Ecuador > Soup > Lentil Soup

Vegetarian Fanesca with Lentils Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 cup of lentils
- 1 cup of rice
- 1 cup of pumpkin, peeled and chopped
- 1 cup of sweet potato, peeled and chopped
- 1 cup of green beans, chopped
- 1 cup of corn kernels
- 1 cup of fava beans, cooked and peeled
- 1 cup of peas
- 1 cup of milk
- 1 cup of heavy cream
- 1 cup of cheese, grated
- 1 onion, chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon of cumin
- 1 tablespoon of paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Water as needed

Special equipment needed:
- Large pot
- Blender or food processor

Step-by-step instructions:
1. Rinse the lentils and place them in a large pot with enough water to cover them. Bring to a boil and let simmer for 20 minutes.
2. Add the rice to the pot and continue cooking for another 20 minutes.
3. In a separate pot, cook the pumpkin and sweet potato until tender. Drain and mash them together.
4. Add the mashed pumpkin and sweet potato to the lentil and rice mixture.
5. Add the green beans, corn, fava beans, and peas to the pot.
6. In a skillet, sauté the onion and garlic until translucent. Add the cumin and paprika and cook for 1-2 minutes.
7. Add the onion and garlic mixture to the pot.
8. Add the milk, heavy cream, and grated cheese to the pot. Stir well.
9. Add water as needed to achieve the desired consistency.
10. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
11. Using a blender or food processor, puree the soup until smooth.
12. Serve hot.


Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 60 minutes
5. Temperature:
Medium heat
Serving size:
6-8 servings

Nutritional information:
Calories: 350
Fat: 15g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Protein: 15g
Fiber: 10g

Substitutions for ingredients:
- Lentils can be substituted with other legumes such as chickpeas or black beans.
- Rice can be substituted with quinoa or barley.
- Pumpkin and sweet potato can be substituted with butternut squash or acorn squash.
- Green beans can be substituted with zucchini or broccoli.
- Fava beans can be substituted with lima beans or edamame.

Variations:
- Add diced tomatoes for a tangy flavor.
- Add chopped cilantro or parsley for a fresh taste.
- Use vegetable broth instead of water for a richer flavor.

Tips and tricks:
- Soak the lentils overnight to reduce cooking time.
- Use a hand blender for a chunkier texture.
- Serve with avocado slices or croutons for added texture.

Storage instructions:
Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Reheating instructions:
Reheat in a pot over medium heat until heated through.

Presentation ideas:
Serve in a bowl with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of paprika.

Garnishes:
Chopped cilantro, parsley, or scallions.

Pairings:
Crusty bread or cornbread.

Suggested side dishes:
Green salad or roasted vegetables.

Troubleshooting advice:
If the soup is too thick, add more water or milk to thin it out.

Food safety advice:
Make sure all vegetables are thoroughly washed before cooking.

Food history:
Fanesca is a traditional Ecuadorian soup that is typically served during Holy Week.

Flavor profiles:
Creamy, savory, and slightly sweet.

Serving suggestions:
Serve as a main dish for lunch or dinner.

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Region: Ecuadorian

Taste: Savory, Tangy, Herby, Earthy, Nutty, Aromatic