Cumin Spiced Potato and Leek Soup
A delightful embrace of comfort and warmth, this Cumin Spiced Potato and Leek Soup is a perfect addition to your culinary repertoire, embodying the essence of continental cuisine while maintaining a wholesome vegetarian profile. The infusion of cumin and red chili flakes provides a gentle warmth that dances on the palate, making this soup an exquisite side dish or a light meal on its own.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Potatoes (Aloo) | 4 cups, roughly chopped |
| Leeks | 2 cups, sliced and chopped |
| Onions | 2, roughly chopped |
| Vegetable stock | 3 cups |
| Water | As required |
| Cumin seeds (Jeera) | 1 teaspoon |
| Red chili flakes | ½ teaspoon |
| Extra virgin olive oil | For cooking |
| Salt | As per taste |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutritional Component | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | Approximately 220 |
| Protein | 3g |
| Carbohydrates | 35g |
| Dietary Fiber | 5g |
| Sugars | 2g |
| Fat | 8g |
| Sodium | Varies (dependent on stock) |
Preparation Details
| Item | Time (minutes) |
|---|---|
| Preparation Time | 10 |
| Cooking Time | 60 |
| Total Time | 70 |
| Servings | 4 |
Instructions
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Preparation of Ingredients: Begin your culinary journey by thoroughly washing all the vegetables designated for this soup. This step is crucial in ensuring that your dish maintains its vibrant flavor and wholesome appeal. After washing, take care to remove the green ends and the roots of the leeks, which can sometimes lend a bitter taste if included.
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Chopping the Vegetables: Slice the leeks and then roughly chop them to break them into smaller, manageable pieces. Next, peel the potatoes and cut them into approximately ½-inch chunks. Finally, finely chop the onions and set them aside to infuse their sweetness into the soup.
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Sautéing the Aromatics: In a medium-sized soup pot, drizzle in some extra virgin olive oil and heat it over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the chopped leeks and finely chopped onions. Sauté these aromatic vegetables until they become tender and translucent, filling your kitchen with their delightful fragrance.
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Cooking the Potatoes: After the leeks and onions have softened, introduce the chopped potatoes into the pot. Cover the pot and allow them to cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and to ensure even cooking.
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Simmering the Soup: Once the potatoes have softened, pour in 3 cups of vegetable stock along with enough water to reach your desired soup consistency, typically around 3 cups. Season with salt to taste, and then let the mixture come to a gentle simmer. Cook for approximately 30 minutes, or until the potatoes are completely tender and the soup emits an inviting aroma.
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Blending the Soup: Using an immersion blender, or in batches with a regular blender, blend the soup until it achieves a creamy, uniform texture. Take your time to ensure every ingredient is well combined, resulting in a velvety mouthfeel.
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Preparing the Cumin Spice Tadka: For the finishing touch, take a small pan and add 1 teaspoon of olive oil. Heat the oil gently, then add the red chili flakes and cumin seeds. Allow the spices to sizzle for about 10-15 seconds, just enough to awaken their flavors without burning them.
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Serving: Pour the blended Potato and Leek Soup into serving bowls, and drizzle the fragrant cumin spice tadka over the top. This aromatic infusion elevates the soup, adding an extra layer of flavor that is sure to impress.
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Accompaniments: For a complete meal experience, serve the Cumin Spiced Potato and Leek Soup alongside slices of cheese garlic bread and a delightful Spaghetti Pomodoro (Pasta in Tomato Basil Sauce). This combination will not only satisfy your taste buds but also provide a balanced and enjoyable dining experience.
Indulging in a bowl of Cumin Spiced Potato and Leek Soup is not merely a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors, a comforting embrace, and an opportunity to gather around the table with loved ones. So, let the warmth of this soup fill your kitchen and your hearts, creating memories that linger long after the last spoonful. Enjoy!
