Soup > African > Spicy Soup

Spicy Bissara Soup Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups dried fava beans
- 6 cups water
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Lemon wedges for serving

Special equipment needed:
- Blender or immersion blender

Step-by-step instructions:
1. Rinse the dried fava beans and soak them in water overnight.
2. Drain the beans and add them to a large pot with 6 cups of water. Bring to a boil and then reduce heat to a simmer. Cook for 1-2 hours, or until the beans are tender.
3. In a separate pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until the onion is translucent.
4. Add the cumin, paprika, and cayenne pepper to the onion mixture and stir to combine.
5. Add the onion mixture to the pot with the cooked fava beans. Use an immersion blender or transfer the soup to a blender and blend until smooth.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot with lemon wedges on the side.


- Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes (plus overnight soaking)
- Cooking time: 1-2 hours
Temperature:
- Simmer
Serving size:
- 4-6 servings

Nutritional information:
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 7g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Protein: 13g
- Fiber: 12g

Substitutions for ingredients:
- Dried chickpeas can be used instead of fava beans.
- Vegetable broth can be used instead of water for a richer flavor.

Variations:
- Add chopped fresh parsley or cilantro to the soup for added flavor.
- Top with croutons or a dollop of yogurt for added texture.

Tips and tricks:
- Soaking the beans overnight will help them cook faster and more evenly.
- Be sure to blend the soup until it is completely smooth for the best texture.

Storage instructions:
- Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating instructions:
- Reheat the soup in a pot over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.

Presentation ideas:
- Serve the soup in individual bowls with a lemon wedge on the side.

Garnishes:
- Chopped fresh parsley or cilantro
- Croutons
- Yogurt

Pairings:
- Serve with crusty bread or pita for dipping.

Suggested side dishes:
- Hummus and vegetables
- Grilled chicken or fish

Troubleshooting advice:
- If the soup is too thick, add more water or broth until it reaches the desired consistency.

Food safety advice:
- Be sure to soak the beans overnight to ensure they are fully hydrated and safe to eat.

Food history:
- Bissara is a traditional Moroccan soup made from fava beans that is typically served during Ramadan.

Flavor profiles:
- Spicy, earthy, and savory

Serving suggestions:
- Serve as a starter or as a main dish with a side salad.

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Region: Moroccan

Taste: Spicy, Savory, Garlicky, Herby, Tangy