White Gazpacho

White Gazpacho Recipe - Authentic Egyptian Cuisine

Region / culture: Egypt | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 0 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

White Gazpacho is a refreshing and creamy cold soup that originates from Spain. Unlike traditional tomato-based gazpacho, this version is made with cucumbers, sour cream, yogurt, and green peppers, giving it a unique and delicious flavor.

History

White Gazpacho, also known as Ajo Blanco, has its roots in Andalusia, Spain. It is believed to have originated during the Moorish rule in Spain, where almonds and garlic were commonly used in dishes. Over time, the recipe evolved to include ingredients like cucumbers and sour cream, creating a creamy and flavorful soup that is perfect for hot summer days.

Ingredients

2 cucumbers, peeled and diced
1 clove of garlic
1 green pepper, diced
750 ml (1.25 pt) of chicken stock
425 ml (15 fl oz) of thick sour cream
225 ml (8 fl oz) of natural yogurt
3 tbsp of white wine vinegar
2 tsp of salt
pepper to taste

How to prepare

Place the cucumbers, garlic, and green pepper in a food processor or blender with a small amount of the chicken stock. Blend until smooth, then add the remaining stock.
Put the sour cream and yogurt into a bowl and stir in a small amount of the pureed mixture to thin it out.
Stir in the remaining mixture, and add the vinegar, salt, and pepper. Chill.
Serve garnished with parsley and accompanied by bowls of diced cucumber, green pepper, and flaked almonds.

Variations

Add fresh herbs, such as mint or basil, for a different flavor profile.
Substitute Greek yogurt for the sour cream for a tangier taste.
Add a splash of olive oil for extra richness and flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to peel the cucumbers before blending them to ensure a smooth and creamy texture.

- Adjust the amount of garlic and vinegar to suit your taste preferences.

- For a thicker soup, add more sour cream and yogurt. For a lighter consistency, add more chicken stock.

- Garnish the soup with fresh herbs, such as parsley or dill, for added flavor and visual appeal.

Serving Suggestions

White Gazpacho can be served as a starter or light meal on its own, or paired with a salad or crusty bread for a more substantial meal.

Cooking Techniques

Use a food processor or blender to puree the ingredients for a smooth and creamy texture.

- Chill the soup in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving to enhance the flavors.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use Greek yogurt instead of regular yogurt for a thicker consistency.

- Substitute almonds with pine nuts or walnuts for a different nutty flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

White Gazpacho can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Stir well before serving and adjust the seasoning if necessary.

Presentation Ideas

Serve White Gazpacho in chilled bowls or glasses, garnished with a drizzle of olive oil, fresh herbs, and a sprinkle of chopped almonds.

Pairing Recommendations

White Gazpacho pairs well with grilled shrimp, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad. It also goes well with a glass of chilled white wine or sparkling water.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover White Gazpacho in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Stir well before serving and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Do not freeze as the texture may change.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of White Gazpacho contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of White Gazpacho contains approximately 12 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of White Gazpacho contains approximately 18 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of White Gazpacho contains approximately 6 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

White Gazpacho is a good source of vitamin C, vitamin K, and potassium.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (sour cream and yogurt) and nuts (almonds), which may be allergens for some individuals.

Summary

White Gazpacho is a creamy and flavorful soup that is relatively low in carbohydrates and high in healthy fats. It is a good source of vitamins and minerals, making it a nutritious and delicious option for a light meal or appetizer.

Summary

White Gazpacho is a delicious and refreshing cold soup that is perfect for summer. With its creamy texture and flavorful ingredients, it is sure to be a hit at your next gathering. Enjoy this unique twist on a classic Spanish dish!

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was captivated by its simplicity. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting a dear friend in Spain. She invited me over for lunch, and as I walked into her kitchen, I was greeted by the most amazing aroma. My friend smiled and said, "I hope you enjoy white gazpacho - it's a family recipe."

I watched intently as she effortlessly combined cucumbers, grapes, almonds, garlic, and yogurt in a blender. The ingredients were all so fresh and vibrant, and I couldn't wait to taste the final result. My friend poured the gazpacho into bowls and served it with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of fresh herbs. With the first spoonful, I knew I had to learn how to make this dish.

As my friend and I enjoyed our lunch, she told me the story of how her grandmother had passed down the recipe to her. She explained that white gazpacho originated in the Andalusian region of Spain and was traditionally made with stale bread, almonds, garlic, and vinegar. Over the years, the recipe had evolved to include yogurt and fresh fruits, giving it a lighter and more refreshing taste.

I was fascinated by the history behind this dish and the way it had been adapted over generations. I asked my friend if she would teach me how to make it, and she happily agreed. We spent the rest of the afternoon in her kitchen, chopping and blending the ingredients together. As we worked, my friend shared tips and tricks she had learned from her grandmother, such as using the best quality olive oil and adjusting the amount of garlic to suit your taste.

After a few hours of cooking and chatting, we sat down to enjoy our homemade white gazpacho. The flavors were incredible - fresh, tangy, and slightly sweet. I savored each spoonful, feeling grateful for the opportunity to learn a new recipe from a dear friend.

When I returned home, I couldn't wait to share my newfound recipe with my family. I gathered all the ingredients - cucumbers, grapes, almonds, garlic, yogurt, olive oil, and herbs - and set to work in my own kitchen. As I chopped and blended, I thought about my friend in Spain and the special bond we had formed over a simple bowl of gazpacho.

When I served the white gazpacho to my family, they were amazed by the unique flavors and textures. They asked where I had learned to make such a delicious dish, and I proudly told them about my friend in Spain and the tradition of passing down recipes through generations.

Since that day, white gazpacho has become a staple in my family's kitchen. I make it often during the hot summer months, when the ingredients are at their peak freshness. Each time I prepare the dish, I think of my friend and the special memories we shared in her kitchen.

I am grateful for the opportunity to learn new recipes and techniques from friends and loved ones. Cooking has always been a way for me to connect with others and share in the joy of creating something delicious. The recipe for white gazpacho holds a special place in my heart, reminding me of the beauty of simple, fresh ingredients and the power of tradition.

As I continue to cook and explore new recipes, I carry with me the lessons I learned from my friend in Spain. I strive to create dishes that are not only delicious but also meaningful, connecting me to the past and to the people I love. White gazpacho will always hold a special place in my kitchen, a reminder of the friendships and memories that have enriched my life.