Let’s dive straight into a dish that carries a hefty punch of flavors and history – the Mulligatawny Soup. For those unacquainted, Mulligatawny is a fusion of Indian spices and British culinary practices, creating a soup that’s both vibrant and comforting. This isn’t just a soup; it’s a culinary journey through the subcontinent, adjusted to suit a milder, British palate during the colonial era.
Recipe Overview
- Course: Soup
- Cuisine: Anglo-Indian
- Total Servings: 6
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
Kitchen Equipment Needed
Before you begin crafting this flavor-packed Mulligatawny Soup, ensure you have the following kitchen tools at hand:
- Large pot
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Blender or food processor (for pureeing)
Ingredients
Ingredient | Quantity |
---|---|
Chicken breast, diced | 500g |
Vegetable oil | 2 tbsp |
Onion, chopped | 1 large |
Carrots, diced | 2 medium |
Celery stalks, diced | 2 |
Garlic, minced | 4 cloves |
Fresh ginger, minced | 1 tbsp |
Ground turmeric | 1 tsp |
Curry powder | 2 tbsp |
Cumin seeds | 1 tsp |
Chicken or vegetable broth | 6 cups |
Canned diced tomatoes | 1 can (400g) |
Apple, peeled and diced | 1 medium |
Red lentils | 1 cup |
Coconut milk | 1 cup |
Lemon juice | 2 tbsp |
Fresh cilantro, chopped | For garnishing |
Salt and pepper | To taste |
Fact: Mulligatawny means ‘pepper water’, and true to its name, this soup is known for its robust flavors and a bit of heat, making it a standout dish.
Step by Step Instructions
Step 1 – Prep the Base
- Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Sauté onions, carrots, celery, garlic, and ginger until they start to soften, about 5-7 minutes.
Adding apple to the sauté mixture brings a subtle sweetness that balances the heat from the spices.
Step 2 – Spice It Up
- Add turmeric, curry powder, and cumin seeds to the vegetables.
- Cook until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes, stirring continuously.
Toasting the spices releases their oils and maximizes their flavor, enhancing the overall taste of the soup.
Step 3 – Combine and Simmer
- Stir in the chicken, broth, tomatoes, and apple.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for 20 minutes.
Simmering helps in blending the flavors beautifully, making every spoonful rich in taste.
Step 4 – Add Lentils and Simmer
- Add red lentils to the pot.
- Continue to simmer until the lentils and vegetables are tender, about 15-20 minutes.
Lentils not only thicken the soup but also add a hearty texture and are a great source of protein.
Step 5 – Puree and Cream
- Use an immersion blender to puree the soup directly in the pot until smooth (optional).
- Stir in coconut milk and simmer for an additional 5 minutes. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
Coconut milk adds a creamy texture and a slight sweetness that contrasts well with the spicy and tangy elements of the soup.
Step 6 – Final Touches
- Remove from heat and stir in lemon juice.
- Garnish with chopped cilantro before serving.
Lemon juice adds a fresh burst of acidity that elevates the flavors of the Mulligatawny Soup.
Additional Tips
- For a vegetarian version, skip the chicken and use vegetable broth.
- Adjust the amount of curry powder based on your heat preference.
Pairing Suggestions
Serve this delightful Mulligatawny Soup with a side of naan bread or rice to soak up its rich flavors. For a refreshing contrast:
- Cucumber raita
- Crisp garden salad
Nutritional Information
Nutrient | Amount per serving |
---|---|
Calories | 250 kcal |
Protein | 18 g |
Carbohydrates | 23 g |
Fat | 11 g |
Sodium | 700 mg |
Fiber | 5 g |
Approximate values; actual nutritional content may vary.
Dietary Information
This recipe is inherently gluten-free and can be made vegan by substituting chicken for more lentils or a plant-based protein.
FAQs about Mulligatawny Soup
What is the origin of Mulligatawny Soup?
Mulligatawny Soup originated from South Indian cuisine, adapted by the British.
Can I freeze Mulligatawny Soup?
Yes, it freezes well. Store in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
What are the best spices for Mulligatawny Soup?
Curry powder and turmeric are essential for the authentic taste.
How can I make a creamier Mulligatawny Soup?
Increase the amount of coconut milk for a richer texture.
Is Mulligatawny Soup healthy?
It is rich in proteins and vitamins, making it a healthy choice.
Can I use beef instead of chicken in Mulligatawny Soup?
For a halal version, stick to chicken or vegetable bases.
What makes Mulligatawny Soup unique?
Its blend of Indian spices and British cooking techniques makes it unique.
Conclusion
This Mulligatawny Soup recipe not only warms the belly but also offers a delightful exploration of flavors. Each spoonful promises a burst of warmth and comfort, making it perfect for any meal.
If you have any comments, questions, or feedback, feel free to drop them below!
Check out some more delicious soup recipes:
- Consome de Pollo Recipe
- Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe
- Escarole Bean Soup Recipe
- Rafferty’s Potato Soup Recipe
- Bill Millers Soup Recipe
- Eat n Park Potato Soup Recipe
Mulligatawny Soup Recipe
Equipment
- Large pot
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Blender or food processor (for pureeing)
Ingredients
- 500 g Chicken breast diced
- 2 tbsp Vegetable oil
- 1 large Onion chopped
- 2 medium Carrots diced
- 2 Celery stalks diced
- 4 cloves Garlic minced
- 1 tbsp Fresh ginger minced
- 1 tsp Ground turmeric
- 2 tbsp Curry powder
- 1 tsp Cumin seeds
- 6 cups Chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 can 400g Canned diced tomatoes
- 1 medium Apple peeled and diced
- 1 cup Red lentils
- 1 cup Coconut milk
- 2 tbsp Lemon juice
- For garnishing Fresh cilantro chopped
- To taste Salt and pepper
Instructions
Step 1 – Prep the Base
- Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Sauté onions, carrots, celery, garlic, and ginger until they start to soften, about 5-7 minutes.
- Adding apple to the sauté mixture brings a subtle sweetness that balances the heat from the spices.
Step 2 – Spice It Up
- Add turmeric, curry powder, and cumin seeds to the vegetables.
- Cook until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes, stirring continuously.
- Toasting the spices releases their oils and maximizes their flavor, enhancing the overall taste of the soup.
Step 3 – Combine and Simmer
- Stir in the chicken, broth, tomatoes, and apple.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for 20 minutes.
- Simmering helps in blending the flavors beautifully, making every spoonful rich in taste.
Step 4 – Add Lentils and Simmer
- Add red lentils to the pot.
- Continue to simmer until the lentils and vegetables are tender, about 15-20 minutes.
- Lentils not only thicken the soup but also add a hearty texture and are a great source of protein.
Step 5 – Puree and Cream
- Use an immersion blender to puree the soup directly in the pot until smooth (optional).
- Stir in coconut milk and simmer for an additional 5 minutes. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Coconut milk adds a creamy texture and a slight sweetness that contrasts well with the spicy and tangy elements of the soup.
Step 6 – Final Touches
- Remove from heat and stir in lemon juice.
- Garnish with chopped cilantro before serving.
- Lemon juice adds a fresh burst of acidity that elevates the flavors of the Mulligatawny Soup.
Notes
- For a vegetarian version, skip the chicken and use vegetable broth.
- Adjust the amount of curry powder based on your heat preference.
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