Chifa-inspired Garlic Soup

Ingredients

While the original Serbian Češnjovka is a garlic soup made with simple ingredients like garlic, water, and salt, this Chifa-inspired version incorporates elements of Peruvian and Chinese cuisines. It introduces a variety of vegetables, spices, and seasonings to enhance the flavor profile and create a more complex and vibrant soup. We alse have the original recipe for Češnjovka, so you can check it out.

• 10 cloves of garlic, minced 10 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 1 carrot, diced 1 carrot, diced
• 1 bell pepper, diced 1 bell pepper, diced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon soy sauce 1 teaspoon soy sauce
• 4 cups (950ml) vegetable broth 4 cups (950ml) vegetable broth
• 1 cup (240ml) coconut milk 1 cup (240ml) coconut milk
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 180 kcal / 753 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 12g, 9g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 16g, 6g
• Protein: 3g
• Fiber: 3g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
2. 2.
   Add the chopped onion, carrot, and bell pepper to the pot. Cook until the vegetables are tender.
3. 3.
   Sprinkle the ground cumin, paprika, and soy sauce over the vegetables. Stir well to coat.
4. 4.
   Pour in the vegetable broth and coconut milk. Bring the soup to a simmer and let it cook for 15-20 minutes.
5. 5.
   Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. 6.
   Serve the Chifa-inspired garlic soup hot, garnished with fresh cilantro.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Garlic — Make sure to mince the garlic finely to release its full flavor.
• Coconut milk — Shake the can of coconut milk well before using to ensure a smooth and creamy consistency.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra kick of heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few drops of hot sauce.
• Customize the soup by adding your favorite vegetables such as corn, peas, or spinach.
• Serve the soup with a squeeze of lime juice for a refreshing twist.
• If you prefer a thicker consistency, blend a portion of the soup and then mix it back into the pot.
• Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Serving advice

Serve the Chifa-inspired garlic soup as a comforting appetizer or a light main course. Pair it with crusty bread or steamed rice for a satisfying meal.

Presentation advice

Garnish the soup with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro leaves to add a pop of color. Serve it in individual bowls or in a large soup tureen for a family-style presentation.