Mulligatawny Soup

Mulligatawny Soup is a delightful blend of spices and chicken, making it the perfect choice for cozy nights. This comforting soup warms you from the inside out, offering a unique taste that combines traditional flavors with contemporary ease. Ideal for gatherings or simple family dinners, Mulligatawny Soup is sure to impress everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comforting Flavor: The blend of spices creates a soothing and rich flavor profile that you’ll crave on chilly days.
• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward instructions, this recipe allows even novice cooks to create an impressive dish.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily switch up the vegetables or spices according to your preferences while keeping the essence of the soup intact.
• Nutritious and Filling: Packed with protein and fiber, this soup is not only delicious but also nourishing.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week; it tastes even better the next day!

Tools and Preparation

To make Mulligatawny Soup efficiently, you’ll need some basic kitchen tools. Having the right equipment can streamline your cooking process and ensure great results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• A stock pot or Dutch oven
• A sharp knife
• A cutting board
• Measuring spoons
• A stirring spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Stock Pot or Dutch Oven: Essential for even heat distribution, allowing for proper simmering of the soup.
• Sharp Knife: Makes chopping ingredients quick and easy, ensuring uniform pieces for even cooking.
• Cutting Board: Provides a safe surface for chopping vegetables, protecting your countertops.
• Measuring Spoons: Accurate measurements are critical for achieving the perfect balance of flavors.

Ingredients

This classic spiced chicken soup is a winter favorite — so tasty, gently spiced and ultra comforting.

For the Soup Base

• 1 pound boneless chicken (breast or thighs, your choice, sliced into short, thin strips)
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
• 2 teaspoons garam masala
• 1 pinch cayenne pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon flour
• 3 tablespoons olive or coconut oil, (divided usage)

Vegetables and Aromatics

• 1 small/medium onion, (chopped)
• 2 ribs celery, (chopped)
• 1 carrot, (peeled and chopped)
• 2 cloves garlic, (minced)

For Flavoring

• 1 tablespoon garam masala
• 2 teaspoons curry powder (mild or hot, your choice)
• 1 quart chicken broth

Final Ingredients

• 1/2 cup uncooked white rice
• 1 sweet-tart apple (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp, peeled)
• 14 ounce can coconut milk, (well shaken)
• salt and pepper to taste

How to Make Mulligatawny Soup

Step 1: Heat Oil

Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a 4-5 qt stock pot or Dutch oven over medium until shimmering.

Step 2: Cook Chicken

Toss chicken pieces with the seasonings and flour. Add to pot. Brown chicken on all sides — cooking through completely — then remove to a plate or bowl and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté Vegetables

Add another tablespoon of oil to pot (still on medium heat). When shimmering, add onions, celery, and carrots. Sauté until soft. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant (about one minute).

Step 4: Bloom Spices

Push vegetables to one side. Add remaining tablespoon of oil in bare spot; heat briefly. Sprinkle garam masala, curry powder, flour, and a pinch of salt over oil. Stir to form a fragrant paste before mixing with vegetables.

Step 5: Combine Broth

Add a small amount of chicken stock to smooth out any lumps formed by roux. Pour in remaining chicken stock; turn heat to medium-high. Bring soup to a gentle boil; add rice. Reduce heat back to medium-low; partially cover pot and cook for 15 minutes.

Step 6: Add Apple & Chicken

Grate apple directly over soup to catch juices; stir in reserved chicken. Cook for an additional five minutes. Taste; add salt as necessary.

Step 7: Finish with Coconut Milk

Turn heat to low; add coconut milk, stirring thoroughly. Let heat through before tasting again; adjust salt and pepper as desired.

How to Serve Mulligatawny Soup

Mulligatawny soup is versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether as an appetizer or a main course, this comforting dish pairs well with many accompaniments that enhance its flavors.

With Crusty Bread

• Serve with a warm loaf of crusty bread that can soak up the delicious broth. A sourdough or baguette works perfectly.

Over Rice

• Spoon the Mulligatawny soup over a bed of rice. This adds extra texture and makes it a heartier meal.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Garnish each bowl with chopped cilantro or parsley for a fresh touch that elevates the dish.

With a Side Salad

• A light salad featuring mixed greens and a tangy vinaigrette complements the rich flavors of the soup.

