Indian cuisine is renowned for its rich and varied flavors, and soups are no exception.
From spicy and tangy to rich and creamy, Indian soups offer a wide range of tastes that can be enjoyed at any time of the year.
These soups are often packed with nutritious ingredients such as lentils, vegetables, and legumes, making them not only delicious but also hearty and healthy.
Whether you’re looking for a comforting dish on a cold day or something light yet flavorful, Indian soups can satisfy every craving.
In this article, we’ll explore 25+ amazing Indian soup recipes that bring the bold spices and aromatic herbs of Indian cooking into a bowl.
Get ready to embark on a culinary journey through the heart of India with these mouthwatering soups!
25+ Must-Try Indian Soup Recipes for Comfort and Flavor
Indian soups offer a perfect blend of flavor, texture, and nutrition.
Whether you prefer the comforting richness of lentils, the tangy brightness of tomatoes, or the earthy depth of chickpeas, there’s an Indian soup for everyone.
The variety of spices used in these soups—like cumin, coriander, turmeric, and garam masala—ensure that every spoonful is bursting with aromatic goodness.
Whether enjoyed as a starter, a light meal, or a hearty main dish, these soups are perfect for bringing warmth and comfort to your table.
With these 25+ Indian soup recipes, you’ll have an extensive collection to choose from whenever you’re in the mood for something deliciously different and satisfying.
Tomato Rasam Soup
Tomato Rasam is a quintessential South Indian soup known for its tangy, spicy flavor and its ability to soothe the senses. It’s made with fresh tomatoes, tamarind, and a variety of spices, making it a perfect comfort food during the colder months. Often served with rice, it also works wonderfully as a standalone soup when you’re craving something light yet flavorful. The balance of sourness from tamarind and the heat from black pepper and cumin gives it a unique taste that has become beloved in Indian households.
Ingredients:
- 4 medium-sized tomatoes, chopped
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 1 tsp tamarind paste
- 1 tsp black mustard seeds
- 1 tsp cumin seeds
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
- 1/2 tsp red chili powder
- 1/4 tsp asafetida (hing)
- 1 tbsp ghee or oil
- Salt to taste
- Fresh coriander leaves, chopped (for garnish)
- 4 cups water
- 1 tbsp jaggery (optional)
Instructions:
- Heat ghee or oil in a pan and add the mustard seeds, cumin seeds, and asafetida. Let them splutter.
- Add chopped onions and sauté until soft. Then add the chopped tomatoes and cook for about 5-7 minutes until they soften.
- Add turmeric, red chili powder, and black pepper. Stir and cook for another 2 minutes.
- Dissolve tamarind paste in a small amount of water and add it to the pan, followed by jaggery (if using). Add the remaining water and bring the mixture to a boil.
- Reduce the heat and let it simmer for 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Season with salt, garnish with chopped coriander leaves, and serve hot.
Tomato Rasam Soup is a flavorful, tangy, and satisfying dish that is incredibly easy to make. This soup is great for digestion and packed with antioxidants from tomatoes and spices. Its light yet aromatic profile makes it an excellent choice for a quick meal or appetizer. Whether you’re battling a cold or just want a warm, comforting bowl of soup, Rasam never disappoints.
Mulligatawny Soup
Mulligatawny Soup is a delicious fusion dish that originated in South India but gained popularity during British colonial times. The name translates to “pepper water,” referring to the original spice blend that gave the soup its kick. Today’s version includes lentils, vegetables, and sometimes even chicken, making it a hearty, nutritious meal. With its rich flavor profile, it’s perfect for warming you up on a chilly day, and its subtle spiciness makes it a crowd-pleaser at any gathering.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup yellow lentils (toor dal)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 carrots, peeled and diced
- 1 potato, peeled and diced
- 1 tomato, chopped
- 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
- 1 tsp cumin seeds
- 1 tsp coriander powder
- 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
- 1 tsp garam masala
- 1/4 tsp ground black pepper
- 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 tbsp coconut milk (optional)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
- Salt to taste
Instructions:
- Rinse the lentils thoroughly and cook them in a pressure cooker or large pot until soft (about 15-20 minutes).
- In a separate pan, heat oil and add cumin seeds. Once they splutter, add chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.
