Hot Senegalese Soup with Coriander

Hot Senegalese Soup with Coriander Recipe - Authentic African Cuisine

Region / culture: Senegal | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Hot Senegalese Soup with Coriander is a flavorful and aromatic dish that combines the rich flavors of curry, turmeric, and cayenne with the sweetness of mango chutney and the freshness of coriander. This soup is perfect for warming up on a cold day or for adding a touch of exotic flair to your dinner table.

History

This recipe is inspired by the traditional Senegalese cuisine, which is known for its bold flavors and use of fresh herbs and spices. Senegalese cuisine is a fusion of African, French, and Arabic influences, resulting in a unique and delicious culinary tradition.

Ingredients

4 cups chicken broth
1 skinless boneless chicken breast (about 10 oz / 283 g)
2 onions, chopped
1.5 cups chopped celery
0.25 cup vegetable oil
2 tbsp curry powder
2 tsp turmeric
1 pinch cayenne pepper, or to taste
0.25 cup bottled mango chutney
0.25 cup minced fresh coriander, plus 4 sprigs for garnish

How to prepare

In a small saucepan, bring the chicken broth to a boil. Poach the chicken in the broth at a bare simmer, covered, for 8 minutes or until it is springy to the touch and just cooked through.
While the chicken is poaching, cook the onion and celery in the oil over moderately-low heat in a separate saucepan. Stir occasionally until the vegetables are softened. Stir in the curry powder, turmeric, and cayenne. Cook the mixture, stirring, for 2 minutes.
Transfer the chicken to a work surface, reserving the broth. Chop the chicken. Add the reserved broth to the vegetable mixture. Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring, and simmer for 5 minutes.
In a blender or food processor, puree the mixture with the chutney and half of the chicken until the puree is very smooth. Transfer the puree back to the saucepan. Stir in the remaining chicken and heat through. Stir in the minced coriander.
Divide the soup between bowls. Garnish each serving with a coriander sprig.
This recipe yields 4 servings.

Variations

Add diced potatoes or sweet potatoes for extra heartiness.
Use shrimp or fish instead of chicken for a seafood twist.
Experiment with different herbs and spices for a unique flavor profile.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to poach the chicken gently to ensure it stays tender and juicy.

- Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to suit your taste preferences.

- For a creamier soup, you can blend the entire mixture instead of leaving some chicken chunks.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this soup with a side of crusty bread or over a bed of rice for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Poaching the chicken ensures it stays moist and tender.

- Pureeing part of the soup creates a creamy texture without the need for heavy cream.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian version.

- Substitute cilantro for coriander if desired.

Make Ahead Tips

This soup can be made ahead of time and reheated before serving. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish each bowl of soup with a sprig of fresh coriander for a pop of color and freshness.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair this soup with a crisp white wine or a fruity beer to complement the bold flavors.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Hot Senegalese Soup with Coriander contains approximately 300 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Hot Senegalese Soup with Coriander contains approximately 20 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Hot Senegalese Soup with Coriander contains approximately 12 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Hot Senegalese Soup with Coriander contains approximately 20 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

This soup is rich in vitamin A, vitamin C, iron, and calcium, thanks to the vegetables and spices used in the recipe.

Alergens

This recipe contains chicken and vegetable oil, which may be allergens for some individuals. Please check for any specific allergens before preparing this dish.

Summary

Hot Senegalese Soup with Coriander is a balanced meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, and essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Hot Senegalese Soup with Coriander is a delicious and aromatic dish that brings the flavors of Senegal to your dinner table. With a perfect balance of spices, sweetness, and freshness, this soup is sure to become a new favorite in your recipe repertoire.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the excitement I felt when I first saw this recipe for Hot Senegalese Soup with Coriander. It was a cold winter day, and I was flipping through a cooking magazine looking for new recipes to try. As soon as I saw the vibrant colors and exotic ingredients listed in the recipe, I knew I had to give it a try.

I had always been fascinated by different cuisines from around the world, and Senegalese cuisine was something I had never tried before. The combination of spicy flavors, fragrant herbs, and hearty ingredients seemed like the perfect dish to warm me up on a chilly day.

I set out to gather all the ingredients listed in the recipe, including chicken broth, tomatoes, carrots, onions, garlic, ginger, and of course, fresh coriander. As I chopped and diced the vegetables, the kitchen filled with the enticing aroma of garlic and ginger, making my mouth water in anticipation.

I followed the instructions carefully, simmering the vegetables in the chicken broth until they were tender and fragrant. The recipe called for a generous amount of coriander, which added a burst of freshness and flavor to the soup. I couldn't resist sneaking a taste of the broth as it simmered, and I was immediately blown away by the complex and delicious flavors.

As I ladled the steaming soup into bowls and garnished it with a sprinkle of fresh coriander leaves, I felt a sense of pride and accomplishment. The soup looked beautiful, with its vibrant colors and aromatic herbs, and I couldn't wait to share it with my family.

When my family sat down to dinner that night and took their first spoonfuls of the Hot Senegalese Soup with Coriander, their eyes lit up with delight. They couldn't believe how flavorful and delicious it was, and they all asked for seconds.

From that day on, Hot Senegalese Soup with Coriander became a staple in our household. Whenever the weather turned cold, or we needed a comforting and satisfying meal, I would make a big pot of the soup and watch as my family savored every spoonful.

Over the years, I have made some adjustments to the original recipe, adding my own twist here and there to suit my family's tastes. Sometimes I'll add a bit of extra spice for a kick, or throw in some chickpeas for added protein and heartiness.

But no matter how many times I make this soup, it always brings back that initial excitement and sense of discovery that I felt when I first tried the recipe. The flavors of Senegalese cuisine will always hold a special place in my heart, and I am grateful for the opportunity to share them with my loved ones.

As I sit here now, reflecting on the journey that led me to discover the joys of Hot Senegalese Soup with Coriander, I can't help but feel grateful for all the people and places that have inspired me along the way. Cooking has always been a passion of mine, and it has brought me so much joy and fulfillment over the years.

I hope that this recipe will continue to bring warmth and happiness to those who try it, just as it has done for me and my family. And who knows, maybe one day I'll pass it down to the next generation, so they too can experience the magic of this delicious and comforting soup.