Accompanied by Yogurt

• A dollop of plain yogurt on top can balance the spices and add creaminess to each spoonful.

With Spicy Pickles

• Serve alongside spicy pickles for those who enjoy an extra kick. The contrast of flavors creates an exciting taste experience.

How to Perfect Mulligatawny Soup

Creating the perfect Mulligatawny soup involves attention to detail and a few key techniques. Here are some tips to elevate your soup-making game.

• Use quality chicken – Opt for fresh, high-quality chicken pieces for better flavor and tenderness.
• Balance spices – Adjust the spices according to your taste preference; don’t hesitate to experiment with more or less heat.
• Add depth with broth – Homemade chicken broth enhances the flavor significantly compared to store-bought options.
• Incorporate vegetables – Feel free to add other vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for added nutrition and color.
• Allow time for flavors to meld – Letting the soup simmer longer develops richer flavors, so patience is key!
• Garnish generously – Don’t skip on garnishing; fresh herbs can transform the look and taste of your dish.

Best Side Dishes for Mulligatawny Soup

Pairing side dishes with Mulligatawny soup can create a complete meal experience. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Naan Bread – This soft, fluffy bread is perfect for dipping into the soup.
2. Vegetable Samosas – Crispy pastry filled with spiced potatoes and peas adds crunch and flavor.
3. Rice Pilaf – A fragrant rice dish enhances the meal’s aroma while complementing the soup.
4. Cucumber Raita – A cooling yogurt dip that balances the warmth of spices in the soup.
5. Roasted Cauliflower – Seasoned roasted cauliflower adds a wonderful texture contrast.
6. Chickpea Salad – A refreshing chickpea salad brings protein and freshness to your table.
7. Stuffed Bell Peppers – These colorful veggies can be stuffed with quinoa or rice for extra sustenance.
8. Savory Muffins – Savory muffins, especially those flavored with herbs, make delightful accompaniments.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Mulligatawny Soup, it’s easy to overlook some details. Here are common mistakes and how to steer clear of them:

• Skipping the Browning Step: Not browning the chicken properly can result in a less flavorful soup. Ensure you brown the chicken on all sides for maximum taste.

• Ignoring Spice Blooming: Failing to bloom your spices may lead to blandness. Always sauté your spices with a bit of oil before adding liquids to enhance their flavors.

• Using Low-Quality Broth: A poor-quality broth can diminish the soup’s overall taste. Opt for a rich homemade or high-quality store-bought chicken broth for the best results.

• Overcooking the Rice: Overcooked rice can turn mushy and ruin your soup’s texture. Add rice during the last 15 minutes of cooking to maintain its integrity.

• Not Tasting Before Serving: Skipping the final taste test can leave your soup unseasoned. Always taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper before serving.

• Forgetting About Leftovers: Not storing leftovers properly can lead to spoilage. Make sure to refrigerate or freeze any leftover soup promptly.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Mulligatawny Soup in an airtight container.
• It will keep for about 3-4 days in the fridge.

Freezing Mulligatawny Soup

• Allow the soup to cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers, leaving space at the top for expansion.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Mulligatawny Soup

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and place soup in an oven-safe dish covered with foil until heated through.

• Microwave: Place soup in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot, stirring in between.

• Stovetop: Pour soup into a pot and heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Mulligatawny Soup:

What is Mulligatawny Soup?

Mulligatawny Soup is a spiced chicken soup that combines Indian flavors with British culinary traditions, making it comforting and aromatic.

Can I make Mulligatawny Soup vegetarian?

Yes! You can substitute chicken with vegetables like chickpeas or lentils and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a delicious vegetarian option.

How spicy is Mulligatawny Soup?

The spice level of Mulligatawny Soup can vary. You can control it by adjusting the amount of cayenne pepper and curry powder used in the recipe.

Can I use leftover chicken for this recipe?

Absolutely! Leftover cooked chicken works well in Mulligatawny Soup, allowing you to save time while still enjoying great flavor.

Final Thoughts

Mulligatawny Soup is not only beautifully aromatic but also adaptable to various tastes and dietary preferences. Whether you’re looking for comfort on a cold day or want a hearty meal, this recipe shines. Feel free to customize it with your favorite vegetables or spices for a unique twist!