Guinean Garlic Soup

Ingredients

While the original Czech Česnečka is a garlic soup made with potatoes and served with croutons, the Guinean adaptation focuses on the flavors and ingredients commonly found in Guinean cuisine. The Guinean Garlic Soup replaces the potatoes with a base of garlic, onions, and tomatoes, and incorporates local spices and herbs to enhance the flavors. The result is a soup that captures the essence of Guinean cuisine while still maintaining the comforting and nourishing qualities of the original dish. We alse have the original recipe for Česnečka, so you can check it out.

• 1 head of garlic, cloves separated and minced 1 head of garlic, cloves separated and minced
• 2 onions, finely chopped 2 onions, finely chopped
• 3 tomatoes, diced 3 tomatoes, diced
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon ground paprika 1 teaspoon ground paprika
• 1 bay leaf 1 bay leaf
• 4 cups (950ml) vegetable broth 4 cups (950ml) vegetable broth
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 180 kcal / 753 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 8g, 1g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 24g, 10g
• Protein: 4g
• Fiber: 5g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat.
2. 2.
   Add the minced garlic and chopped onions to the pot and sauté until fragrant and golden brown.
3. 3.
   Stir in the diced tomatoes, ground ginger, ground coriander, ground paprika, and bay leaf. Cook for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
4. 4.
   Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the soup to a boil. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to develop.
5. 5.
   Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste.
6. 6.
   Remove the bay leaf from the soup.
7. 7.
   Serve the Guinean Garlic Soup hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Garlic — Make sure to mince the garlic finely to release its full flavor.
• Tomatoes — Use ripe and juicy tomatoes for the best taste and texture.
• Vegetable broth — If you prefer a richer flavor, you can use homemade vegetable broth or add a vegetable bouillon cube to store-bought broth.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the soup.
• Serve the Guinean Garlic Soup with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for a tangy twist.
• If you prefer a smoother texture, you can blend the soup using an immersion blender before serving.
• Customize the soup by adding your favorite vegetables such as carrots or bell peppers.
• Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop before serving.

Serving advice

Serve the Guinean Garlic Soup hot in individual bowls. Accompany it with crusty bread for dipping and savoring the flavors.

Presentation advice

Garnish each bowl of Guinean Garlic Soup with a sprinkle of fresh parsley to add a pop of color and freshness.