Kenyan Coconut Lime Gourd Soup

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons (30ml) vegetable oil 2 tablespoons (30ml) vegetable oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon (5g) curry powder 1 teaspoon (5g) curry powder
• 1 teaspoon (5g) ground cumin 1 teaspoon (5g) ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon (5g) ground coriander 1 teaspoon (5g) ground coriander
• 1 gourd (about 500g), peeled, seeded, and diced 1 gourd (about 500g), peeled, seeded, and diced
• 400ml (13.5oz) coconut milk 400ml (13.5oz) coconut milk
• 500ml (2 cups) vegetable broth 500ml (2 cups) vegetable broth
• Juice of 2 limes Juice of 2 limes
• Salt and pepper, to taste Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 250 kcal / 1046 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 20g, 15g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 15g, 8g
• Protein: 3g
• Fiber: 4g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until the onion becomes translucent.
2. 2.
   Add the curry powder, ground cumin, and ground coriander to the pot. Stir well to coat the onions and garlic with the spices.
3. 3.
   Add the diced gourd to the pot and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. 4.
   Pour in the coconut milk and vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the gourd is tender.
5. 5.
   Using an immersion blender or a regular blender, puree the soup until smooth and creamy.
6. 6.
   Stir in the lime juice and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. 7.
   Serve the Kenyan Coconut Lime Gourd Soup hot, garnished with fresh cilantro.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Gourd — Make sure to choose a fresh and firm gourd. If the seeds are too mature, remove them before dicing the gourd to avoid a bitter taste.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier version, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes.
• Adjust the consistency of the soup by adding more vegetable broth if desired.
• Serve the soup with a side of warm crusty bread for a complete meal.

Serving advice

Serve the Kenyan Coconut Lime Gourd Soup as a starter or a light main course. It pairs well with a fresh green salad or a side of steamed rice.

Presentation advice

Garnish the soup with a sprig of fresh cilantro and a drizzle of coconut milk for an elegant presentation. Serve it in individual bowls or small soup tureens to showcase the vibrant color of the soup.