Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker – Elixir Soup

“You got Elixir Soup! This healthy soup your grandmother makes replenishes all of your life energy and magic power! Your attack power also doubles until the first time you take damage! Now THAT is one hearty soup! And your kind old grandmother filled your bottle so full that there’s two helpings inside! Isn’t she the sweetest?” The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker

As Link will tell you, saving Zelda is hard work. Injury is inevitable and, if you look at the grimace on Link’s face, potions aren’t exactly the most pleasant way to heal yourself.

Made by Link’s Grandmother, the delicious Elixir Soup featured in The Wind Waker is different. Not only does it fully heal Link’s health AND his magic, it doubles his attack strength (until he gets damaged). It even makes his sword glow! AND, unlike with those horrible potions, he smiles while he drinks it.

Recipe: Link’s Grandmother’s Elixir Soup

1kg butternut pumpkin, peeled and roughly chopped
2 carrots, peeled and roughly chopped
3 cloves garlic, peeled
1 large onion, peeled and roughly chopped
2 tbsp olive oil
1 litre vegetable stock
Salt
Freshly ground pepper
Chives (to serve)

In large pot, heat the oil over a medium heat. Fry the onions until translucent, being careful not to let them brown too much or burn.

Add pumpkin, carrot, garlic and stock to pot. Bring to boil, then lower heat to a simmer and cover with lid. Cook for 20 minutes, or until vegetables are falling apart.

Use a stick blender to puree the soup, or carefully transfer it to a standalone blender in batches.

Season with salt and pepper, and top with some chopped herbs to serve.