Iraqi-inspired Vegetable Soup

Ingredients

While the original Finnish Kalakeitto is a fish-based soup, this Iraqi-inspired version is completely vegetarian, making it suitable for a wider range of diets. The flavors have been adapted to incorporate traditional Iraqi spices and ingredients, such as saffron, cumin, and turmeric, to infuse the soup with Middle Eastern flair. The result is a unique and flavorful twist on the classic Finnish dish. We alse have the original recipe for Kalakeitto, so you can check it out.

• 2 tablespoons (30ml) olive oil 2 tablespoons (30ml) olive oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 carrots, diced 2 carrots, diced
• 2 potatoes, peeled and cubed 2 potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1 cup (150g) green beans, trimmed and cut into bite-sized pieces 1 cup (150g) green beans, trimmed and cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1/4 teaspoon saffron threads 1/4 teaspoon saffron threads
• 4 cups (950ml) vegetable broth 4 cups (950ml) vegetable broth
• Salt and pepper, to taste Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, for garnish Fresh parsley, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 180 kcal / 753 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 7g, 1g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 26g, 6g
• Protein: 4g
• Fiber: 5g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until the onion becomes translucent.
2. 2.
   Add the diced carrots, cubed potatoes, and green beans to the pot. Stir in the ground cumin, ground turmeric, and saffron threads, and cook for a few minutes to allow the spices to release their flavors.
3. 3.
   Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the soup to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
4. 4.
   Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley.
5. 5.
   Serve hot and enjoy the comforting flavors of this Iraqi-inspired vegetable soup.

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, you can add cooked chickpeas or lentils to the soup.
• Adjust the spices according to your preference. If you enjoy a spicier soup, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes.
• Serve the soup with warm crusty bread for a complete meal.

Serving advice

Serve the Iraqi-inspired vegetable soup hot in individual bowls. Garnish each bowl with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color and added freshness. Accompany the soup with warm crusty bread for a satisfying and comforting meal.

Presentation advice

To elevate the presentation of the soup, consider serving it in colorful ceramic bowls or soup tureens. You can also drizzle a swirl of olive oil on top of each bowl and sprinkle some additional saffron threads for an elegant touch.