- Add the ginger-garlic paste and cook for a minute before adding the diced carrots, potatoes, and tomatoes. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add the cooked lentils along with vegetable broth, coriander powder, turmeric, garam masala, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Reduce heat and let the soup simmer for 15-20 minutes, until the vegetables are tender and the soup has thickened.
- Stir in coconut milk (if using) and lemon juice for a creamy, tangy finish. Season with salt to taste.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve hot.
Mulligatawny Soup offers a perfect balance of flavors with the earthy lentils, hearty vegetables, and aromatic spices. It’s versatile and can be customized with chicken or even made vegan. The creamy texture, along with the hint of lemon juice, gives it an irresistible taste that is both satisfying and refreshing. Perfect for cold weather, this soup can also be enjoyed with rice or bread for a complete meal.
Palak Soup (Spinach Soup)
Palak Soup is a nutritious and flavorful soup made from fresh spinach leaves, seasoned with spices, and enriched with a variety of ingredients like garlic, onions, and ginger. This vibrant green soup is not only packed with vitamins and minerals but is also light and refreshing. Ideal for detoxing, Palak Soup is great for anyone looking to increase their vegetable intake while enjoying a hearty yet low-calorie meal.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups fresh spinach leaves, washed and chopped
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-inch piece of ginger, minced
- 1 potato, peeled and diced (for a creamy texture)
- 1 tsp cumin seeds
- 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
- 1 tsp coriander powder
- 1/2 tsp garam masala
- 2 cups water or vegetable broth
- 1 tbsp ghee or oil
- Salt to taste
- Fresh lemon juice (optional)
- Fresh cream or yogurt for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Heat ghee or oil in a large pot and add cumin seeds. Once they splutter, add the chopped onion, garlic, and ginger. Sauté until the onions are soft and golden.
- Add the chopped potato, turmeric powder, and coriander powder. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add the chopped spinach leaves and cook until they wilt. Pour in water or vegetable broth and bring to a boil.
- Reduce the heat and let the soup simmer for 10-15 minutes, until the potatoes are tender.
- Use an immersion blender or regular blender to puree the soup until smooth. Return the soup to the pot.
- Add garam masala and salt, then simmer for an additional 5 minutes to let the flavors combine.
- Garnish with a drizzle of fresh cream or a dollop of yogurt, and serve hot with a squeeze of lemon juice.
Palak Soup is a wonderfully nutritious and comforting dish, packed with iron, fiber, and vitamins. The addition of potatoes gives it a creamy texture, while the spices add warmth and depth of flavor. This soup is perfect for those looking to incorporate more greens into their diet or simply wanting a light yet fulfilling meal. The vibrant green color and earthy taste make it a great option for any season, whether served on its own or as a side dish with Indian bread.
Kadhi Soup (Indian Yogurt Soup)
Kadhi is a traditional Indian soup made from yogurt and chickpea flour, often flavored with a variety of spices like cumin, coriander, and mustard seeds. This soothing and slightly tangy soup is a staple in many Indian households, offering comfort with its rich, creamy texture. It’s typically served with rice, but it can also stand alone as a refreshing dish. The gentle heat from green chilies and the warmth from ginger make Kadhi Soup a delightful experience for the palate.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup plain yogurt (whisked)
- 1/4 cup chickpea flour (besan)
- 2 cups water
- 1 tbsp ghee or oil
- 1 tsp cumin seeds
- 1 tsp mustard seeds
- 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
- 1/2 tsp red chili powder
- 2-3 green chilies, slit
- 1-inch piece ginger, minced
- 1/4 tsp asafoetida (hing)
- Fresh coriander leaves for garnish
- Salt to taste
Instructions:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the yogurt and chickpea flour. Whisk them together until smooth.
- Add water to the mixture, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Set aside.
- In a pot, heat ghee or oil and add cumin seeds, mustard seeds, and asafoetida. Once they splutter, add the minced ginger and green chilies, sautéing for a minute.
- Add turmeric powder and red chili powder, followed by the yogurt-flour mixture. Stir the mixture constantly to prevent curdling.
- Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes until it thickens slightly.
- Season with salt and garnish with fresh coriander leaves.
- Serve hot with steamed rice or as a standalone soup.
