Congolese Vegetable Soup

Ingredients

This Congolese adaptation of the Finnish Kasvissosekeitto incorporates traditional Congolese spices and ingredients, such as palm oil and aromatic Congolese spices, to infuse the soup with a unique flavor profile. Additionally, the Congolese version may include different vegetables commonly found in Congolese cuisine, such as okra or cassava leaves, to add an authentic touch. We alse have the original recipe for Kasvissosekeitto, so you can check it out.

• 2 tablespoons palm oil 2 tablespoons palm oil
• 1 onion, diced 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 carrots, peeled and diced 2 carrots, peeled and diced
• 2 potatoes, peeled and diced 2 potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 cup peas 1 cup peas
• 4 cups vegetable broth 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon paprika
• 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, 2g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 24g, 6g
• Protein: 4g
• Fiber: 5g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large pot, heat the palm oil over medium heat.
2. 2.
   Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot and sauté until fragrant and translucent.
3. 3.
   Add the diced carrots, potatoes, and peas to the pot and cook for a few minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. 4.
   Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil.
5. 5.
   Reduce the heat to low and simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
6. 6.
   Stir in the ground coriander, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Adjust the seasonings according to your taste.
7. 7.
   Using an immersion blender or a regular blender, puree the soup until smooth and creamy.
8. 8.
   Return the soup to the pot and heat over low heat until warmed through.
9. 9.
   Serve the Congolese Vegetable Soup hot, garnished with fresh cilantro.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Palm oil — Make sure to use sustainably sourced palm oil. If palm oil is not available, you can substitute it with coconut oil for a similar flavor.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier version, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a chopped chili pepper.
• Feel free to customize the vegetables according to your preference or seasonal availability.
• Serve the soup with a side of warm crusty bread for a complete meal.
• To make the soup even creamier, add a splash of coconut milk or cashew cream.
• Garnish the soup with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for a burst of acidity.

Serving advice

Serve the Congolese Vegetable Soup hot in individual bowls. Accompany it with a side of warm crusty bread or steamed rice for a satisfying meal.

Presentation advice

To enhance the presentation, drizzle a swirl of palm oil on top of the soup and garnish with a sprig of fresh cilantro. Serve the soup in colorful ceramic bowls to showcase the vibrant colors of the vegetables.