Mulligatawny Soup Recipe

Mulligatawny soup is a delicious and flavorful soup that originated in the Indian subcontinent. Its name is derived from the Tamil words "milagu" meaning pepper and "tanni" meaning water, indicating its spicy and peppery nature. The dish was later introduced to the Western world, particularly in Britain during the colonial era. It has since become a popular and well-loved soup globally.

Fun fact: Mulligatawny soup was often referred to as the "Queen of Soups" during the British Raj. It was a favorite among the British officials and settlers in India, who enjoyed the fusion of Indian and British flavors in this unique soup.

Now, let's move on to the recipe!

Ingredients:

- 2 quarts of chicken or vegetable stock
- 1 apple, peeled and diced
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 1 carrot, peeled and diced
- 1/2 oz. of curry powder
- 1 oz. of all-purpose flour
- 1 oz. of butter
- Salt to taste
- Lemon juice to taste
- Well-boiled rice for serving

Instructions:

1. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped apple, onion, and carrot to the saucepan and sauté for a few minutes until they start to soften.

2. Sprinkle the curry powder and flour over the vegetables and continue to cook, stirring continuously, until the curry powder becomes fragrant and the flour is lightly browned. This will help to develop the flavors.

3. Slowly pour the stock into the saucepan, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer gently for about one hour. This will allow the flavors to meld together and create a rich and flavorful soup base.

4. Once the soup has simmered for the desired time, remove it from the heat and let it cool slightly. Transfer the soup to a blender or use an immersion blender to puree the mixture until smooth. This step will give the soup its creamy and silky texture.

5. Return the pureed soup to the saucepan and place it back on the heat. Bring it to a simmer, then season with salt and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice. Adjust the seasoning according to your taste preferences.

6. To serve, ladle the Mulligatawny soup into warmed individual bowls or a large tureen. Accompany the soup with well-boiled rice, which can be added to each serving according to personal preference.

Mulligatawny soup is a versatile dish and can be customized to suit your taste. You can add additional ingredients such as cooked chicken, lentils, or vegetables to make it heartier. Garnish options include chopped fresh cilantro, a dollop of plain yogurt, or a sprinkle of toasted almonds for added texture and flavor.

Similar recipe dishes that reflect the fusion of flavors and influence from different cultures include Thai coconut curry soup, tomato and coconut curry soup, and spiced lentil soup. These soups share a common thread of using spices, herbs, and ingredients that create bold and vibrant flavors. They are comforting, satisfying, and perfect for warming up on a chilly day.

So, whether you are a fan of Indian cuisine, enjoy British classics, or simply love exploring new flavors, Mulligatawny soup is a must-try recipe. Its rich history and unique blend of ingredients make it a delightful culinary adventure for the taste buds.