Watercress and Lime Soup

Watercress and Lime Soup Recipe from Egypt - Delicious Soup with Butter, Potato, Leek, Chicken Stock, and Cream

Region / culture: Egypt | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Watercress and Lime Soup is a refreshing and flavorful dish that is perfect for a light lunch or dinner. The combination of the peppery watercress and zesty lime creates a unique and delicious flavor profile that is sure to impress your taste buds.

History

Watercress has been used in cooking for centuries, with its origins dating back to ancient Greece and Rome. It was often used in soups and salads for its distinct flavor and nutritional benefits. The addition of lime to this classic soup recipe adds a modern twist and enhances the overall taste.

Ingredients

50 g (2 oz) of butter
250 g (8 oz) of diced potato
250 g (8 oz) of chopped leek
3 bunches of watercress, with stalks removed
1 liter (1.75 pt) of chicken stock
salt and pepper to taste
Grated rind and juice of 1 lime
4 tbsp of cream
watercress sprigs for garnish

How to prepare

Melt the butter in a large pan. Add the potato and leek, and cook gently for about 10 minutes until soft.
Meanwhile, finely chop the watercress. Add the chicken stock to the pan, bring to a boil, and add a pinch of salt. Simmer for 8 minutes, then add the watercress.
Transfer the mixture to a food processor or blender and puree until smooth.
Return the soup to the pan. Add the lime rind and juice, check the seasoning, and heat through.
Transfer the soup to individual soup plates, swirl in the cream, and serve garnished with watercress.

Variations

For a vegan version, you can substitute the butter and cream with olive oil and coconut cream.
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
Garnish with toasted pine nuts or croutons for added texture.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to remove the stalks from the watercress before chopping to ensure a smooth and creamy texture in the soup.

- Adjust the amount of lime juice to suit your personal taste preferences. You can always add more or less depending on how tangy you like your soup.

- For a creamier consistency, you can add more cream or even a dollop of sour cream before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Watercress and Lime Soup with a side of crusty bread or a simple green salad for a complete and satisfying meal.

Cooking Techniques

Pureeing the soup in a blender or food processor will give it a smooth and creamy consistency.

Ingredient Substitutions

If watercress is not available, you can use spinach or arugula 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 3 days. Simply reheat before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish each bowl of soup with a drizzle of cream and a sprig of fresh watercress for an elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair this soup with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, for a perfect match of flavors.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

- 220 calories per serving

Carbohydrates

- Total Carbohydrates: 18g

- Dietary Fiber: 3g

- Sugars: 4g

Fats

- Total Fat: 12g

- Saturated Fat: 7g

- Trans Fat: 0g

Proteins

- Protein: 4g

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin A: 45% DV

- Vitamin C: 30% DV

- Calcium: 8% DV

- Iron: 10% DV

Alergens

Contains dairy (butter and cream)

Summary

This soup is a good source of vitamin A and C, as well as fiber. It is relatively low in calories and carbohydrates, making it a healthy option for a light meal.

Summary

Watercress and Lime Soup is a light and flavorful dish that is perfect for any occasion. With its unique combination of ingredients and refreshing taste, this soup is sure to become a new favorite in your recipe collection. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

I can still remember the exact moment I discovered this recipe for Watercress and Lime Soup. It was a warm summer day, just like any other, and I was visiting my dear friend Margaret for our weekly catch-up. Margaret was known for her exquisite taste in food and her ability to whip up the most delicious dishes with ease.

As soon as I walked into her kitchen, I was greeted by the most tantalizing aroma. Margaret was standing over a bubbling pot on the stove, stirring in a handful of fresh watercress and squeezing in the juice of a ripe lime. The vibrant green color of the soup was mesmerizing, and I couldn't wait to taste it.

"Margaret, what is that delightful smell?" I asked, unable to contain my curiosity.

"Oh, this is my new creation - Watercress and Lime Soup," Margaret replied with a twinkle in her eye. "I came across this recipe in an old cookbook I found at a flea market, and I just had to try it. It's surprisingly refreshing and perfect for a hot summer day."

I watched as Margaret added a few more ingredients to the pot, including some vegetable broth and a touch of cream. The soup simmered on the stove, filling the kitchen with its irresistible aroma. I couldn't wait to taste it, and Margaret must have sensed my eagerness because she soon ladled out a steaming bowl for me to try.

The first spoonful of the soup was a revelation. The peppery bite of the watercress paired perfectly with the tangy citrus flavor of the lime. The creamy texture added a luxurious touch, making it a truly decadent dish. I couldn't believe how such simple ingredients could come together to create something so delicious.

As I savored each spoonful of the soup, I knew that I had to learn how to make it myself. Margaret graciously shared the recipe with me, and I made a mental note to recreate it at home for my family. Little did I know that this recipe would become a staple in my own kitchen for years to come.

Over the years, I've made countless batches of Watercress and Lime Soup, each time tweaking the recipe to suit my own tastes. Sometimes I add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a bit of heat, or a dollop of crème fraîche for extra creaminess. No matter how I choose to customize it, the soup never fails to impress my friends and family.

I've shared the recipe with many people over the years, passing on the knowledge that Margaret so generously shared with me. Each time I make a batch of Watercress and Lime Soup, I think of Margaret and the day I first tasted this delightful dish in her kitchen.

As I sit here now, stirring a pot of the soup on my own stove, I can't help but feel grateful for the friendships I've formed and the memories I've created through cooking. Food has a way of bringing people together, of creating bonds that last a lifetime. And for that, I am truly thankful.

So the next time you find yourself in need of a refreshing and flavorful soup, I encourage you to give this recipe a try. I promise you won't be disappointed. And who knows, maybe one day you'll pass it on to someone else, just as I have done. After all, good food is meant to be shared.