Classic Roasted Tomato Shorba
Tomato soup is a monsoon staple, but roasting the tomatoes first elevates it to another level. This simple trick deepens the flavour, bringing out a natural sweetness that perfectly balances the tang. For this shorba, toss halved tomatoes, a few cloves
of garlic, and some onion in a bit of oil and roast until they are soft and slightly caramelised. Once done, blend them into a smooth puree. Heat a little ghee or butter in a pan, add a pinch of cumin seeds, and once they splutter, pour in your roasted tomato puree. Season with a touch of turmeric, black pepper, and salt. Let it simmer for a few minutes to allow the flavours to meld. The result is a soup rich in Vitamin C and antioxidants, making it a delicious way to support your immune system.
Immunity-Boosting Carrot and Ginger Soup
When you feel a sniffle coming on, this is the soup to turn to. The powerful combination of carrot and ginger is not just delicious but also incredibly beneficial. Ginger is renowned for its anti-inflammatory properties, while carrots are packed with Vitamin A, a key nutrient for a healthy immune system. To make it, simply sauté chopped onions, grated ginger, and chopped carrots in a pot for a few minutes. Pour in enough vegetable stock or water to cover the vegetables, bring to a boil, and then simmer until the carrots are tender. Use an immersion blender to create a smooth, vibrant orange soup. For a touch of richness, you can add a swirl of coconut milk at the end. It’s a simple, warming soup that feels both nourishing and indulgent.
Hearty Mixed Lentil and Vegetable Soup
For those days when you need something more substantial, a mixed lentil and vegetable soup is a complete meal in a bowl. It's packed with protein from the lentils and fibre from the vegetables, ensuring it will keep you full and satisfied. You can use a mix of dals like masoor (red lentil) and moong (mung bean), which cook quickly. Start by pressure cooking the soaked lentils with turmeric and salt. In a separate pan, sauté a mix of your favourite seasonal vegetables like carrots, beans, and peas with onions, garlic, and ginger. Add the cooked dal to the vegetables, along with some water or vegetable broth to reach your desired consistency. Let it simmer and finish with a squeeze of lemon and fresh coriander. It's a versatile recipe that you can easily adapt based on what's in your pantry.
Quick Spinach and Garlic Soup
When you're short on time but still want something healthy, this spinach and garlic soup is the answer. It comes together in minutes and is loaded with nutrients. Garlic is a well-known immunity booster, while spinach provides a healthy dose of iron. To prepare, heat a little oil or butter in a pan and sauté a generous amount of chopped garlic until it's fragrant. Add a big handful of roughly chopped spinach and cook until it wilts. Pour in some vegetable broth, season with salt and pepper, and let it simmer for just five minutes. You can choose to blend it for a creamy texture or leave it as is for a clearer soup. A final squeeze of lemon juice brightens up the flavours, making it a refreshing and restorative meal.
