Exploring the Unique World of Cold and Chilled Soups
Looking for a refreshing and flavorful addition to your summer menu? Cold and chilled soups are the perfect choice. They are not only easy to make but also incredibly delicious. In this article, we'll explore three unique recipes that you can try. Each recipe offers a different twist on the classic cold soup theme, from a creamy and tangy coconut and avocado soup to a homemade gazpacho and a unique cucumber soup with a twist of spices.
Dive into the World of Cold Soups
Cold soups, also known as gazpacho in many cultures, are perfect for hot summer days. They are refreshing, filling, and can be enjoyed as a starter or even a light meal. Whether you prefer a simple, no-fuss recipe or something more complex with a unique flavor profile, there's a cold soup that's perfect for you.
Simple Blender Gazpacho
Creating a delicious and refreshing gazpacho is easier than you might think. Here's a simple recipe that you can make for 4 people:
Chill two cucumbers, peel them, but leave some green skin visible. Use a can of refrigerated low-salt tomato juice, two limes, a bit of wine vinegar, and a bit of olive oil. Puree it in two batches in a blender to ensure a smooth texture. Mix everything in a serving bowl, add a dash of tabasco sauce for a bit of spice, and adjust the saltiness to your liking. Decorate the soup with chopped tomatoes, diced avocado, and diced sweet onion for a pleasing visual and additional flavor.Creamy Avocado and Coconut Soup
This creamy and tangy soup is a favorite for those who enjoy avocado and coconut. Here's how to make it:
Take three or four very ripe Hass avocados and two cans of coconut milk. Saute a half mediumsized onion in a small amount of oil until it's soft. Add a tablespoon of sambal oelek or Korean chili paste, depending on what you have on hand, and stir until well combined. Blend everything in a blender or use a stick blender to achieve a smooth puree. Thicken the soup with some vegetable stock if necessary. Add lime juice and salt according to taste. Garnish with chopped cilantro, scallions, or chives if you prefer cilantro.Cucumber Soup with a Twist of Spices
This cold cucumber soup is inspired by traditional recipes, with a modern twist. Here's how to make it:
Take a quart of buttermilk and two medium-sized cucumbers. Peel and cube them. Puree the mixture in a food processor, blender, or use an immersion blender. Chill the soup in the refrigerator. Toasted a tablespoon of cumin seeds using a pan or a skillet until aromatic and well-toasted but not burnt. Let them cool, then grind them into a medium powder using a suribachi and a wooden pestle. Season the chilled soup to taste with a bit of salt and lemon juice if desired. Sprinkle some of the toasted cumin powder on each serving to add extra flavor. Variation: For a different flavor, use chopped fresh dill instead of cumin.Enjoy these delicious and refreshing cold soups that will brighten up any summer meal. Experiment with different combinations of ingredients to create your unique recipe. Whether you're making a simple gazpacho, a creamy avocado and coconut soup, or a cucumber soup with a twist of spices, there's a cold soup designed to suit your palate.