Kadhi Soup offers a tangy and creamy base that is both comforting and flavorful. The yogurt provides a refreshing contrast to the spices, while the chickpea flour adds a smooth, velvety texture. It’s an excellent dish for those looking for something light yet fulfilling. Perfect for a rainy day or a meal to settle your stomach, Kadhi Soup is a versatile, delicious option that’s full of nutrition and flavor.
Gajar Aur Methi Soup (Carrot and Fenugreek Soup)
Gajar Aur Methi Soup is a healthy and flavorful Indian soup made from carrots and fenugreek leaves, which are known for their numerous health benefits. The sweetness of the carrots pairs beautifully with the slight bitterness of the fenugreek, creating a balanced and savory soup. Packed with vitamins and antioxidants, this soup is perfect for detoxing, boosting immunity, and warming up during the colder months. Its mild spice level and light texture make it an ideal comfort food.
Ingredients:
- 2 medium-sized carrots, peeled and chopped
- 1 cup fresh fenugreek leaves (methi), chopped
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 tsp cumin seeds
- 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
- 1/2 tsp ginger powder (or fresh ginger paste)
- 1 green chili, chopped (optional)
- 3 cups vegetable broth or water
- 1 tbsp olive oil or ghee
- Salt to taste
- Fresh coriander leaves for garnish
Instructions:
- Heat oil or ghee in a pot and add cumin seeds. Once they splutter, add chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.
- Add the chopped carrots, turmeric powder, and ginger powder, stirring well. Cook for about 5 minutes.
- Add the chopped fenugreek leaves and cook for another 3-4 minutes, allowing the leaves to wilt.
- Pour in the vegetable broth or water, and bring the soup to a boil. Lower the heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, until the carrots are tender.
- Use an immersion blender or regular blender to puree the soup until smooth.
- Season with salt and garnish with fresh coriander leaves.
- Serve hot as a nutritious starter or main dish.
Gajar Aur Methi Soup is a unique and healthy combination of sweet carrots and slightly bitter fenugreek, making it both nutritious and delicious. Fenugreek leaves add a distinct, earthy flavor that pairs wonderfully with the carrots’ sweetness. This soup is rich in vitamins, antioxidants, and fiber, making it a great choice for a light meal or as part of a detoxifying diet. With its aromatic blend of spices, it offers a comforting and nourishing experience, perfect for any season.
Sweet Corn Soup
Sweet Corn Soup is a popular Indo-Chinese dish that combines the sweetness of corn with the umami of soy sauce and the mild heat of ginger. This soup is thickened with cornflour, giving it a smooth texture that’s perfect for sipping on cold evenings. It’s a popular starter in many Indian Chinese restaurants, often served with a side of crispy noodles or bread. Whether you’re looking for a light meal or a comforting appetizer, Sweet Corn Soup is the perfect choice for any occasion.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup sweet corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1-inch piece of ginger, minced
- 1 small carrot, finely chopped
- 3 cups vegetable broth or water
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp vinegar
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp cornflour (cornstarch) mixed with 2 tbsp water
- Salt to taste
- Fresh coriander leaves for garnish
Instructions:
- In a blender or food processor, blend half of the sweet corn kernels with a little water to make a smooth puree.
- In a pot, heat some oil and sauté the chopped onions and ginger until fragrant.
- Add the chopped carrot and the remaining sweet corn kernels, and cook for a few minutes.
- Pour in the vegetable broth or water, and bring the mixture to a boil.
- Add the corn puree, soy sauce, vinegar, black pepper, and salt. Stir well and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes.
- Add the cornflour slurry to thicken the soup. Continue stirring until the soup reaches a smooth, slightly thick consistency.
- Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and serve hot.
Sweet Corn Soup is a versatile, crowd-pleasing dish that brings together the sweetness of corn with savory spices and a touch of tang from vinegar and soy sauce. It’s a light yet filling option that’s perfect for any season, and its smooth texture makes it easy to enjoy. This soup is especially great for kids, as its mild flavors and natural sweetness are sure to be a hit. Whether served as a starter or a light meal, Sweet Corn Soup is comforting, satisfying, and packed with flavor.
