Cucumber Soup Recipe from Guatemala with Yogurt and Red Bell Pepper

Cucumber Soup

Cucumber Soup Recipe from Guatemala with Yogurt and Red Bell Pepper
Region / culture: Guatemala | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 25 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Cucumber Soup
Cucumber Soup

Cucumber soup is a refreshing and light dish that is perfect for a hot summer day. This chilled soup is packed with fresh vegetables and herbs, making it a healthy and delicious option for a light meal or appetizer.

History

Cucumber soup has been enjoyed for centuries in various cultures around the world. It is believed to have originated in Eastern Europe, where cucumbers are a popular ingredient in many dishes. Over time, different variations of cucumber soup have emerged, each with its own unique twist on the classic recipe.

Ingredients

How to prepare

  1. In a large saucepan, heat the oil over medium heat.
  2. Add the cucumbers, onion, and red pepper.
  3. Cook until all the vegetables are tender, about 15 minutes.
  4. Stir in the chicken broth and simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  5. Remove from heat.
  6. In a blender or food processor, blend the soup until smooth and then return it to the saucepan.
  7. Bring to a simmer and season to taste with salt (optional) and pepper.
  8. Serve hot, topped with a tablespoon of yogurt and a sprinkle of parsley.

Variations

  • Add a squeeze of lemon juice for a citrusy twist.
  • Garnish with fresh dill or mint for added flavor.
  • Stir in some diced avocado for a creamy texture.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to use fresh cucumbers for the best flavor in this soup.

- You can use either English cucumbers or regular cucumbers for this recipe.

- For a smoother texture, you can strain the soup after blending to remove any remaining chunks.

- Adjust the seasoning to your taste preferences by adding more salt, pepper, or herbs as needed.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this cucumber soup chilled with a side of crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to cook the vegetables until they are tender before blending to ensure a smooth consistency.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use Greek yogurt instead of plain yogurt for a creamier texture.

- Substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth for a vegetarian option.

Make Ahead Tips

This soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Presentation Ideas

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

Pairing Recommendations

Pair this cucumber soup with a crisp white wine or a sparkling water with a slice of lemon for a refreshing combination.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

120 per serving

Carbohydrates

12g per serving

Fats

5g per serving

Proteins

3g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

This soup is rich in vitamins A and C, as well as potassium and magnesium.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (yogurt) and is not suitable for those with dairy allergies.

Summary

This cucumber soup is a low-calorie, nutrient-rich dish that is perfect for a light and healthy meal.

Summary

- Cucumber soup is a light and refreshing dish that is perfect for a hot summer day. Packed with fresh vegetables and herbs, this chilled soup is a healthy and delicious option for a light meal or appetizer. Serve it with a side of crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete and satisfying meal.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I knew it was something I had to make. It was a hot summer day, and I had been searching through my collection of cookbooks for a refreshing and light dish to serve for dinner. As soon as I came across the recipe for Cucumber Soup, I was intrigued by its simplicity and unique combination of flavors.

The recipe called for only a handful of ingredients – fresh cucumbers, yogurt, mint, and lemon juice – but the result was a smooth and creamy soup that was both cooling and satisfying. I had never tried anything like it before, and I was eager to give it a go.

I remembered the first time I had tasted cucumber soup. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl living in the countryside with my grandmother. She was a fantastic cook, and she had a knack for turning simple ingredients into delicious meals. One hot summer day, she had prepared a batch of cucumber soup from scratch, using cucumbers from her garden. I remember sitting at the kitchen table, watching her peel and chop the cucumbers with practiced ease. The refreshing aroma of fresh mint and lemon filled the air as she added them to the blender, along with a dollop of creamy yogurt. The result was a silky smooth soup that was both light and flavorful, perfect for a hot summer day.

I had watched my grandmother closely as she made the soup, taking mental notes of her technique and the way she seasoned it to perfection. She had always encouraged me to experiment in the kitchen and to try new recipes, and I had learned a great deal from her over the years.

As I read through the recipe for Cucumber Soup, I could hear my grandmother's voice in my head, guiding me through the steps and urging me to trust my instincts. I knew that I had to make this soup, not only for the delicious flavors it promised, but also as a way to honor my grandmother and the culinary skills she had passed down to me.

I gathered the ingredients I needed – crisp cucumbers, tangy yogurt, fragrant mint, and a bright lemon – and set to work in the kitchen. I followed the recipe carefully, blending the cucumbers with the yogurt, mint, and lemon juice until the mixture was smooth and creamy. I tasted the soup, adjusting the seasonings until it was just right.

When I finally sat down to enjoy a bowl of the finished soup, I was transported back to that summer day with my grandmother, savoring the cool and refreshing flavors that brought back so many memories. The soup was a success, and I knew that it would become a staple in my own recipe repertoire.

Over the years, I have made Cucumber Soup many times, tweaking the recipe here and there to suit my tastes and experimenting with different variations. I have shared the recipe with friends and family, who have all raved about its light and refreshing qualities. Each time I make the soup, I am reminded of my grandmother and the joy of cooking that she instilled in me.

In a way, this recipe for Cucumber Soup is more than just a dish – it is a connection to my past, a tribute to my grandmother, and a reminder of the power of food to bring people together. I will always cherish the memories of that hot summer day in the countryside, watching my grandmother make cucumber soup with love and care. And I will continue to make this soup for years to come, passing down the recipe and the story behind it to future generations.

Categories

| Chicken Stock And Broth Recipes | Cucumber Recipes | Guatemalan Recipes | Guatemalan Soups | Onion Recipes | Red Bell Pepper Recipes | Yogurt Recipes |

Recipes with the same ingredients

(5) Chanahi
(5) Mahshy