Telugu-style Shchi

Ingredients

In the Telugu-style Shchi, we incorporate Telugu spices such as mustard seeds, curry leaves, and red chili powder to add a spicy and flavorful twist to the traditional Russian Shchi. Additionally, we use a tomato-based broth instead of the traditional cabbage-based broth, giving the soup a tangy and vibrant taste. We alse have the original recipe for Shchi, so you can check it out.

• 2 tablespoons (30ml) oil 2 tablespoons (30ml) oil
• 1 teaspoon mustard seeds 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
• 1 sprig curry leaves 1 sprig curry leaves
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 tomatoes, diced 2 tomatoes, diced
• 1 teaspoon red chili powder 1 teaspoon red chili powder
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin powder 1 teaspoon cumin powder
• 1 teaspoon coriander powder 1 teaspoon coriander powder
• 1 small cabbage, shredded 1 small cabbage, shredded
• 2 carrots, diced 2 carrots, diced
• 2 potatoes, diced 2 potatoes, diced
• Salt to taste Salt to taste
• Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 180 kcal / 753 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 8g, 1g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 25g, 8g
• Protein: 4g
• Fiber: 6g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add mustard seeds and curry leaves, and let them splutter.
2. 2.
   Add chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.
3. 3.
   Add diced tomatoes and cook until they turn soft and mushy.
4. 4.
   Stir in red chili powder, turmeric powder, cumin powder, and coriander powder. Cook for a minute to release the flavors.
5. 5.
   Add shredded cabbage, diced carrots, and potatoes to the pot. Mix well to coat the vegetables with the spices.
6. 6.
   Pour enough water to cover the vegetables and bring the soup to a boil.
7. 7.
   Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for about 20-25 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
8. 8.
   Season with salt to taste and garnish with fresh cilantro leaves.
9. 9.
   Serve hot and enjoy the flavorful Telugu-style Shchi.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Mustard seeds — Toast the mustard seeds in a dry pan before using them in the recipe to enhance their flavor.
• Curry leaves — If fresh curry leaves are not available, you can use dried curry leaves as a substitute. However, fresh curry leaves provide a more aromatic flavor.

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 customize the soup to your liking.
• Serve Telugu-style Shchi with steamed rice or Indian bread for a complete meal.
• To make the soup more filling, you can add cooked lentils or chickpeas.
• Adjust the consistency of the soup by adding more water if desired.

Serving advice

Telugu-style Shchi is best served hot in individual bowls. Garnish each bowl with fresh cilantro leaves for added freshness and aroma. Serve with steamed rice or Indian bread for a wholesome and satisfying meal.

Presentation advice

To enhance the presentation of Telugu-style Shchi, serve it in colorful ceramic bowls or soup tureens. Sprinkle some red chili powder or paprika on top of the soup for an extra pop of color. Accompany the soup with a side of freshly baked bread or papadums for a visually appealing and delicious meal.