Saraiki Mushroom Soup

Ingredients

In the original Czech version of the dish, Houbová polévka, the soup is typically made with ingredients like potatoes, carrots, and cream. However, in the Saraiki adaptation, the focus is on the rich flavors of mushrooms and aromatic spices, without the addition of potatoes or cream. The Saraiki version also incorporates traditional Saraiki spices to infuse the soup with a distinct flavor profile. We alse have the original recipe for Houbová polévka, so you can check it out.

• 500g (1.1 lb) mixed mushrooms (button, shiitake, oyster) 500g (1.1 lb) mixed mushrooms (button, shiitake, oyster)
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon cumin powder 1 teaspoon cumin powder
• 1 teaspoon coriander powder 1 teaspoon coriander powder
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
• 4 cups (950ml) vegetable broth 4 cups (950ml) vegetable broth
• 2 tablespoons olive oil 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt to taste Salt to taste
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish Fresh cilantro, for garnish
• Lemon wedges, for serving Lemon wedges, for serving

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 120 kcal / 502 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 6g, 1g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 14g, 4g
• Protein: 5g
• Fiber: 3g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until they turn golden brown.
2. 2.
   Add the mushrooms to the pot and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. 3.
   Sprinkle cumin powder, coriander powder, turmeric powder, and red chili powder over the mushrooms. Stir well to coat the mushrooms with the spices.
4. 4.
   Pour the vegetable broth into the pot and bring it to a boil. Reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer for 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
5. 5.
   Season the soup with salt according to your taste.
6. 6.
   Remove the pot from heat and let it cool slightly. Use an immersion blender or a regular blender to puree the soup until smooth.
7. 7.
   Return the soup to the pot and reheat it gently.
8. 8.
   Ladle the Saraiki Mushroom Soup into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro. Serve with lemon wedges on the side.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Mushrooms — Clean the mushrooms thoroughly before using them in the soup. Remove any dirt or debris by gently wiping them with a damp cloth or brushing them with a soft brush.

Tips & Tricks

• For a creamier texture, you can add a splash of coconut milk or cashew cream to the soup before serving.
• Experiment with different types of mushrooms to add depth and complexity to the flavor profile of the soup.
• Adjust the spiciness of the soup by increasing or decreasing the amount of red chili powder according to your preference.
• Serve the soup with crusty bread or garlic naan for a satisfying meal.

Serving advice

Serve the Saraiki Mushroom Soup hot in individual bowls. Squeeze a generous amount of fresh lemon juice over each serving to enhance the flavors. Accompany the soup with a side of warm bread or naan for a complete and satisfying meal.

Presentation advice

Garnish each bowl of Saraiki Mushroom Soup with a sprig of fresh cilantro to add a pop of color. Serve the soup in beautiful ceramic bowls to showcase its vibrant hues and inviting aroma.