Arab-Style Vegetable Soup

Ingredients

In this Arab adaptation of the Greek Hortosoupa, we incorporate traditional Arab spices such as cumin, coriander, and turmeric to enhance the flavors. Additionally, we infuse the soup with saffron, a prized ingredient in Arab cuisine, to add a touch of luxury and depth to the dish. We alse have the original recipe for Hortosoupa, so you can check it out.

• 2 tablespoons olive oil 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, diced 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 carrots, diced 2 carrots, diced
• 1 zucchini, diced 1 zucchini, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 can (400g) diced tomatoes 1 can (400g) diced tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
• A pinch of saffron threads A pinch of saffron threads
• 4 cups (950ml) vegetable broth 4 cups (950ml) vegetable broth
• 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): 8g, 1g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 24g, 10g
• Protein: 4g
• Fiber: 6g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, and sauté until translucent.
2. 2.
   Add the diced carrots, zucchini, and red bell pepper to the pot. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. 3.
   Stir in the diced tomatoes, ground cumin, ground coriander, ground turmeric, and saffron threads. Cook for another 2 minutes to allow the spices to release their flavors.
4. 4.
   Pour in the vegetable broth and season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
5. 5.
   Remove the pot from the heat and let the soup cool slightly. Using an immersion blender or a regular blender, puree the soup until smooth.
6. 6.
   Return the soup to the pot and reheat if necessary. Adjust the seasoning if needed.
7. 7.
   Serve the Arab-Style Vegetable Soup hot, garnished with fresh cilantro.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Saffron — To enhance the flavor and aroma of saffron, soak the threads in a tablespoon of warm water for 10 minutes before adding them to the soup.

Tips & Tricks

• For a heartier version, add cooked chickpeas or lentils to the soup.
• Adjust the spiciness by adding a pinch of chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
• Serve the soup with a squeeze of lemon juice for a refreshing twist.
• Feel free to customize the vegetables based on your preference and seasonal availability.
• Make a larger batch and freeze the leftovers for a quick and convenient meal option.

Serving advice

Serve the Arab-Style Vegetable Soup as a light lunch or dinner. Accompany it with warm crusty bread or pita bread for a satisfying meal.

Presentation advice

Garnish the soup with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of saffron threads for an elegant touch. Serve it in individual bowls and top each serving with a sprig of fresh cilantro.