If you’re in the mood for a comforting and flavorful dish, this Pakistani spiced bean soup is an excellent choice. It combines a variety of beans with aromatic spices, creating a rich and satisfying meal that is both nutritious and delicious. Perfect for chilly evenings or whenever you crave something hearty, this soup is easy to prepare and can be enjoyed with naan or rice.
Ingredients
To make this delightful soup, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) mixed beans (such as kidney beans, black beans, and pinto beans), soaked overnight and drained
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to your spice preference)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 4 cups (1 liter) vegetable or chicken broth
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (for garnish)
- Lime wedges (for serving)
Instructions
- Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot, heat a splash of oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until it becomes translucent. Next, add the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Add the Spices: Stir in the ground cumin, ground coriander, garam masala, red chili powder, and salt. Cook the mixture for about a minute to allow the spices to toast and release their flavors.
- Incorporate the Beans and Tomatoes: Add the soaked beans, the can of diced tomatoes (including their juice), and the broth to the pot. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 45 to 60 minutes, or until the beans are tender and fully cooked.
- Blend for Creaminess: Once the beans are soft, carefully remove about 2 cups of the soup and blend it until smooth. You can use an immersion blender directly in the pot or transfer it to a regular blender. Return the blended mixture to the pot and stir well to create a creamy texture.
- Final Touches: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if needed. Stir in the chopped cilantro for a fresh burst of flavor.
- Serve: Ladle the hot soup into bowls and serve with lime wedges on the side. Squeezing some lime juice over the soup adds a delightful tanginess that complements the spices beautifully. Enjoy it with naan bread or over a bed of rice for a complete meal.
Conclusion
This Pakistani spiced bean soup is not just a meal; it’s a warm hug in a bowl. With its rich flavors and comforting texture, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Plus, it’s a great way to incorporate more plant-based proteins into your diet. Feel free to customize the spices and beans according to your taste preferences. Enjoy your cooking!
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