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Hearty Winter Soups with Radicchio

As the winter months descend upon us, there's nothing quite like a warm, comforting bowl of soup to lift our spirits and soothe our souls. And what better way to add some extra depth and flavor to these wintry wonders than with the addition of radicchio, that vibrant and slightly bitter leafy green? Whether you're in the mood for something classic and straightforward or something a bit more adventurous and international-inspired, radicchio is the perfect ingredient to help take your winter soups to the next level.

A Celebration of Radicchio: Winter's Hidden Gem​

Radicchio's unique flavor profile - which combines hints of bitterness with a satisfying crunch - makes it the ideal addition to a wide range of winter soups. Whether you're looking to add some subtle sophistication to a simple tomato soup or want to infuse your creamy broths with an extra boost of nutrition and flavor, radicchio is sure to be a game-changer.

Roasted Radicchio and Garlic Soup​

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 head roasted radicchio, chopped
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Combine the olive oil and garlic in a large pot over medium heat. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until the garlic is fragrant and lightly golden. Add the roasted radicchio and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes before stirring in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 15-20 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly. Season with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of chopped parsley (if desired).

Spicy Black Bean and Radicchio Soup​

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup cooked black beans
  • 1 head radicchio, chopped
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the onion and cook for 3-5 minutes or until softened. Stir in the garlic, black beans, radicchio, vegetable broth, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil then reduce heat to a simmer and let cook for 15-20 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.

Creamy Radicchio and Leek Soup​

  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 leek, chopped (white and light green parts only)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 head radicchio, chopped
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Melt the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the leek and cook for 5-7 minutes or until softened. Stir in the garlic and radicchio before cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes. Add the chicken broth and bring to a boil before reducing heat to a simmer and letting cook for 15-20 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly. Blend with heavy cream until smooth and season with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of chopped parsley (if desired).

Whether you're in the mood for something comforting and classic or want to try something new and adventurous, radicchio is sure to be a welcome addition to your winter soups repertoire!