Spiced Dhal Soup

Spiced Dhal Soup Recipe from Fiji | Vegetarian Recipe

Region / culture: Fiji | Servings: 4 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Spiced Dhal Soup is a flavorful and comforting dish that is perfect for a chilly day. This soup is packed with protein and fiber from the lentils, making it a nutritious and satisfying meal. The combination of spices adds a delicious depth of flavor that will warm you from the inside out.

History

Dhal, also spelled as dal or daal, is a staple dish in Indian cuisine. It is a type of lentil soup that is commonly eaten with rice or bread. The use of spices like fenugreek seeds, mustard seeds, and curry powder in dhal soup is a traditional Indian cooking technique that enhances the flavor of the lentils.

Ingredients

water
200 g / 7 oz dry lentils
0.5 tsp fenugreek seeds
0.5 tsp mustard seeds
1.1 liter / 40 fl oz strong vegetable stock
2 tbsp vegetable oil
4 garlic cloves, chopped
1 large onion, chopped
0.5 tsp crushed dried chiles
2 carrots, chopped
2 sticks of celery, chopped
1 tsp salt
0.5 tsp ground turmeric
0.5 tsp curry powder
1 tbsp soy sauce

How to prepare

Place the lentils, fenugreek seeds, and mustard seeds in a large saucepan. Cover with 5 cm / 2 inches of water and let them soak for about 1 hour until softened.
Drain and rinse the lentils well with fresh cold water.
Return the lentil mixture to the rinsed-out saucepan. Add the stock and bring it to a boil, stirring. Then, reduce the heat, partially cover, and simmer for about 30 minutes or until the lentils are soft.
Meanwhile, heat the oil in a frying pan. Add the garlic and onions, and cook over medium-high heat, stirring, for about 5 minutes until lightly browned.
Add the onion mixture, crushed chile, carrots, and celery to the lentils. Mix well and continue to cook for a further 15 minutes or until the carrots are tender.
Allow the soup to cool a little, then transfer it to a food processor and process until pureed. You may need to do this in batches.
Return the pureed soup to the saucepan. Add the salt, turmeric, curry powder, and soy sauce. Mix well and simmer for 5 minutes.
Serve hot.

Variations

Add diced tomatoes or spinach for extra flavor and nutrition.
Use coconut milk instead of vegetable stock for a creamy texture.
Garnish with chopped cilantro or a squeeze of lemon juice before serving.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Soaking the lentils before cooking helps to soften them and reduce the cooking time.

- Pureeing the soup in a food processor creates a smooth and creamy texture.

- Adjust the amount of spices according to your taste preferences.

- Serve the soup with a dollop of yogurt or a sprinkle of fresh herbs for added flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Spiced Dhal Soup with a side of naan bread or steamed rice for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Simmering the lentils in vegetable stock helps to infuse the soup with flavor.

- Pureeing the soup creates a smooth and creamy texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use red lentils or split peas instead of brown lentils.

- Substitute garam masala for curry powder for a different flavor profile.

Make Ahead Tips

The soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the soup with a drizzle of coconut milk, a sprinkle of chopped cilantro, or a dollop of yogurt for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Serve the Spiced Dhal Soup with a side of cucumber raita or a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a saucepan over low heat until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Calories: 250 per serving

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates: 35g per serving

Fats

Total Fat: 5g per serving

Proteins

Protein: 12g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

This soup is a good source of iron, folate, and vitamin C.

Alergens

This recipe is vegan and gluten-free.

Summary

Spiced Dhal Soup is a nutritious and flavorful dish that is high in protein and fiber. It is a great option for a healthy and satisfying meal.

Summary

Spiced Dhal Soup is a delicious and nutritious dish that is perfect for a cozy night in. Packed with protein and fiber, this soup is sure to satisfy your hunger and warm your soul. Enjoy the rich flavors of Indian spices in every spoonful of this comforting dish.

How did I get this recipe?

The moment I found this recipe is one that will always be special to me. It was a hot summer day, and I had just finished a long day of shopping at the local market. As I was walking home, I passed by a small food stall where a kind elderly woman was serving up bowls of steaming hot spiced dhal soup. The aroma wafted through the air, drawing me in like a moth to a flame.

I couldn't resist the temptation and decided to try a bowl for myself. As I took my first spoonful, I was instantly transported back to my childhood, to the days when my own grandmother used to make this comforting dish for me. The flavors were rich and complex, a perfect balance of warm spices and creamy lentils.

I knew then and there that I had to learn how to make this soup for myself. I approached the woman and asked her for the recipe, but she just smiled and shook her head, saying it was a family secret that had been passed down for generations. Disappointed but undeterred, I decided to try and recreate the recipe on my own.

I went home and spent hours experimenting in the kitchen, adding a pinch of this and a dash of that until I finally achieved the perfect balance of flavors. I shared the soup with my family, and they all agreed that it tasted just like the one from the market stall.

Over the years, I've continued to perfect the recipe, adding my own twists and variations to make it truly my own. I've shared it with friends and neighbors, passing on the tradition of this comforting dish to the next generation.

Every time I make a pot of spiced dhal soup, I'm reminded of that hot summer day and the kind woman who unknowingly inspired me to create something truly special. The flavors of cumin, turmeric, and coriander mingle together in perfect harmony, creating a dish that warms the soul and comforts the heart.

As I sit down to enjoy a bowl of this soup, I can't help but feel grateful for the journey that led me to this recipe. It's a reminder of the power of food to connect us to our past, to our loved ones, and to the world around us. And for that, I am truly thankful.