Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F).
Lay bacon on a rack over a baking sheet, brush with maple syrup, and sprinkle with brown sugar. Bake for 15–20 minutes until crisp and sticky.
Heat a few tablespoons of olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Sauté onions for 6–8 minutes until soft.
Stir in garam masala and ginger, cooking for another minute or two.
Add chopped parsnips and vegetable stock, bringing to a boil. Simmer for 15–20 minutes until parsnips are soft.
Blend the soup to your preferred consistency, adding water if needed to thin.
Serve in bowls, garnished with chopped maple-glazed bacon and cracked black pepper.