Zimbabwean Lime Soup

Ingredients

In the Zimbabwean adaptation of Sopa de lima, the traditional Mexican ingredients such as tortilla strips and avocado are replaced with Zimbabwean staples like sadza and crispy bread. The spices used in the Zimbabwean version are also different, incorporating flavors commonly found in Zimbabwean cuisine such as coriander, cumin, and paprika. We alse have the original recipe for Sopa de lima, so you can check it out.

• 2 tablespoons (30ml) vegetable oil 2 tablespoons (30ml) vegetable oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 500g chicken, cut into small pieces 500g chicken, cut into small pieces
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon paprika
• 4 cups (950ml) chicken broth 4 cups (950ml) chicken broth
• Juice of 4 limes Juice of 4 limes
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish Fresh cilantro, for garnish
• Crispy bread or sadza, for serving Crispy bread or sadza, for serving

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 250 kcal / 1046 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 12g, 2g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 5g, 2g
• Protein: 28g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until they become translucent.
2. 2.
   Add the chicken pieces to the pot and cook until they are browned on all sides.
3. 3.
   Sprinkle the ground coriander, cumin, and paprika over the chicken and stir well to coat the pieces evenly.
4. 4.
   Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
5. 5.
   Stir in the lime juice and season with salt and pepper to taste. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
6. 6.
   Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro.
7. 7.
   Serve the Zimbabwean Lime Soup hot with crispy bread or sadza on the side.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Chicken — Make sure to use boneless, skinless chicken pieces for easier preparation and a healthier option.
• Lime — Squeeze fresh limes for the best flavor. Adjust the amount of lime juice according to your taste preference.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier version, add a pinch of chili flakes or a finely chopped chili pepper.
• If you prefer a thicker soup, you can add a small amount of cornstarch mixed with water to the soup and simmer until it thickens.
• Experiment with different garnishes such as sliced green onions or a dollop of sour cream for added flavor.

Serving advice

Serve the Zimbabwean Lime Soup as a starter or a light main course. Accompany it with crispy bread or sadza to complete the meal.

Presentation advice

Garnish the soup with a sprig of fresh cilantro and a lime wedge on the side of the bowl for an appealing presentation. Serve it in colorful bowls to enhance the visual appeal.