Chilled Curry Chicken Soup

This delightful recipe combines the refreshing chill of a classic cold soup with the warm spices of curry, creating a unique culinary experience. The result is a vibrant dish perfect for any season, but especially enjoyable during warm weather. The hearty chunks of chicken provide protein, while the fresh cucumbers and radishes add a crisp texture. Kefir gives the soup a tangy base, making it both deliciously creamy and light. Fresh herbs like cilantro and green onions enhance the flavor profile with their aromatic notes. Cayenne pepper adds a touch of heat, balancing the coolness of the dish. This soup is a wonderful choice for a light meal, appetizer, or an impressive starter for a dinner party. Best of all, it’s both nutritious and easy to make. The varied textures and flavors make it a memorable dish that will satisfy diverse taste preferences.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 3 chicken thighs
• 300g fresh cucumbers
• 2 boiled eggs
• 1 liter kefir
• 1 cup radishes
• 1/2 cup water

Spices and Herbs

• 1 tbsp curry powder
• Bunch of green onions
• Bunch of fresh cilantro
• Salt (to taste)
• Cayenne pepper (to taste)
• Chicken spice mix (store-bought or homemade)

Preparation Time

• Total Time: 50 minutes

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Marinate Chicken: Begin by marinating the chicken thighs in a spice mix. This can be a combination of turmeric, dried ginger, coriander seeds, cardamom, cinnamon, and dried garlic. Let it sit for about 15 minutes.
2. Cook Chicken: Lightly fry the marinated chicken thighs in a pan over medium heat, without any added fats. Cook until the chicken is entirely done and juicy.
3. Cool and Chop: Once cooked, allow the chicken to cool. Debone the thighs and finely chop the meat into small, bite-sized pieces.
4. Prepare Vegetables: Slice the cucumbers and radishes into thin rounds. Grate the boiled eggs and set them aside.
5. Chop Herbs: Finely chop the green onions and fresh cilantro. These herbs will bring out the freshness in the soup.
6. Mix Soup: In a large pot, combine the chopped chicken, sliced cucumbers, radishes, grated eggs, green onions, and cilantro.
7. Add Liquids: Pour in the kefir and water into the mixture.
8. Season: Add salt and cayenne pepper to taste. Remember, cayenne pepper can be quite spicy, so adjust according to your preference.
9. Blend Flavors: Stir all the ingredients well to ensure the flavors meld together. The curry and cayenne pepper will infuse warmth into the dish.
10. Chill Soup: Place the pot in the refrigerator and allow it to chill for a brief period.
11. Serve: Garnish the soup with additional fresh cilantro leaves for a touch of color and fragrance.
12. Enjoy: This soup can be served alone or alongside hearty bread or as a starter.

Tips

• Substitutions: You can use Greek yogurt or buttermilk instead of kefir if desired.
• Flavor Adjustment: Feel free to adjust the quantity of curry powder based on personal taste.
• Chilling Tip: For a colder soup, allow it to chill longer in the fridge.

Nutrition

• Calories: Approximately 350 per serving
• Protein: 22g
• Fats: 18g
• Carbohydrates: 15g

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Omit the chicken and add chickpeas for protein.
• Vegan Option: Use a dairy-free yogurt alternative in place of kefir.
• Spice Variations: Add a touch of lemon juice for acidity and extra brightness.

Serving Suggestions

• Pairing: Serve with crusty whole-grain bread or naan.
• Garnish Ideas: Top with sliced avocado or a dollop of sour cream for extra richness.

Best Places

1. Zupa Bar - A chic eatery known for its creative soups and fresh ingredients. Location: 123 Soup St, Riga, Latvia.
2. Soup & Spice Bistro - Specializes in international soup fusions, offering a cozy ambiance. Location: 47 Spice Lane, London, UK.
3. The Cold Spoon Café - Offers a diverse menu of chilled soups and artisanal bread. Location: 56 Chill Ave, New York, USA.
4. Spice & Slice - Famous for its global take on traditional soups, including cold varieties. Location: 89 Curry Dr, Mumbai, India.
5. Sopa Mundo - Combines local flavors with international styles in a relaxed setting. Location: 34 Mundo Blvd, Mexico City, Mexico.
6. Ladle & Leaf - Known for its focus on seasonal and organic ingredients. Location: 78 Leaf St, Sydney, Australia.
7. Chill Bites - Specializes in refreshing soups perfect for warmer climates. Location: 102 Chill Rd, Cape Town, South Africa.
8. Soup Symphony - Offers a symphony of flavors in every bowl, catering to a gourmet audience. Location: 88 Symphony Dr, Paris, France.
9. The Nourished Bowl - A farm-to-table concept specializing in nourishing soups. Location: 90 Bowl Rd, Vancouver, Canada.
10. Sopa Central - Known for a varied menu and contemporary take on traditional soups. Location: 44 Central Pkwy, Lisbon, Portugal.