Mulligatawny Soup (Spiced Lentil Soup)
Mulligatawny Soup is a classic Anglo-Indian soup that brings together the earthy flavors of lentils, vegetables, and an aromatic blend of spices. Originating in South India, this soup combines lentils, vegetables like carrots and potatoes, and is flavored with curry leaves, ginger, garlic, and garam masala. A touch of coconut milk or cream adds richness to the dish, while the spices offer a warm, hearty experience. It’s perfect for a light yet filling meal, and can easily be customized to suit your spice preferences.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup yellow split lentils (moong dal)
- 1 carrot, chopped
- 1 potato, chopped
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 tomato, chopped
- 1 tsp ginger paste
- 1 tsp garlic paste
- 1 tsp cumin seeds
- 1 tsp coriander powder
- 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
- 1 tsp garam masala
- 1/2 tsp red chili powder
- 1 tbsp oil or ghee
- 1 bay leaf
- 4-5 curry leaves
- 1/2 cup coconut milk (optional)
- 4 cups water or vegetable broth
- Salt to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
- Wash the lentils thoroughly. In a pot, add the lentils, chopped carrots, potatoes, onions, and tomatoes. Pour in the water or vegetable broth and bring it to a boil.
- Reduce the heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes until the lentils and vegetables are soft.
- In a separate pan, heat oil or ghee. Add cumin seeds, curry leaves, and bay leaf. Once the cumin seeds splutter, add the ginger and garlic paste. Sauté for a minute until fragrant.
- Add the coriander powder, turmeric powder, garam masala, and red chili powder. Stir for another minute.
- Add this spice mixture to the cooked lentil and vegetable soup. Stir in the coconut milk for creaminess (optional) and adjust the seasoning with salt.
- Let the soup simmer for 5-10 minutes to blend the flavors.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot with rice or bread.
Mulligatawny Soup is a rich, spiced soup that combines the heartiness of lentils with the warmth of Indian spices. It’s an ideal dish for those looking for something comforting yet light, and the addition of coconut milk creates a silky-smooth texture. Whether you enjoy it with rice or on its own, this soup provides a perfect balance of flavor and nutrition. It’s a great way to introduce yourself to the traditional flavors of India in a delicious, soul-warming soup.
Palak Shorba (Spinach Soup)
Palak Shorba is a vibrant, green soup made from spinach, an ingredient packed with nutrients. The earthy flavor of spinach is enhanced with Indian spices like cumin, garam masala, and a dash of lemon juice, making it both refreshing and filling. This simple and healthy soup is perfect for anyone looking to add more greens to their diet, and it’s an excellent source of iron and vitamins. Whether enjoyed on its own or served as a side dish, Palak Shorba is a wholesome addition to any meal.
Ingredients:
- 3 cups fresh spinach leaves, washed and chopped
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 tomato, chopped
- 1-inch piece of ginger, minced
- 1 tsp cumin seeds
- 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
- 1 tsp garam masala
- 1/2 tsp red chili powder
- 1 tbsp oil or ghee
- 4 cups vegetable broth or water
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Salt to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
- Heat oil or ghee in a pot and add cumin seeds. Once they splutter, add chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.
- Add the minced ginger and chopped tomatoes. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the tomatoes soften.
- Add the chopped spinach leaves, turmeric powder, garam masala, and red chili powder. Stir well and cook for 2-3 minutes.
- Pour in the vegetable broth or water, bring the soup to a boil, and then reduce the heat to simmer for about 10-15 minutes until the spinach is soft.
- Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth, or blend in batches in a regular blender.
- Add lemon juice and salt, then give it a final stir.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot.
Palak Shorba is a wonderfully nourishing soup that combines the health benefits of spinach with the flavors of Indian spices. The spices bring out the natural sweetness of the spinach, while the addition of lemon juice adds a fresh, zesty finish. This light yet flavorful soup is a great way to incorporate more greens into your diet, and it’s perfect for both a light meal and as a refreshing starter to a heavier dish.
Tomato Rasam (Spicy Tomato Soup)
Tomato Rasam is a South Indian-style soup made with tomatoes, tamarind, and a mix of spices like cumin, black pepper, and mustard seeds. It’s known for its tangy and spicy flavor, with a rich depth brought on by the tamarind and the tempering of mustard seeds and curry leaves. This soup is often consumed as a comforting, rejuvenating dish, especially when you’re feeling under the weather. It’s quick, flavorful, and perfect for those who enjoy a bit of heat in their meals.
