Creamy Yogurt Soup with Herbs and Rice

Ingredients

• 4 cups (950ml) plain yogurt 4 cups (950ml) plain yogurt
• 1/2 cup (100g) rice 1/2 cup (100g) rice
• 4 cups (950ml) vegetable broth 4 cups (950ml) vegetable broth
• 1/2 cup (120ml) water 1/2 cup (120ml) water
• 1/2 cup (15g) fresh dill, chopped 1/2 cup (15g) fresh dill, chopped
• 1/4 cup (10g) fresh mint leaves, chopped 1/4 cup (10g) fresh mint leaves, chopped
• 1/4 cup (10g) fresh cilantro, chopped 1/4 cup (10g) fresh cilantro, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon (15ml) olive oil 1 tablespoon (15ml) olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 180 kcal / 753 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 5g, 2g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 25g, 8g
• Protein: 9g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large pot, combine the yogurt, vegetable broth, and water. Whisk until smooth.
2. 2.
   Add the rice to the pot and bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat.
3. 3.
   Reduce the heat to low and simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and tender.
4. 4.
   In a separate pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
5. 5.
   Add the chopped herbs (dill, mint, and cilantro) to the pan and sauté for an additional 2 minutes.
6. 6.
   Transfer the herb mixture to the pot of soup and stir well to combine.
7. 7.
   Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. 8.
   Simmer the soup for another 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
9. 9.
   Remove from heat and let the soup cool slightly before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Rice — Rinse the rice thoroughly before adding it to the soup to remove excess starch and ensure a fluffy texture.
• Fresh herbs — Chop the herbs just before adding them to the soup to preserve their vibrant flavors and aromas.

Tips & Tricks

• For a creamier texture, you can blend half of the soup using an immersion blender before adding the herb mixture.
• Adjust the amount of herbs according to your preference for a stronger or milder herb flavor.
• Serve the Dovga chilled for a refreshing summer soup or warm during colder months.

Serving advice

Serve the Creamy Dovga in bowls, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh herbs. It can be enjoyed as a light lunch or dinner, accompanied by crusty bread or traditional Azerbaijani flatbread.

Presentation advice

To enhance the presentation, drizzle a swirl of olive oil on top of each serving and sprinkle some freshly ground black pepper. Serve the soup in colorful ceramic bowls to showcase the vibrant green color of the herbs.