| Prep: 25 mins | Cook: 60 mins | Difficulty: Moderate | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 368 | 8g | 5g | 54g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 8g | 15g | 22g | 0.38g |
The first time I tasted Spicy Urad Bean Soup, I knew it would become a staple in my kitchen. Its hearty warmth evokes fond memories of family gatherings centered around the dining table. Raised in a vibrant Miami home with a heavy Cuban and Spanish influence, I was drawn towards incorporating familiar Caribbean tastes into my dishes, and this soup was no different.
Soup for the Soul and Body
Beyond flavorful, this Spicy Urad Bean Soup is a bowl full of nutritional benefits. Urad beans, the star of this recipe, are dense with protein and fiber, making you feel satiated for longer. The inclusion of cumin and turmeric, staple spices in many traditional Asian dishes, introduces anti-inflammatory properties. A hint of coconut milk introduces healthy fats, lending to the soup’s creamy consistency while also contributing to cardiovascular health. The addition of fresh cilantro not only elevates the presentation, but it also serves as a rich source of vitamins A and K.
Fit for Comfort and Celebrations
The beauty of this recipe lies not only in its ingredients but also in its striking versatility. Much like how I’ve skillfully moved between the rhythms of salsa and flamenco as a dance teacher, this Spicy Urad Bean Soup can glide from being a cozy weeknight dinner to being the star of a festive dinner party.
If you’re familiar with Cuban Black Bean Soup, you’ll find that this Spicy Urad Bean Soup shares similar earthy, hearty notes brought about by the beans. However, the daring kick from the green chilies and the robust coconut-lemon duo are unique twists that make this soup memorable. If you’re keen on making it a complete meal, try pairing it with Simple Yellow Rice or a side of Whole Wheat Flatbread. Serving these on the side provides a textural contrast that compliments the creamy soup beautifully.
Indeed, every spoonful of the Spicy Urad Bean Soup is a testament to the beautiful harmony that exists when seemingly disparate worlds come together– in this case, my Spanish roots, Cuban influence, and the essence of traditional Asian cuisine. It is a bowlful of my culinary journey, celebrating the dance of flavors across latitudes. Just as the rhythm of a melody is incomplete without beats, so is my kitchen without this gem of a soup.
What You’ll Need
- 2 cups Urad Beans
- 6 cups Water
- 2 Green Chillies
- 1 tablespoon Ginger, minced
- 2 Garlic Cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon Turmeric Powder
- 2 teaspoons Cumin
- 1 large Onion, chopped
- 2 large Tomatoes, chopped
- 1 cup Coconut Milk
- 2 tablespoons Lemon Juice
- 1 tablespoon Olive Oil
- 1 teaspoon Red Chili Flakes
- 2 tablespoons Freshly Chopped Cilantro
- Salt to taste
Method
Step One
Start by rinsing the urad beans under cold water until the water runs clear. After that, soak them in 4 cups of water for at least 6 hours or overnight.
Step Two
In a large pot, heat up the olive oil. Add the chopped onions, minced garlic and ginger to the pot and sauté until the onions are transparent and the garlic and ginger are fragrant.
Step Three
Add the turmeric powder, cumin, and red chili flakes to the pot, stirring well to combine with the onion, garlic, and ginger. Cook for another minute to allow the spices to release their flavor.
Step Four
Now add the soaked and drained urad beans to the pot along with the chopped tomatoes and green chillies. Stir everything well to combine and then add the remaining 2 cups of water.
Step Five
Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for around 40 minutes or until the beans are tender and the soup is thickened.
Step Six
Turn off the heat and stir in the coconut milk, lemon juice, and freshly chopped cilantro. Season with salt to taste and let the soup sit for a few minutes to allow the flavors to blend together.
Step Seven
Before serving, stir the soup once more and then ladle it into bowls. Garnish with a little extra cilantro if desired and enjoy your spicy urad bean soup!
