Guyanese Apple and Bean Soup

Ingredients

In this adaptation, the traditional Italian Zuppa de Mele e Fagioli is transformed into a Guyanese delight by incorporating Guyanese spices and flavors. The original recipe uses Italian herbs and spices, while the Guyanese version adds a tropical twist with the inclusion of aromatic Guyanese spices such as curry powder and allspice. Additionally, the original recipe uses traditional Italian beans, while the Guyanese version incorporates local Guyanese beans for an authentic touch. We alse have the original recipe for Zuppa de mele e fagioli, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (400g) Guyanese red beans, soaked overnight 2 cups (400g) Guyanese red beans, soaked overnight
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon curry powder 1 teaspoon curry powder
• 1 teaspoon allspice 1 teaspoon allspice
• 2 apples, peeled, cored, and diced 2 apples, peeled, cored, and diced
• 4 cups (950ml) vegetable broth 4 cups (950ml) vegetable broth
• Salt and pepper, to taste Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 250 kcal / 1046 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 5g, 0.5g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 45g, 10g
• Protein: 10g
• Fiber: 12g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Drain and rinse the soaked Guyanese red beans.
2. 2.
   In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat.
3. 3.
   Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot and sauté until translucent.
4. 4.
   Stir in the curry powder and allspice, and cook for an additional minute to release their flavors.
5. 5.
   Add the diced apples and drained red beans to the pot, and stir to combine.
6. 6.
   Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil.
7. 7.
   Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for about 1 hour or until the beans are tender.
8. 8.
   Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste.
9. 9.
   Serve the Guyanese Apple and Bean Soup hot, garnished with fresh cilantro.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Guyanese red beans — Make sure to soak the beans overnight to ensure they cook evenly and become tender.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot pepper sauce to the soup.
• Serve the soup with a squeeze of fresh lime juice for a tangy twist.
• If you prefer a smoother texture, use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup before serving.
• Garnish the soup with toasted coconut flakes for an extra touch of Guyanese flavor.
• This soup tastes even better the next day, so consider making it in advance and reheating it for a quick and delicious meal.

Serving advice

Serve the Guyanese Apple and Bean Soup as a comforting main course alongside crusty bread or rice. It can also be served as a starter or appetizer before a larger Guyanese meal.

Presentation advice

Present the Guyanese Apple and Bean Soup in individual bowls, garnished with a sprig of fresh cilantro. Serve it with a side of crusty bread or rice to complete the meal.