Ginger and Turmeric Carrot Soup
Ginger
Fresh ginger (Zingiber officinale) has anti-viral activity against human respiratory syncytial virus.
Ginger can help promote healthy sweating, which is often helpful during colds and flus.
A good sweat may do a lot more than simply assist detoxification. German researchers have recently found that sweat contains a potent germ-fighting agent (Dermicidin) that may help fight
off infections.
Dermicidin is manufactured in the body's sweat glands, secreted into the sweat, and transported to the skin's surface where it provides protection against invading microorganisms,
including bacteria such as E. coli and Staphylococcus aureus.
Turmeric
Turmeric is considered a general immune system booster due to its high antioxidant capacity.
Recent research also suggests that it possesses strong anti-inflammatory properties that could help reduce symptoms associated with colds and flu.
Turmeric also contains unique immune-stimulating polysaccharides, which can potentially aid the healing process in the body.
Recipe
Ingredients
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1 medium onion finely chopped
1 clove garlic finely chopped
1 piece thumb-sized of fresh ginger peeled and grated
1 teaspoon ground turmeric
zest and juice of 1 orange
1 teaspoon salt
freshly ground black pepper
500g carrots peeled and chopped
1 litre (4 1/4 cups) vegetable stock
Method
Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, until translucent. Add the garlic, ginger, turmeric, orange zest, salt, pepper and
sauté for 2 minutes or until the spices are fragrant. Add the carrots and sauté for 3 minutes.
Pour in the vegetable stock and orange juice, bring to a boil and lower to simmer. Cook for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the carrots are cooked through.
Puree the soup in batches in a high speed blender. Taste and add more salt and pepper if necessary.
Return the soup to the pan and reheat, adding more liquid if you prefer a thinner consistency.