Cold Cucumber Soup II

Cold Cucumber Soup II Recipe from Panama - Ingredients & Steps

Region / culture: Panama | Preparation time: 45 minutes | Cooking time: 50 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Cold cucumber soup is a refreshing and light dish that is perfect for hot summer days. This chilled soup is packed with fresh cucumber flavor and is a great way to cool down while enjoying a nutritious meal.

History

Cold cucumber soup has been enjoyed for centuries in various cultures around the world. Cucumbers are known for their cooling properties, making them a popular ingredient in dishes meant to beat the heat. This particular recipe combines the crispness of cucumbers with the creaminess of light cream to create a delicious and satisfying soup.

Ingredients

1 tbsp butter
2 cucumbers, peeled and sliced
1 cucumber, peeled, seeded, and diced
1 tbsp chopped fresh dill
1 leek, white part only, sliced
1 bay leaf
1 tbsp all-purpose flour
3 cups fresh chicken stock
1 tbsp salt
white pepper to taste
1 cup light cream
1.5 lemons, juiced
1 tbsp honey (optional)

How to prepare

Heat butter in a large, heavy-bottomed saucepan and sauté two sliced cucumbers gently over low heat for 3 – 4 minutes.
Add dill, leek, and bay leaf, and cook over low heat for 20 minutes until the cucumbers are tender.
Stir in flour until it is absorbed.
Add stock and salt, and simmer gently for 30 minutes more.
Let the mixture cool for 30 minutes, and then puree it in a blender, 0.5 at a time.
Return the mixture to the pan or place it in a refrigerator container with a tight cover, adding white pepper if desired.
Chill for at least one hour.
Stir in diced cucumber.

Variations

For a vegan version, you can substitute the butter and cream with olive oil and coconut milk.
Add a handful of fresh mint leaves to the soup for a different flavor profile.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to peel and seed the cucumbers before using them in the soup to ensure a smooth texture.

- For a more intense flavor, you can add a clove of garlic or a small onion to the soup while cooking.

- Adjust the amount of honey to your taste preference – some may prefer a slightly sweeter soup while others may enjoy it more savory.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the cold cucumber soup with a dollop of Greek yogurt and a sprinkle of fresh dill on top for added flavor.

Cooking Techniques

Pureeing the soup in a blender creates a smooth and creamy texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have leeks, you can use onions as a substitute.

- You can use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock for a vegetarian option.

Make Ahead Tips

This soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the soup with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of paprika for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

This cold cucumber soup pairs well with a light salad or a crusty baguette.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

150 per serving

Carbohydrates

12g per serving

Fats

8g per serving

Proteins

4g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

This soup is rich in vitamin C, vitamin K, and potassium.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (butter and cream).

Summary

This cold cucumber soup is a low-calorie dish that is rich in vitamins and minerals. It is a great option for those looking for a light and refreshing meal.

Summary

This cold cucumber soup is a delicious and nutritious dish that is perfect for hot summer days. Packed with fresh cucumber flavor and creamy light cream, this soup is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was captivated by its simplicity. A refreshing and light cold cucumber soup that was perfect for those hot summer days. I had always been a fan of cucumbers, so I knew I had to give this recipe a try.

I first learned how to make Cold Cucumber Soup II from my dear friend, Mrs. Jenkins. She was a wonderful cook and always had the most delicious recipes to share. One day, she invited me over for lunch and served me a bowl of this chilled soup. I was immediately hooked.

Mrs. Jenkins graciously shared her recipe with me, explaining each step in detail. She told me that she had learned how to make the soup from her own grandmother, who had passed it down through the generations. I was touched by the history and tradition behind the recipe.

To make Cold Cucumber Soup II, you will need a few simple ingredients: cucumbers, Greek yogurt, fresh dill, garlic, lemon juice, and a touch of salt and pepper. The key to this soup is using fresh, ripe cucumbers that are bursting with flavor.

I remember the first time I made this soup for my family. They were skeptical at first, unsure of how a cold cucumber soup would taste. But as soon as they took their first bite, their faces lit up with delight. The soup was a hit, and soon became a staple in our summer meals.

Over the years, I have made some tweaks to the original recipe, adding a few extra ingredients here and there to suit my taste. I like to add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a little kick, and sometimes I garnish the soup with a dollop of sour cream and some fresh chives.

One summer, I decided to enter my Cold Cucumber Soup II in the local county fair. I was nervous, wondering if my simple soup could stand up to the competition. But when the judges tasted it, they were blown away by the flavors and presentation. I ended up winning first prize, much to my surprise and delight.

Since then, I have shared this recipe with friends and family, passing on the tradition that was handed down to me. I love seeing the smiles on their faces as they take a spoonful of the refreshing soup, just like Mrs. Jenkins did for me all those years ago.

As I sit here writing this story, I can't help but feel grateful for the knowledge and recipes that have been shared with me over the years. Cooking has always been a passion of mine, and I am honored to carry on the legacy of my ancestors through recipes like Cold Cucumber Soup II.

So if you ever find yourself in need of a simple, delicious, and refreshing soup to cool you down on a hot summer day, look no further than Cold Cucumber Soup II. I promise you won't be disappointed.