The country is witnessing one of its favourite seasons, which is the monsoon. With rain pouring down outside in cold and cosy weather, our souls and stomachs demand some luscious broths. Broth, a nourishing and comforting liquid prepared by simmering meats, bones, and vegetables, has its own regional variations and significance across India.
From the snowy mountains of the North to the coastal regions of the South, broth occupies an important position in culinary space. Broths have been an integral part of Indian cuisine for centuries, with mentions in ancient Ayurvedic texts for their therapeutic properties. In traditional Indian households, the broth is often served as a warming soup during the monsoon and winter, and it is also a staple in feasts and celebrations, symbolising hospitality and abundance. Broth features a blend of aromatic spices along with fresh ingredients, corresponding to specific regions across India. Its unique taste has a long history behind it.
Besides, the broth is renowned for its numerous health benefits. The slow simmering process extracts essential nutrients from bones, vegetables, and meats, resulting in a nutrient-dense liquid. The presence of collagen, gelatin, and amino acids in broth supports joint health and aids in digestion. The anti-inflammatory properties of the spices used in Indian broths, like turmeric and ginger, contribute to overall wellness and may help alleviate certain ailments, including common colds and respiratory issues. Broths are also valued for their ability to boost the immune system, making them a comforting remedy during times of illness.
Take a look at the six local broths hailing from different parts of India:
- Paya Shorba
This popular broth hails from the northern states and holds a special place in the hearts of food lovers. This is a delightful and nourishing soup made from tender lamb or goat trotters. This is made by simmering the meat with aromatic spices. The slow cooking allows the flavours to infuse deeply, resulting in a thick and nourishing liquid. Rich in gelatin, this broth is often consumed during the winter months as it provides a comforting respite from the cold weather.
- Thukpa
Thukpa, a soul-warming noodle soup originating from the Himalayan region, has become a beloved culinary delight across India and neighbouring countries. This flavourful and hearty dish is a perfect amalgamation of Tibetan and Nepalese culinary influences. The broth is made by simmering the vegetables, meat (especially chicken or pork), and noodles for an extended period, allowing the flavours to marry beautifully. Apart from being a popular choice during chilly weather, it is a comforting remedy during bouts of cold and flu.
- Mulligatawny Soup
This Anglo-Indian broth hailing from Tamil Nadu has won the hearts of millions across India. It features a fusion of Indian and British flavours. This rich and creamy concoction typically combines lentils, vegetables, and sometimes chicken or lamb, all harmoniously blended with an array of spices such as cumin, coriander, turmeric, and, of course, black pepper. Coconut milk is often added to impart a luscious texture and subtle sweetness to the soup.
- Nihari
This is an iconic broth from Delhi with a touch of Pakistani cuisine. This rich and flavourful dish is typically made with tender pieces of beef or lamb, simmered for hours in a blend of fragrant spices, including cinnamon, cardamom, cloves, and nutmeg. The slow cooking process allows the meat to become exceptionally tender, absorbing the essence of the spices, resulting in a luscious and mouthwatering broth. Nihari is traditionally served for breakfast, enjoyed with naan or paratha.
- Mutton Yakhni
This dish originated in Kashmir and showcases the rich culinary heritage of the region. This traditional delicacy is made by slow-cooking tender pieces of mutton in a flavourful broth infused with an array of aromatic spices. Fragrant spices like fennel seeds, cinnamon, cardamom, and bay leaves add depth and complexity to the Yakhni. Mutton Yakhni is often served with steamed rice or Kashmiri pulao.
- Rasam
Rasam is a traditional South Indian soup that holds a special place in the hearts and taste buds of millions. It is a flavorful and tangy broth made primarily with tamarind, tomatoes, and a distinctive blend of aromatic spices. A staple in many households, rasam is not just delicious but also boasts several health benefits. With its soothing, comforting nature, rasam is often served as an appetizer or part of a main course in South Indian meals. A warm bowl of rasam on a rainy day will make your day soulful.