### Eastern-Style Mulligatawny Soup Recipe: A Flavorful Journey
#### Introduction to Mulligatawny Soup
Mulligatawny soup is a traditional South Indian dish that has gained popularity across the world due to its unique flavor profile and comforting nature. This recipe presents an eastern twist, focusing on authentic flavors while adding a modern touch.
#### Ingredients Needed:
- 1 cup split green lentils
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or ghee
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
- 1 large celery stalk, chopped
- 2-inch piece of ginger, grated
- 2 medium tomatoes, chopped
- 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
- ½ teaspoon cumin seeds
- ¼ teaspoon asafoetida (hing)
- 2 green chilies, minced
- 3 cups beef or chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- Salt to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
#### Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. **Preparation:**
- Rinse the lentils and set aside.
- Dice the onion, chop the carrots and celery, mince the garlic, and grate the ginger.
2. **Cooking Aromatics:**
- Heat oil or ghee in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add cumin seeds and asafoetida to the pot; sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the diced onion, garlic, carrots, celery, and ginger. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 5 minutes or until the vegetables start to soften.
3. **Adding Spices:**
- Stir in turmeric, minced green chilies, and tomato paste into the vegetable mixture. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, ensuring the spices are well incorporated and fragrant.
4. **Adding Lentils and Broth:**
- Add the rinsed lentils to the pot along with beef or chicken broth. Bring the soup to a boil over high heat.
5. **Simmering:**
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer for about 30-40 minutes until the lentils are tender.
6. **Final Touches:**
- Season with salt to taste. You can also blend a portion of the soup to achieve a smooth consistency if desired.
7. **Serving:**
- Ladle the mulligatawny soup into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
#### Tips for Perfecting Your Soup:
- Use freshly grated ginger and minced garlic for the best flavor.
- Ensure your lentils are well rinsed to avoid any gritty texture in the soup.
- For an even richer taste, consider adding a pinch of ground cinnamon or nutmeg.
#### Conclusion
Enjoy this Eastern-style mulligatawny soup as a hearty meal on chilly evenings. Perfectly balanced with earthy spices and tender vegetables, it’s sure to become a staple in your recipe collection. Don't forget to share the joy of cooking by inviting friends over for a cozy dinner night!
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