Ingredients:
- 3 medium-sized tomatoes, chopped
- 1 tbsp tamarind pulp
- 1 tsp mustard seeds
- 1/2 tsp cumin seeds
- 1/2 tsp black pepper powder
- 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
- 1-2 dried red chilies
- 2 tbsp oil
- 4 cups water
- 1 sprig curry leaves
- 1 tbsp fresh coriander leaves for garnish
- Salt to taste
Instructions:
- In a pot, add chopped tomatoes, tamarind pulp, turmeric powder, and black pepper. Pour in the water and bring to a boil.
- Reduce the heat and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes until the tomatoes soften and release their flavors.
- Use an immersion blender or regular blender to puree the soup until smooth.
- In a small pan, heat oil and add mustard seeds. Once they splutter, add cumin seeds, dried red chilies, and curry leaves. Sauté for a minute to release the aromas.
- Add this tempering to the soup, stir well, and simmer for another 5-10 minutes to infuse the flavors.
- Season with salt and garnish with fresh coriander leaves.
- Serve hot with steamed rice or enjoy as a standalone soup.
Tomato Rasam is a bold, tangy, and spicy soup that awakens your taste buds. The tamarind adds a refreshing sourness, while the tempering of mustard seeds and curry leaves lends an authentic South Indian flavor. It’s an excellent soup for those who love spicy, flavorful dishes, and it provides a warm, comforting feel with every sip. Whether served with rice or on its own, Tomato Rasam is a must-try for spice lovers looking for something tangy and full of character.
Kachauli Soup (Lentil and Rice Soup)
Kachauli Soup is a wholesome and nutritious lentil-based soup that’s popular in North India. Combining lentils, rice, and vegetables with a variety of spices, this soup is both light and filling. The flavor profile is enhanced with cumin, turmeric, and ginger, giving it a warmth that is comforting and satisfying. Traditionally served with chapati or steamed rice, this soup is an excellent source of protein, fiber, and essential vitamins. It’s a wonderful way to get a dose of healthy ingredients in a flavorful, easy-to-make soup.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup split yellow moong dal (lentils)
- 1/4 cup basmati rice
- 1 carrot, chopped
- 1 potato, chopped
- 1 tomato, chopped
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1-inch ginger, grated
- 1 tsp cumin seeds
- 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
- 1/2 tsp coriander powder
- 1 tbsp ghee or oil
- 4 cups water or vegetable broth
- 1/2 tsp red chili powder
- Salt to taste
- Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
- In a large pot, add the moong dal, rice, chopped vegetables (carrot, potato, tomato, onion), and water or broth. Bring to a boil.
- Reduce the heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, until the lentils and rice are soft and cooked through.
- In a small pan, heat ghee or oil and add cumin seeds. Once they crackle, add grated ginger, coriander powder, turmeric powder, and red chili powder. Sauté for 2 minutes.
- Add this spice mixture to the simmering lentil and rice mixture. Stir well and cook for another 5 minutes to blend the flavors.
- Season with salt and garnish with fresh cilantro.
- Serve hot with chapati or steamed rice.
Kachauli Soup is a rich and hearty lentil soup that’s perfect for a nourishing meal. The combination of lentils and rice makes it a protein-packed dish, while the warm spices offer depth and comfort. It’s a versatile dish that can be customized with any vegetables of your choice, and it pairs wonderfully with flatbreads or rice. Whether for lunch or dinner, Kachauli Soup is a fantastic, healthy choice for anyone looking for a filling and flavorful meal.
Gajar Shorba (Carrot Soup)
Gajar Shorba is a simple yet flavorful carrot soup infused with the warmth of Indian spices. This soup is made by blending sweet carrots with aromatic cumin, coriander, and black pepper to create a soothing dish. The addition of ginger and garlic adds a zesty touch, while the creamy texture, achieved by adding a little milk or cream, makes it a comforting choice. Gajar Shorba is packed with nutrients and is perfect as a light appetizer or a wholesome main course.
