How to Make Indian Soup with Asparagus and Spices
Indian soup is a delightful blend of flavors and textures that can warm your heart and satisfy your taste buds. One unique variation is Indian soup with asparagus and spices. This dish not only incorporates the fresh, earthy taste of asparagus but also uses a variety of spices that are synonymous with Indian cuisine. Follow this simple recipe to create a healthy and flavorful soup that will transport you to the vibrant streets of India.
Ingredients
- 1 bunch of fresh asparagus, trimmed and chopped
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2-3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1-inch piece of ginger, grated
- 1-2 green chilies, slit (adjust to your heat preference)
- 1 tsp cumin seeds
- 1 tsp coriander powder
- ½ tsp turmeric powder
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- Salt to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil or ghee
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
- Juice of 1 lemon
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Start by washing the asparagus thoroughly and cutting it into 1-inch pieces. Chop the onion, mince the garlic, and grate the ginger. Set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot, heat the olive oil or ghee over medium heat. Once hot, add cumin seeds and let them sizzle for about 30 seconds. Then, add the chopped onion and sauté until it turns translucent. Add the garlic, ginger, and green chilies, cooking for an additional 2 minutes until fragrant.
Step 3: Add the Spices
Sprinkle in the coriander powder, turmeric powder, and salt. Stir well to coat the onions and cook the spices for another minute, allowing their flavors to develop.
Step 4: Cook the Asparagus
Add the chopped asparagus to the pot, mixing it with the onion and spice mixture. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes, letting the asparagus soften slightly.
Step 5: Add Broth and Simmer
Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth, stirring to combine. Increase the heat and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the asparagus is tender.
Step 6: Blend the Soup
Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. If you prefer a chunkier texture, you can reserve some asparagus pieces before blending and add them back in afterward. If you don’t have an immersion blender, carefully transfer the soup to a blender in batches and blend until smooth.
Step 7: Final Touches
After blending, taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Stir in the lemon juice for a bright finish. Serve the soup hot, garnished with fresh cilantro for a touch of color and freshness.
Serving Suggestions
This Indian asparagus soup pairs wonderfully with a side of warm naan or basmati rice. For an added twist, consider serving it with a dollop of yogurt or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for extra heat. Enjoy the wholesome goodness and aromatic spices that this soup brings to your table.
Now that you know how to make Indian soup with asparagus and spices, you can impress family and friends with your culinary skills while savoring the unique flavors of India!