| Prep: 20 mins | Cook: 60 mins | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 375 | 19g | 8g | 23g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 7g | 4g | 30g | 1.2g |
If there’s one thing I truly cherish in my culinary explorations, it is discovering and recreating recipes that hold a special place in different cultures while blending them with my Southern roots. And so, I’ve fallen head over heels for this traditional South African dish that, in so many ways, reminds me of home – the delectable Waterblommetjie Soup with Freshly Baked Bread.
The Harmony of Flavors
Just like a Southern gumbo or stew, the Waterblommetjie Soup with Freshly Baked Bread brings together a spectrum of hearty and comforting flavours. The delicate waterblommetjies, combined with chunks of tender lamb, create a unique profile that fits snugly into the soul food category. This delightful dish is akin to our beloved Charleston casserole – earthy, heartwarming, and perfect for family evenings.
A Touch of Health
I’m a firm believer in deriving pleasure from what you eat, but I also believe that food should nourish us. This recipe does just that. Waterblommetjies are high in dietary fibre, contributing to gut health and aiding in digestion. The lamb provides much-needed protein, while the various vegetables add essential vitamins and minerals. Combined, these ingredients construct a surprisingly nutritious feast without sacrificing flavor.
A glass of crisp white wine beautifully complements this dish, the acidity slicing through the richness of the soup. This recipe is similar to other hearty stew-like dishes in the Southern tradition, yet the unique use of waterblommetjies sets it apart. It also pairs wonderfully with a batch of freshly-baked biscuits, the kind that I grew up cooking back in Charleston.
If you’re curious to know more about the waterblommetjies’ origin and its central role in other South African dishes, read more here.
Ever-craving new culinary experiences, I occasionally find an adventure that bridges the taste sensations of my delightful Southern staples with the flavors of a far-off land. The Waterblommetjie Soup with Freshly Baked Bread is definitely one of those adventures. Try it for yourself and discover the joy of soulful, global cuisine.
What You’ll Need
- 2 lbs waterblommetjies
- 1.5 lbs boneless lamb, cubed
- 2 large onions, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 5 cups vegetable broth
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 medium potato, diced
- 1/2 cup white wine
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- Pinch of salt
- Few sprigs of fresh thyme
- Freshly baked bread
Method
Step One
Start by cleaning the waterblommetjies and removing any tough stems. Soak them in cold, salted water for about an hour to remove any mud.
Step Two
Meanwhile, take a large pot and add the cubed lamb. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the lamb is evenly browned.
Step Three
Add the chopped onions and minced garlic to the pot. Continue to cook, stirring frequently, until the onions are translucent.
Step Four
Pour in the vegetable broth. Add the diced carrots, celery, and potato to the pot. Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a boil.
Step Five
Once boiling, reduce the heat and simmer uncovered for about 2 hours. Skim off any excess fat that rises to the top.
Step Six
Drain the waterblommetjies and add them to the pot. Pour in the white wine and season with black pepper and a pinch of salt.
Step Seven
Add a few sprigs of fresh thyme to the pot. Continue to simmer for another hour, or until the waterblommetjies are tender.
Step Eight
Once the soup is ready, ladle it into bowls. Serve hot with slices of freshly baked bread. Enjoy this traditional South African dish!
