Welcome to Love With Recipes! 🥰 Today, we’re bringing you an exquisite and aromatic dish that’s perfect for those who adore the rich, diverse flavors of Indian cuisine but also crave the simplicity and convenience of a crock pot meal. This Indian Vegetable Soup is not only incredibly delicious but also vegan-friendly, making it an ideal choice for those who are looking to embrace a plant-based diet without compromising on taste. Let’s dive into this wonderful recipe that promises to fill your kitchen with the enchanting aroma of Indian spices!
Indian Vegetable Soup (Crock Pot) 🥘
Description
This delightful soup hails from the renowned Better Homes & Gardens “Crockery Cooking” collection. It’s a vibrant medley of vegetables and spices, slowly simmered to perfection in a crock pot. Whether you’re an experienced cook or a beginner, this recipe is easy to follow and yields a heartwarming, flavorful soup that’s sure to become a family favorite. Perfect for a cozy weekend meal, this dish is both nourishing and satisfying. 🌟
Ingredients
- 1 large eggplant, peeled and diced into bite-sized pieces
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes, with juices
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, finely grated
- 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
- 1 1/2 teaspoons ground coriander
- 1 1/2 teaspoons curry powder
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup vegetable broth
- 4 cups chicken broth (for a fully vegan version, substitute with vegetable broth)
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro stems, finely chopped (for garnish)
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 188.3 kcal |
| Fat | 1.6 g |
| Saturated Fat | 0.2 g |
| Cholesterol | 0 mg |
| Sodium | 367.8 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 39 g |
| Fiber | 9 g |
| Sugars | 5.5 g |
| Protein | 6.8 g |
Preparation Time
| Activity | Duration |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 20 minutes |
| Cook Time | 10 hours |
| Total Time | 10 hours 20 minutes |
Instructions
-
Preparation:
- Begin by preparing all your ingredients. Peel and dice the eggplant into bite-sized pieces. Open the can of diced tomatoes and drain and rinse the chickpeas. Finely grate the fresh ginger and finely chop the cilantro stems for later use.
-
Layer the Ingredients:
- In your crock pot, combine the diced eggplant, canned tomatoes (with their juices), and drained chickpeas. Ensure that these are evenly distributed at the bottom of the crock pot.
-
Add the Spices:
- Sprinkle the grated ginger over the vegetables. Then, evenly distribute the mustard seeds, ground coriander, curry powder, and black pepper. These spices will infuse the vegetables with their rich, aromatic flavors as they cook.
-
Pour the Broth:
- Pour the vegetable broth and chicken broth over the vegetable and spice mixture. If you’re keeping this dish vegan, substitute the chicken broth with an additional 4 cups of vegetable broth. Stir gently to ensure all ingredients are well combined.
-
Cook:
- Cover the crock pot and set it to cook on low for 8 to 10 hours. If you’re in a bit of a hurry, you can set it on high and cook for 4 to 5 hours instead. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, creating a rich and hearty soup.
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Garnish and Serve:
- Once the cooking time is up, give the soup a good stir. Ladle it into bowls and garnish with the finely chopped cilantro stems. This adds a fresh, vibrant touch that complements the soup’s warm, spicy undertones.
Tips for a Perfect Soup
- Choosing Your Eggplant: For the best results, choose a firm, glossy eggplant with a uniform color. Avoid those with soft spots or blemishes.
- Spice Levels: Adjust the amount of curry powder and black pepper according to your heat preference. If you like your soup spicier, you can add a bit more curry powder or even a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Fresh Cilantro: Using fresh cilantro stems for garnish not only adds a burst of color but also a refreshing flavor that balances the richness of the soup. If you’re a cilantro fan, feel free to add a few leaves as well.
Serving Suggestions
This Indian Vegetable Soup pairs wonderfully with a side of warm, crusty bread or a bowl of steamed basmati rice. For an extra touch, you might also serve it with a dollop of plain yogurt or a squeeze of fresh lime juice to add a tangy contrast to the savory, spiced broth.
Enjoy this hearty, aromatic Indian Vegetable Soup with your loved ones. It’s a perfect dish to warm you up on a cool day or to bring a bit of exotic flair to your dinner table. Happy cooking! 🌶️🥥🍲
