African-inspired Beetroot Soup

Ingredients

This African-inspired Beetroot Soup differs from the original Šaltibarščiai in its use of African spices and flavor profiles. While the original Lithuanian dish is traditionally served cold and features ingredients like sour cream and dill, this adaptation incorporates warm spices like cumin, coriander, and paprika to infuse the soup with African flavors. Additionally, the use of yogurt instead of sour cream adds a tangy creaminess to the soup, while the garnishes of chopped herbs and olive oil provide a fresh and aromatic touch. We alse have the original recipe for Šaltibarščiai, so you can check it out.

• 4 medium-sized beets, peeled and diced (500g / 1.1 lb) 4 medium-sized beets, peeled and diced (500g / 1.1 lb)
• 1 cucumber, peeled, seeded, and diced 1 cucumber, peeled, seeded, and diced
• 1 red onion, finely chopped 1 red onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon paprika
• 4 cups (950ml) vegetable broth 4 cups (950ml) vegetable broth
• 1 cup (240ml) plain yogurt 1 cup (240ml) plain yogurt
• Juice of 1 lemon Juice of 1 lemon
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh herbs (such as parsley or cilantro), chopped, for garnish Fresh herbs (such as parsley or cilantro), chopped, for garnish
• Olive oil, for drizzling Olive oil, for drizzling

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 150 kcal / 628 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 4g, 1g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 24g, 14g
• Protein: 6g
• Fiber: 6g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large pot, heat some olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped red onion and minced garlic, and sauté until fragrant and translucent.
2. 2.
   Add the diced beets, cucumber, ground cumin, ground coriander, and paprika to the pot. Stir well to coat the vegetables with the spices.
3. 3.
   Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for about 20 minutes or until the beets are tender.
4. 4.
   Remove the pot from the heat and let the soup cool slightly.
5. 5.
   Using an immersion blender or a regular blender, puree the soup until smooth.
6. 6.
   Stir in the plain yogurt and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. 7.
   Transfer the soup to the refrigerator and chill for at least 2 hours before serving.
8. 8.
   When ready to serve, ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with chopped fresh herbs. Drizzle with olive oil for an extra touch of flavor.
9. 9.
   Enjoy this African-inspired Beetroot Soup chilled, savoring the harmonious blend of flavors and the vibrant colors of the dish.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Beets — Make sure to wear gloves while handling beets to prevent staining your hands. If you prefer a smoother texture, you can peel the beets before dicing them.
• Cucumber — Removing the seeds from the cucumber helps maintain a smoother consistency in the soup.
• Yogurt — Choose a plain yogurt with a creamy texture for the best results. Greek yogurt or plant-based yogurt are suitable options.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the soup.
• Adjust the consistency of the soup by adding more vegetable broth if desired.
• Serve the soup with a side of crusty bread or African flatbread for a complete meal.
• Experiment with different herbs for garnish, such as mint or basil, to add a unique twist to the flavors.
• If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of spices used in the recipe.

Serving advice

Serve the African-inspired Beetroot Soup chilled in individual bowls. For an extra touch of elegance, garnish each bowl with a sprig of fresh herbs and a drizzle of olive oil. Accompany the soup with a side of crusty bread or African flatbread for a satisfying and well-rounded meal.

Presentation advice

To enhance the presentation of the African-inspired Beetroot Soup, use white or colorful bowls that contrast with the vibrant red color of the soup. Sprinkle the chopped fresh herbs on top of the soup in an artistic manner, and drizzle the olive oil in a circular pattern for an eye-catching effect. Serve the soup on a wooden or ceramic platter to add a rustic touch to the presentation.