Ingredients:
- 4 large carrots, peeled and chopped
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1-inch piece of ginger, minced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp cumin seeds
- 1/2 tsp coriander powder
- 1/4 tsp black pepper powder
- 1 tbsp ghee or oil
- 3 cups vegetable broth or water
- 1/4 cup milk or cream (optional)
- Salt to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
- Heat ghee or oil in a pot. Add cumin seeds and allow them to splutter. Then add chopped onions, ginger, and garlic, sautéing until the onions turn soft and translucent.
- Add the chopped carrots, coriander powder, black pepper, and salt. Stir well and cook for a few minutes.
- Pour in the vegetable broth or water and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer for 20 minutes, or until the carrots are tender.
- Use an immersion blender or a regular blender to puree the soup until smooth.
- Stir in the milk or cream (optional) for a richer texture, then let it simmer for 5 more minutes.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot.
Gajar Shorba is a vibrant, nutritious soup that highlights the natural sweetness of carrots, balanced by the savory and spicy elements typical of Indian cooking. The smooth, creamy consistency makes it feel luxurious, while the spices bring out layers of flavor that elevate the humble carrot. This soup is a wonderful choice for a light meal or starter, and it’s sure to be enjoyed by both adults and children alike. It’s an easy-to-make soup that offers both comfort and health benefits in one bowl.
Lauki Soup (Bottle Gourd Soup)
Lauki Soup is a light, refreshing, and healthy soup made from bottle gourd, also known as lauki. This vegetable is low in calories and high in water content, making it an ideal base for a detoxifying and hydrating soup. The soup is flavored with typical Indian spices such as cumin, ginger, and coriander, and is finished with a squeeze of lemon for a tangy kick. Lauki Soup is often enjoyed for its soothing properties and is a great way to incorporate a nutritious vegetable into your diet.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups bottle gourd (lauki), peeled and chopped
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 tomato, chopped
- 1-inch ginger, grated
- 1 tsp cumin seeds
- 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
- 1/2 tsp cumin powder
- 1/2 tsp black pepper powder
- 1 tbsp oil or ghee
- 3 cups water or vegetable broth
- Salt to taste
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Fresh coriander leaves for garnish
Instructions:
- Heat oil or ghee in a pot and add cumin seeds. Once they splutter, add chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.
- Add the grated ginger and chopped tomatoes. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the tomatoes become soft.
- Add the chopped bottle gourd (lauki), turmeric powder, cumin powder, black pepper, and salt. Stir well to combine.
- Pour in the water or vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, until the bottle gourd is tender.
- Use an immersion blender or regular blender to puree the soup until smooth.
- Stir in lemon juice and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and serve hot.
Lauki Soup is a light, detoxifying soup that is as refreshing as it is nutritious. The bottle gourd offers a mild, soothing flavor that pairs beautifully with the spices, making it a perfect option for those seeking a healthy and easy-to-digest soup. With its delicate taste and hydrating qualities, Lauki Soup is a wonderful choice for a quick meal or as part of a larger feast. Its simplicity and wholesome ingredients make it a great addition to your regular meal rotation.
Mulligatawny Soup
Mulligatawny is a rich, flavorful, and hearty soup that originated in Southern India and was later adapted by the British. The soup blends lentils, vegetables, and aromatic spices, creating a deliciously complex flavor profile. With its creamy texture and warm, earthy spices like cumin, turmeric, and garam masala, Mulligatawny Soup is a comforting dish often served as an appetizer or main course. This recipe includes coconut milk, which adds a luxurious, creamy touch to the soup, making it perfect for a cozy dinner.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup yellow split peas or moong dal (lentils)
- 1 carrot, chopped
- 1 potato, chopped
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 tomatoes, chopped
- 1 apple, peeled and chopped (optional for sweetness)
- 1-inch ginger, grated
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp cumin seeds
- 1 tsp turmeric powder
- 1 tsp garam masala
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 cup coconut milk
- 4 cups vegetable broth or water
- Salt to taste
- 2 tbsp ghee or oil
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
- Heat ghee or oil in a large pot and add cumin seeds. Once they splutter, add onions, garlic, and ginger. Sauté until the onions are translucent.
- Add chopped carrots, potatoes, and tomatoes. Stir in turmeric powder, garam masala, and black pepper, and cook for 3-4 minutes.
- Add the lentils and vegetable broth (or water) to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the lentils and vegetables are tender.
- If using apple, add it now and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
- Use an immersion blender or regular blender to puree the soup until smooth, then return it to the pot.
