Soothing Ridge Gourd Soup
A light and hydrating ridge gourd soup, perfect for a gentle meal or when seeking comfort, featuring a subtle warmth from black pepper.
For 4 servings
Prepare Ingredients: Wash and peel the ridge gourd, then chop it into 1-inch pieces. Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic.
Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a medium pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
Simmer Ridge Gourd: Add the chopped ridge gourd to the pot and sauté for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil.
Cook until Tender: Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the ridge gourd is very tender and easily mashed with a spoon.
Blend the Soup: Carefully remove the pot from the heat. Using an immersion blender, blend the soup directly in the pot until completely smooth. Alternatively, transfer the soup in batches to a regular blender and blend until smooth (exercise caution when blending hot liquids).
Adjust Consistency and Season: Return the blended soup to the stovetop over low heat. If the soup is too thick, add a little more vegetable broth or hot water until it reaches your desired consistency. Stir in the salt and freshly ground black pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Serve: Ladle the hot soup into bowls. Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro, if desired, and serve immediately.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Don't Overcook: While ridge gourd needs to be tender, overcooking can sometimes lead to a slightly bitter taste. Cook just until soft.
- 2Fresh Black Pepper: Always use freshly ground black pepper for the best flavor and aroma; pre-ground pepper loses its potency quickly.
- 3Immersion Blender: An immersion blender makes this soup incredibly easy to prepare as you can blend it directly in the pot, saving on cleanup.
- 4Adjust Thickness: If you prefer a thinner soup, add more hot broth or water after blending until you reach your desired consistency.
Adapt it for your goals.
Ginger Boost
Add 1 inch of grated fresh ginger along with the garlic for an extra digestive boost and warm flavor.
Creamy VersionCreamy Version
For a richer soup, stir in 1/4 cup of coconut milk or cashew cream after blending and heat gently.
Herbaceous TwistHerbaceous Twist
Finish with a sprinkle of fresh mint or dill instead of cilantro for a different aromatic profile.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Hydration
Ridge gourd is over 90% water, making this soup excellent for maintaining hydration, especially when feeling unwell.
Digestive Aid
Rich in dietary fiber, ridge gourd promotes healthy digestion and can help alleviate constipation. Black pepper also aids in nutrient absorption.
Nutrient-Rich
Contains vitamins (like Vitamin C and A) and minerals (like zinc, iron, magnesium) that support overall health and immunity.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, this soup can be made 2-3 days in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a little water or broth if it has thickened.
