let the mixture continue to simmer for another 3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
- To thicken your soup, dissolve 4 Tbsp of potato starch in 1/4 cup of cold water. Make sure it's well mixed without lumps. Slowly add this mixture to the pot while stirring continuously. The soup will begin to thicken almost immediately, creating that desirable silky texture.
- Remove the pot from heat and let the kissel cool slightly. Here’s where you can make a decision: you can strain out the cherries if you prefer a smoother soup, or leave them in for added texture and flavor. I always opt for leaving them in!
- To serve, ladle the very warm soup into bowls or mugs. It’s a versatile dish that can be enjoyed warm or chilled. My husband loves his Cherry Soup cold, especially on hot days.
- As an extra tip, this soup reheats beautifully! You can make it ahead of time and enjoy it at your leisure. Just warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Notes
- Potato Starch Works Best: Using potato starch is key for this soup. It creates the right consistency and doesn’t impact the flavor negatively like cornstarch can.
- Where to Find: Look for potato starch in the baking aisle or specialty stores. It’s becoming more common in grocery stores, especially in the organic or international sections.
- Experiment with Sweetness: You may need more or less sugar depending on the sweetness of the cherries you use, so don’t hesitate to adjust!
- Cool Variations: Some people enjoy Cherry Soup cold, so if you prefer that option, chill it overnight before serving.
- Serving Size: This recipe serves about 6 people, but it can easily be halved for a smaller gathering.
