Chechen-style Spicy Noodle Soup

Ingredients

While the original Katong laksa from Singapore is a coconut-based curry noodle soup, Chechen-style Spicy Noodle Soup takes a different approach. It embraces the bold and spicy flavors of Chechen cuisine, using traditional spices like coriander, cumin, and paprika. The soup is also made with rice noodles instead of the traditional laksa noodles, giving it a unique texture. We alse have the original recipe for Katong laksa, so you can check it out.

• 500g (1.1 lb) chicken or beef, thinly sliced 500g (1.1 lb) chicken or beef, thinly sliced
• 200g (7 oz) rice noodles 200g (7 oz) rice noodles
• 2 carrots, julienned 2 carrots, julienned
• 1 bell pepper, thinly sliced 1 bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1 onion, thinly sliced 1 onion, thinly sliced
• 4 cloves of garlic, minced 4 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 tablespoon coriander powder 1 tablespoon coriander powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin powder 1 teaspoon cumin powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon chili flakes (adjust to taste) 1 teaspoon chili flakes (adjust to taste)
• 1 liter (4 cups) chicken or beef broth 1 liter (4 cups) chicken or beef broth
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro and lemon wedges for garnish Fresh cilantro and lemon wedges for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 350 kcal / 1465 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 12g, 3g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 25g, 4g
• Protein: 30g
• Fiber: 4g
• Salt: 2g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
2. 2.
   Add the sliced chicken or beef to the pot and cook until browned.
3. 3.
   Stir in the coriander powder, cumin powder, paprika, and chili flakes. Cook for another minute to toast the spices.
4. 4.
   Add the julienned carrots, sliced bell pepper, and onion to the pot. Cook for a few minutes until the vegetables start to soften.
5. 5.
   Pour in the chicken or beef broth and bring the soup to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
6. 6.
   Meanwhile, cook the rice noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
7. 7.
   Once the soup has simmered, season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. 8.
   To serve, divide the cooked rice noodles among serving bowls. Ladle the hot soup over the noodles.
9. 9.
   Garnish with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lemon juice.
10. 10.
    Enjoy the Chechen-style Spicy Noodle Soup while it's hot!

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Rice noodles — Be sure not to overcook the rice noodles as they can become mushy. Follow the package instructions for the best results.
• Coriander powder — If you prefer a stronger coriander flavor, you can toast whole coriander seeds and grind them into a powder before using.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra kick of heat, add more chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
• Customize the soup by adding your favorite vegetables or protein options.
• Adjust the spice levels according to your preference by increasing or decreasing the amount of chili flakes.

Serving advice

Serve the Chechen-style Spicy Noodle Soup hot in individual bowls. Accompany it with a side of fresh bread or naan for a complete meal.

Presentation advice

Garnish each bowl of soup with a sprig of fresh cilantro and a lemon wedge. The vibrant colors of the vegetables and the aromatic herbs will make the dish visually appealing.