Badan Soup

Introduction to Badan Soup

Badan Soup is a heart-warming and nutritious dish that originates from the highlands of Central Asia. Known for its robust flavors and rich history, this soup was traditionally cooked over an open fire and shared during communal gatherings. The ingredients used in Badan Soup are a reflection of the bountiful land and the resourceful nature of the people. Over the centuries, this dish has evolved but continues to hold a place of honor at any dining table.

The flavors of onion, carrot, and tender mutton harmonize beautifully with fragrant spices, creating a comforting and fulfilling meal. Whether you're battling the chill of winter or just craving something wholesome, Badan Soup is an excellent choice.

Ingredients

• Mutton - 500g, cubed
• Onion - 2 large, chopped
• Garlic - 5 cloves, minced
• Carrot - 2 large, sliced
• Potato - 3 medium, diced
• Cabbage - 1/4 head, shredded
• Tomato - 3, pureed
• Cumin seeds - 1 teaspoon
• Coriander powder - 2 teaspoons
• Red chili powder - 1 teaspoon
• Salt - to taste
• Black pepper - to taste
• Cooking oil - 2 tablespoons
• Water - 6 cups
• Fresh parsley - for garnish

Preparation

Preparing the Ingredients

Before you start cooking, gather all your ingredients and prepare them as instructed. Dice the onion and potato, slice the carrot, and mince the garlic. Shred the cabbage and set aside. Cube the mutton into bite-sized pieces, ensuring you remove any excess fat.

Making the Tomato Puree

Blanch the tomatoes in hot water for a few minutes until their skins begin to peel. Remove from heat, cool, and peel off the skins. Puree the tomatoes in a blender until smooth. This will be the base of our soup, providing rich and deep flavors.

Cooking Process

Browning the Mutton

Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the mutton and sear until all sides are browned. This step is crucial as it develops the depth of flavor characteristic of Badan Soup. Once browned, remove and set aside.

Sautéing the Aromatics

In the same pot, reduce heat to medium and add the onion, garlic, and cumin seeds. Cook until the onions are translucent and the mixture is fragrant, about 5-7 minutes.

Building the Soup Base

Return the browned mutton to the pot. Stir in the pureed tomatoes, carrot, and potatoes. Add coriander powder, red chili powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well to coat the ingredients in the spices.

Pour in water and bring to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover the pot and let the soup cook for approximately 1 hour, or until the mutton is tender and the flavors are melded together. Stir occasionally and check the seasoning, adjusting with more salt and black pepper if needed.

Final Touches

About 10 minutes before the end of the cooking time, add the shredded cabbage. Allow it to wilt and become tender.

Serving the Badan Soup

Ladle the steaming Badan Soup into bowls, making sure each serving is generous with chunks of mutton, vegetables, and broth. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley on top, which adds a pop of color and freshness to the dish.

Badan Soup is best enjoyed with a side of crusty bread or traditional flatbread to soak up the flavorful broth. Pair it with a crisp salad for a well-rounded meal. This soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and often tastes even better the next day as the flavors further develop.

Conclusion

The simplicity and hearty nature of Badan Soup make it a treasured dish passed through generations. In every spoonful, you can taste the history and culture from which this soup was born. It isn't just a meal; it's a shared experience with deep roots in tradition and community. Whether for a cozy night in or a family gathering, Badan Soup is sure to warm hearts and stomachs alike.