Cold Buttermilk Soup: An Elegant South African Delight
Description:
Originating from a classic Time-Life African cookbook, this Cold Buttermilk Soup is a sophisticated and refreshing starter for dinner that transforms into a delightful breakfast the next morning. With its smooth, tangy flavor and a touch of spice, it’s perfect for those who enjoy a taste of South African cuisine.
Ingredients:
- 5 seedless raisins
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 3 lemons, rind only
- 2 teaspoons nutmeg
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 1/2 cups buttermilk
Instructions:
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Prepare the Bread Crumbs:
- Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C). Spread slices of bread evenly on a baking sheet and toast them in the oven for 30-40 minutes. Remember to turn the bread once or twice to ensure an even crispness. The bread should be golden brown and completely dried out. Remove from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack.
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Soak the Raisins:
- While the bread is toasting, place the seedless raisins in a cup of boiling water. Allow them to soak for about 5 minutes, which will plump them up and make them more flavorful. Once soaked, drain the raisins on a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
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Process the Bread:
- Once the toasted bread has cooled completely, break it into smaller pieces and place them in a blender or food processor. Grind the bread until it turns into fine crumbs. For a smoother texture, sift the crumbs through a fine sieve into a deep mixing bowl, ensuring any larger bits are discarded.
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Combine Ingredients:
- Into the bowl with the bread crumbs, add the sugar, lemon rind, nutmeg, and cinnamon. Mix these ingredients thoroughly to ensure the flavors are well combined.
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Incorporate the Buttermilk:
- Gradually add the buttermilk to the dry mixture, stirring constantly to achieve a smooth, creamy consistency. Pour the buttermilk in a fine stream to prevent lumps from forming and to ensure an even blend.
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Chill the Soup:
- Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Cover the bowl and refrigerate the soup for at least 30 minutes. This will allow the flavors to meld together and enhance the overall taste.
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Serve:
- Before serving, stir the soup well to recombine any settled ingredients. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish each serving with a sprinkle of nutmeg and cinnamon.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 228
- Fat Content: 3.2g
- Saturated Fat Content: 1.6g
- Cholesterol Content: 9.8mg
- Sodium Content: 437.7mg
- Carbohydrate Content: 40.7g
- Fiber Content: 2.4g
- Sugar Content: 25.5g
- Protein Content: 10.8g
Recipe Yield:
- Serves 6
This Cold Buttermilk Soup not only makes a beautiful start to any meal but is also a unique and healthful option that you can enjoy throughout the day. Its tangy buttermilk base combined with the aromatic spices creates a memorable taste experience. Whether served chilled as an appetizer or enjoyed as a refreshing breakfast, this dish is sure to impress. Enjoy every spoonful of this sophisticated South African delight! 🥄✨