Hyderabadi-style Minestra Maritata

Ingredients

In the Hyderabadi adaptation of Minestra Maritata, the traditional Italian flavors are enhanced with the bold and spicy elements of Hyderabadi cuisine. The addition of Indian spices such as garam masala and red chili powder gives the soup a fiery kick, while the use of coconut milk adds a touch of sweetness and creaminess. Fresh curry leaves and mint leaves are also added to infuse the soup with a refreshing and aromatic note, creating a unique fusion of flavors. We alse have the original recipe for Minestra maritata, so you can check it out.

• 500g (1.1 lb) minced chicken 500g (1.1 lb) minced chicken
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ginger paste 1 teaspoon ginger paste
• 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 garam masala 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
• 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
• Salt to taste Salt to taste
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 onion, finely sliced 1 onion, finely sliced
• 2 tomatoes, chopped 2 tomatoes, chopped
• 1 carrot, diced 1 carrot, diced
• 1 cup chopped spinach 1 cup chopped spinach
• 1 cup chopped cabbage 1 cup chopped cabbage
• 1/2 cup coconut milk 1/2 cup coconut milk
• Handful of fresh curry leaves Handful of fresh curry leaves
• Handful of fresh mint leaves Handful of fresh mint leaves
• Lemon wedges, for serving Lemon wedges, for serving

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 320 kcal / 1340 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 18g, 5g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 12g, 4g
• Protein: 28g
• Fiber: 4g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large bowl, combine the minced chicken, breadcrumbs, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, ginger paste, cumin powder, coriander powder, turmeric powder, garam masala, red chili powder, and salt. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated.
2. 2.
   Shape the mixture into small meatballs and set aside.
3. 3.
   Heat vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the finely sliced onion and sauté until golden brown.
4. 4.
   Add the chopped tomatoes and cook until they soften and release their juices.
5. 5.
   Add the diced carrot, chopped spinach, and chopped cabbage to the pot. Stir well to combine.
6. 6.
   Pour in the coconut milk and add the fresh curry leaves and mint leaves. Stir again.
7. 7.
   Gently drop the meatballs into the pot and bring the soup to a simmer.
8. 8.
   Cover the pot and let the soup cook for about 20 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
9. 9.
   Serve the Hyderabadi-style Minestra Maritata hot, garnished with fresh mint leaves and accompanied by lemon wedges for squeezing over the soup.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Chicken — Make sure the minced chicken is fresh and properly cooked to ensure food safety.
• Fresh curry leaves — If fresh curry leaves are not available, you can use dried curry leaves as a substitute. However, the flavor may not be as vibrant.
• Mint leaves — Use fresh mint leaves for the best flavor. If you don't have fresh mint, you can use dried mint leaves, but reduce the quantity as dried mint is more potent.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier version, increase the amount of red chili powder according to your taste preference.
• You can add other vegetables like bell peppers or green beans to the soup for added texture and flavor.
• Serve the soup with warm naan bread or steamed rice for a complete meal.
• Adjust the consistency of the soup by adding more coconut milk or water, depending on your preference.
• Make a larger batch of meatballs and freeze them for future use in other recipes like curries or sandwiches.

Serving advice

Serve the Hyderabadi-style Minestra Maritata hot in individual bowls. Garnish each bowl with fresh mint leaves and provide lemon wedges on the side for squeezing over the soup. Accompany the soup with warm naan bread or steamed rice for a satisfying meal.

Presentation advice

Present the Hyderabadi-style Minestra Maritata in a vibrant and colorful manner. Use contrasting bowls to showcase the rich golden broth and the colorful vegetables. Garnish each bowl with a sprig of fresh mint leaves for an added touch of freshness.