Spicy and Fragrant Hawaij Vegetable Soup

This Hawaij Vegetable Soup is a delightful blend of aromatic spices and hearty vegetables. Inspired by traditional Yemeni cuisine, the soup is bursting with flavor and perfect for a cozy meal. The hawaij spice blend elevates the dish with its unique blend of bold spices, giving the soup a warm and comforting taste. This easy-to-make soup is versatile and can be customized with your favorite vegetables and herbs. Enjoy this healthy and nourishing soup as a starter or a main course, and savor the richness of the Yemeni spice culture.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon hawaij spice blend
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 2 cups diced tomatoes
• 2 carrots, sliced
• 2 celery stalks, sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, diced
• 1 zucchini, diced
• 1 cup chopped kale
• 1 cup cooked chickpeas
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro or parsley, for garnish

Directions

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the hawaij spice blend, cumin, turmeric, paprika, cinnamon, and cayenne pepper. Stir well to coat the onions and garlic with the spices.
4. Pour in the vegetable broth and diced tomatoes. Stir to combine.
5. Add the carrots, celery, red and yellow bell peppers, zucchini, chopped kale, and cooked chickpeas.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 20 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
8. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if needed.
9. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley.
10. Serve hot and enjoy!

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