Guinea-Bissauan Onion Soup

Ingredients

In this adaptation, the German Badische Zwiebelsuppe is transformed into a Guinea-Bissauan delight by incorporating traditional flavors and ingredients. The original recipe is enhanced with the addition of Guinea-Bissauan spices, such as piri-piri, and local herbs to create a distinct flavor profile. The soup is also garnished with fresh herbs commonly used in Guinea-Bissauan cuisine, giving it a unique twist. We alse have the original recipe for Badische Zwiebelsuppe, so you can check it out.

• 4 large onions, thinly sliced 4 large onions, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon piri-piri spice (or substitute with cayenne pepper) 1 teaspoon piri-piri spice (or substitute with cayenne pepper)
• 4 cups (950ml) beef or vegetable broth 4 cups (950ml) beef or vegetable broth
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 bay leaf 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, for garnish Fresh parsley, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 180 kcal / 753 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 8g, 1g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 24g, 12g
• Protein: 4g
• Fiber: 4g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook until caramelized, stirring occasionally, for about 20 minutes.
2. 2.
   Add the minced garlic, ground coriander, ground cumin, and piri-piri spice to the pot. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to allow the spices to release their flavors.
3. 3.
   Pour in the beef or vegetable broth and add the tomato paste and bay leaf. Stir well to combine.
4. 4.
   Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
5. 5.
   Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. 6.
   Remove the bay leaf from the soup.
7. 7.
   Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley.
8. 8.
   Serve hot and enjoy!

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Onions — Make sure to thinly slice the onions to ensure they caramelize evenly and add a sweet flavor to the soup.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier version, increase the amount of piri-piri spice or add a dash of hot sauce.
• Serve the soup with crusty bread on the side for a complete meal.
• If you prefer a smoother texture, use an immersion blender to puree the soup before serving.
• Experiment with different herbs for garnish, such as cilantro or mint, to add a unique twist to the soup.
• Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated when ready to serve.

Serving advice

Serve the Guinea-Bissauan Onion Soup as a comforting appetizer or as a main course accompanied by a side of crusty bread. The flavors develop even more when the soup is allowed to sit for a while, so it's perfect for making ahead of time for gatherings or cozy nights at home.

Presentation advice

Garnish each bowl of soup with a sprig of fresh parsley to add a pop of color. Serve the soup in rustic bowls or mugs to enhance the cozy and comforting feel of the dish.