South Karnataka Style Garlic Soup

Ingredients

In the South Karnataka adaptation of the garlic soup, we incorporate traditional South Indian spices like mustard seeds, cumin, and curry leaves to enhance the flavor profile. Additionally, we use coconut milk to add a creamy texture and a hint of sweetness, which is not typically found in the original French version. We alse have the original recipe for Soupe à l'ail, so you can check it out.

• 1 head of garlic, cloves separated and peeled 1 head of garlic, cloves separated and peeled
• 1 large onion, finely chopped 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 tomatoes, diced 2 tomatoes, diced
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon mustard seeds 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 8-10 curry leaves 8-10 curry leaves
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon red chili powder 1 teaspoon red chili powder
• 400ml (1 ¾ cups) vegetable broth 400ml (1 ¾ cups) vegetable broth
• 200ml (¾ cup) coconut milk 200ml (¾ cup) coconut milk
• Salt to taste Salt to taste
• Fresh coriander leaves, for garnish Fresh coriander leaves, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 180 kcal / 753 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 12g, 9g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 16g, 6g
• Protein: 3g
• Fiber: 4g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Heat vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. 2.
   Add mustard seeds and cumin seeds. Allow them to splutter.
3. 3.
   Add curry leaves and sauté for a minute.
4. 4.
   Add chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden brown.
5. 5.
   Add garlic cloves and sauté for another 2 minutes.
6. 6.
   Add diced tomatoes, turmeric powder, and red chili powder. Cook until the tomatoes are soft and mushy.
7. 7.
   Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for 10 minutes.
8. 8.
   Remove the pot from heat and let it cool slightly.
9. 9.
   Using an immersion blender or a regular blender, blend the soup until smooth.
10. 10.
    Return the soup to the pot and stir in the coconut milk. Season with salt to taste.
11. 11.
    Place the pot back on the stove and heat the soup over low heat until warmed through.
12. 12.
    Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with fresh coriander leaves, and serve hot.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Garlic — To mellow the flavor of garlic, you can roast the cloves before adding them to the soup. Simply wrap the unpeeled garlic head in foil and bake at 180°C (350°F) for 30 minutes. The roasted garlic will have a sweeter and nuttier taste.
• Coconut milk — Shake the can of coconut milk well before using to ensure the cream and liquid are well combined.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier kick, add a finely chopped green chili along with the onions.
• If you prefer a thinner consistency, you can add more vegetable broth or water.
• Serve the soup with a side of crusty bread or steamed rice for a more substantial meal.
• Adjust the amount of red chili powder according to your spice preference.
• To make the soup more filling, you can add cooked lentils or chickpeas.

Serving advice

Serve the South Karnataka Style Garlic Soup hot in individual bowls. Accompany it with a side of steamed rice or crusty bread for a satisfying meal. Garnish each bowl with a sprinkle of fresh coriander leaves to add a pop of color and freshness.

Presentation advice

Present the South Karnataka Style Garlic Soup in elegant soup bowls. You can drizzle a swirl of coconut milk on top of the soup and sprinkle some toasted mustard seeds for an attractive visual appeal. Serve it alongside a plate of warm, freshly baked bread for a complete and inviting presentation.