Prep Cook Yield Ready In
20 minutes 45 minutes 4 65 minutes

Carrot Tahini Soup with Za’atar Challah Croutons Recipe

A simple warming soup with a bit of challah crunch.

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Roasted carrots with drizzled tahini dressing are a classic combination that I really enjoy. And so it was natural to combine the flavors of carrots, tahini, and challah in this comforting soup.

If you have leftover challah that has been sitting for a few days, it’s ideal for making challah croutons to float on top. I love enjoying this soup on a rainy day, and it reheats beautifully.

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Ingredients

For the soup:
  • 1.5 Tbsp olive oil
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 1/2 lb carrots, washed and sliced
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 slice challah, cubed
  • 1/2 tsp ground coriander
  • 1/2 tsp cumin
  • 1/2 tsp paprika
  • 1/4 tsp turmeric
  • 2 Tbsp tahini
  • 2.5 cups water or vegetable stock
For the croutons:
  • 1 cup diced stale challah
  • 2 tbs olive oil
  • 2 Tbsp za'atar
  • pinch of salt
For the tahini sauce: 
  • 1 large clove garlic
  • pinch of salt
  • 1/2 cup tahini
  • 1/4 cup lemon juice
  • 1/2 cup warm water

Directions

  1. To make the soup: In a large pot over medium heat, warm the oil, then add the onion and carrots. Cook, stirring frequently, until the onions have softened, about 5 minutes, then add the salt, pepper, coriander, cumin, paprika, and turmeric.
  2. Continue cooking for another 5 minutes. Stir in the tahini and challah slices, then add the water. Bring to a boil, then lower the heat and simmer, partially covered, for 25 minutes.
  3. Let the soup cool somewhat, then puree until smooth with an immersion blender. While the soup is cooking, make the croutons and sauce.
  4. To make the croutons: Preheat the oven to 415 F.
  5. Toss the challah with the olive, za'atar, and salt, then spread the coated challah cubes on a lined baking tray.
  6. Bake for 10 minutes, or until crisp and lightly browned.
  7. To make the tahini sauce: Mince the garlic and add to a medium sized mixing bowl. Add the tahini, salt, lemon juice, and water and whisk until fully combined.
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