Jerusalem Artichoke Soup Recipe

The Jerusalem Artichoke is a really underused vegetable which looks looks a bit like a potato, has a texture a bit like a radish, and tastes nothing like either. It is actually the root of a species of sunflower and has a really unique earthy flavour.

Jerusalem Artichoke

It is this flavour which lends itself especially well to a simple soup. While it may seem a recipe cop-out to simply make a soup out of every vegetable which comes along, this served up with a touch of double cream and just a few drops of truffle oil on top can make a really impressive first course. You could also skip the pureeing process and the double cream altogether for something chunky and a little healthier, but either way tastes perfect.

If you’ve never tried the Jerusalem Artichoke before, now is the time – they’re in season right through Winter and you should be able to get hold of them all the way through till late February. A word of warning though – they are reported to have *ahem* rather gassy side effects. Luckily I’ve never experienced that, but don’t say I didn’t warn you!

Start out by putting your celery, onion and leek into a saucepan with the butter and cook over a low-medium heat for 5 minutes or so until softened slightly, then add in your Jerusalem Artichokes and cook for another 3 minutes stirring regularly.

Now pour in your chicken stock and bring to a boil, reducing down to a simmer and leaving for 15 minutes approximately until everything is soft.  Now you have the choice between serve as-is (add a bit more chicken stock if needed to thin the soup down) or puree; if you are pureeing it, simply add a little double cream off the heat to create a velvety smooth texture.

Season before serving and drizzle a little truffle oil over the top (if pureed) for a touch of luxury.  You’ll love it, I promise.