Smoky Maple Chestnut Essence

Experience the rich and earthy flavors of fall with this Smoked Maple Chestnut Soup. Roasted chestnuts lend a sweet, nutty depth, while hints of smokiness and maple create a warm, comforting dish. Finished with a spiced crème fraîche and garnished with crispy sage, this exquisite soup is perfect for chilly evenings. Serve it alongside charred sourdough for an irresistible pairing.
ingredients
- 1 lb fresh chestnuts
- 2 tbsp smoked maple syrup
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 cup crème fraîche
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp nutmeg
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh sage leaves, for frying
- Maple-infused olive oil, for drizzling
- 4 slices sourdough bread, for serving
steps
- 1.
Preheat the oven to 400°F.
- 2.
Roast the chestnuts in the oven for about 20 minutes, until tender.
- 3.
Remove chestnuts from the oven, let cool, then peel and chop for garnish.
- 4.
In a bowl, mix crème fraîche with smoked paprika, nutmeg, salt, and pepper to create the spiced crème fraîche.
- 5.
In a blender, combine the roasted chestnuts, smoked maple syrup, and broth. Blend until velvety smooth.
- 6.
Ladle the soup into bowls.
- 7.
Swirl in the spiced crème fraîche on top of each bowl.
- 8.
Garnish the soup with crispy sage leaves, toasted chestnut pieces, and a drizzle of maple-infused olive oil.
- 9.
Serve with charred sourdough bread on the side for dipping.