Butha-Buthe Soup - Lesotho
"Butha-Buthe Soup is a traditional dish from Lesotho, a co..."
🍲 Bhuta Bhute Soup 🌿
This vibrant and hearty soup combines the earthy flavors of split peas and spinach with the zesty brightness of tangerines, making it a delightful vegetarian dish perfect for any occasion.
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🌍 What Is Bhuta Bhute Soup?
Bhuta Bhute Soup is a traditional dish from the Kingdom of Calabar, known for its rich flavors and nutritional benefits. This vegetarian version uses vegetable stock instead of chicken stock, making it accessible for everyone while still retaining the essence of the original recipe.
🧾 Ingredients
**Base:**
- 3 liters vegetable stock
- ¾ cup split peas (soaked overnight and drained)
- 3 onions (finely chopped)
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons turmeric
- 500 grams spinach (finely chopped)
- ¾ cup corn flour
**Optional:**
- Zest of 2 tangerines
- Juice of 4 tangerines
- A bunch of coriander (half for cooking, half for garnish)
- A bunch of parsley
- Yogurt (for serving)
- Crusty bread (such as jalapeno and cheddar cheese bread or mealy bread)
👩🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions
1. **Prepare the Stock**
- Bring 3 liters of vegetable stock to a boil in a large pot.
2. **Cook the Split Peas**
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- Add the soaked split peas to the boiling stock.
- Cover the pot and let it bubble for about 20 minutes on high heat.
3. **Sauté the Onions**
- In a separate pan, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
- Add the finely chopped onions and sauté for about 5 minutes until they become translucent.
4. **Add Turmeric**
- Lower the heat and stir in 3 tablespoons of turmeric, mixing well for about 1 minute.
5. **Prepare Corn Flour Mixture**
- In a bowl, mix ¾ cup of corn flour with 150 milliliters of water until smooth and gloopy.
6. **Combine Ingredients**
- Remove the sautéed onions from heat and add them to the bubbling stock.
- Stir in the corn flour mixture until well combined.
7. **Add Spinach and Citrus**
- Add the chopped spinach to the pot, followed by the zest and juice of the tangerines, and half of the coriander and parsley.
- Stir well and let it simmer for about 25 minutes.
8. **Final Touches**
- After 25 minutes, give the soup a good stir. It should be thick and fragrant.
🍽️ How to Serve
Serve the Bhuta Bhute Soup hot, topped with a dollop of yogurt and garnished with the remaining coriander. Pair it with crusty bread for a complete meal.
💡 Pro Tips
- For added depth of flavor, consider using smoked paprika or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
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- If you prefer a creamier texture, blend a portion of the soup before serving.
🔥 Why You’ll Love This
This soup is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients from the split peas and spinach. The unique combination of tangerine adds a refreshing twist, making it a comforting dish that warms the soul while being kind to the planet. Perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in!