Parsnip, leek, apple and mustard soup

Soups & stews

Parsnip, leek, apple and mustard soup

Name: Parsnip, leek, apple and mustard soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4

Serves 4 40 min

Leeks, parsnips and apple give this easy-to-make soup a mild, comforting sweetness which is set off to perfection by the kick of mustard. If you don't have beer mustard, any other wholegrain mustard is fine – though perhaps also add a pinch of chilli so you get the equivalent kick. For a more elaborate bowl, deep-fry some finely shredded leeks, and top your soup with a swirl of crème fraîche, crispy leeks and, if you're not vegetarian, perhaps some fried lardons of bacon.

Ingredients

oil for frying, e.g. rapeseed
1 large leek, shredded (use the white and green parts)
2 large parsnips, peeled and diced
1 apple, peeled, cored and diced
1.2 litre veg stock
1 tbsp beer mustard
salt and pepper

Method

Prep time: 10 min

Cooking time: 30 min

Step 1
Heat 1 tablesoon of oil in a large saucepan. Add the leek and fry gently for 8 minutes, stirring now and then to stop it catching.
Step 2
Add the parsnips and stir for 1 minute. Add the apple, stock and season. Bring to the boil, reduce the heat and simmer for 20 minutes or so, until the parsnips are tender.
Step 3
Blend until smooth. Put back in the same pan and stir in the mustard. Reheat gently. Check the seasoning and serve.