- Stir in coconut milk, season with salt, and simmer for another 5 minutes to heat through.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot.
Mulligatawny Soup is a wonderfully aromatic and satisfying dish that combines the richness of coconut milk with the heartiness of lentils and vegetables. The warming spices give it a comforting and flavorful punch, while the addition of an apple balances the richness with a hint of sweetness. Whether served as a starter or as a main dish, Mulligatawny Soup is perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a filling, flavorful meal with the essence of Indian cooking.
Tamatar Shorba (Tomato Soup)
Tamatar Shorba is a spiced Indian tomato soup that’s light yet full of flavor. This soup is a fantastic combination of fresh tomatoes, aromatic spices, and herbs, offering a deliciously tangy and savory taste. Unlike Western-style tomato soups, Tamatar Shorba incorporates Indian spices such as cumin, coriander, and garam masala, providing a unique twist. It’s a simple yet satisfying soup that’s perfect for all occasions, whether as a starter or a light meal.
Ingredients:
- 4 large tomatoes, chopped
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1-inch ginger, grated
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp cumin seeds
- 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
- 1/2 tsp coriander powder
- 1/4 tsp red chili powder
- 1 tbsp oil or ghee
- 4 cups water or vegetable broth
- Salt to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
Instructions:
- Heat oil or ghee in a pot. Add cumin seeds and sauté until they splutter. Then add the chopped onions, ginger, and garlic. Sauté until the onions are translucent.
- Add the chopped tomatoes, turmeric powder, coriander powder, red chili powder, and salt. Cook for about 5 minutes until the tomatoes soften and release their juices.
- Add the water or vegetable broth, and bring it to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer for 15 minutes.
- Use an immersion blender or a regular blender to puree the soup until smooth. You can strain it for a smoother texture if desired.
- Stir in the lemon juice, adjust seasoning, and simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot.
Tamatar Shorba is a deliciously spiced tomato soup that is perfect for anyone looking for a comforting, light meal with a touch of Indian flavor. The tangy tomatoes blend beautifully with the spices, creating a soup that’s both refreshing and satisfying. The addition of lemon juice adds a tangy brightness, while the fresh cilantro garnish brings a burst of herbal freshness. This simple yet flavorful soup is perfect for any time of the year, offering a cozy and nourishing experience.
Chana Soup (Chickpea Soup)
Chana Soup is a hearty, protein-packed soup made with chickpeas, vegetables, and Indian spices. Chickpeas (also known as chana) are a staple in Indian cooking, and they lend themselves perfectly to soups, providing a rich texture and a satisfying flavor. This soup is made by cooking chickpeas with tomatoes, onions, and a blend of spices like cumin, coriander, and garam masala. The result is a warm, filling soup that’s both comforting and healthy, making it an ideal meal for lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup dried chickpeas (or 2 cups canned chickpeas)
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 tomatoes, chopped
- 1-inch ginger, grated
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp cumin seeds
- 1 tsp coriander powder
- 1 tsp garam masala
- 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
- 4 cups vegetable broth or water
- 2 tbsp oil or ghee
- Salt to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions:
- If using dried chickpeas, soak them overnight and cook them in a pressure cooker or pot until soft. If using canned chickpeas, rinse them thoroughly and set aside.
- Heat oil or ghee in a large pot and add cumin seeds. Once they splutter, add chopped onions, ginger, and garlic. Sauté until the onions become soft and golden brown.
- Add chopped tomatoes, coriander powder, garam masala, turmeric powder, and salt. Cook for 5-6 minutes until the tomatoes are soft and well blended with the spices.
- Add the cooked chickpeas and vegetable broth or water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Use a masher to lightly mash the chickpeas for a thicker texture, or leave them whole for a chunkier soup.
- Adjust seasoning, garnish with fresh cilantro, and serve hot with lemon wedges.
Chana Soup is a nutritious, protein-rich dish that highlights the delicious flavor of chickpeas, combined with the aromatic spices that make Indian soups so special. The soup is incredibly satisfying, with the chickpeas providing a hearty base and the spices enhancing every bite. Whether you serve it on its own or pair it with some naan or rice, Chana Soup is a nourishing and filling option that is perfect for any meal of the day.
Note: More recipes are coming soon!