As the monsoon season is fully here, our taste buds yearn for warm and comforting meals that not only satiate our hunger but also help us maintain a healthy lifestyle. Soups, known for their versatility and nourishing qualities, become our go-to option during this time. And what's even better is that certain soups can assist in our weight loss journey by helping us shed those extra pounds and reduce body fat. So, if you want to enjoy monsoon with a bowl of warm, healthy soup, we have 5 options for you.
Corn and Spinach Soup
Recipe - FOOD COUTURE by Chetna Patel
This delightful soup combines the sweetness of corn with the earthiness of spinach, creating a super yummy healthy option. To prepare this soup, sauté finely chopped onions and garlic in ghee. Add corn kernels, spinach leaves, vegetable broth, salt, and pepper. Simmer until the vegetables are tender. Finally, blend the mixture to achieve a creamy consistency. This soup is rich in fibre, vitamins, and minerals, making it a great choice for weight loss and overall well-being.
Lentil Soup (Dal Soup)
Dal soup is a classic dish that is hearty and packed with protein. It is incredibly versatile and can be made with different lentils such as masoor dal, moong dal, or toor dal. To make this soup, pressure cook the lentils with spices like turmeric, cumin, and coriander. Once cooked, blend the lentils partially to achieve a thick and creamy consistency. Season with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon juice. This protein-rich soup not only aids in weight loss but also provides essential nutrients and keeps you full for longer. So, this can be your next warm lunch option.
Hot and Sour Tomato Soup
Recipe - MasterChef Pankaj Bhadouria
Tomato soup is a popular choice during the monsoon season. It is simple to prepare and is perfect for the rainy nights. Start by sautéing onions and garlic in a little oil. Add chopped tomatoes, vegetable broth, salt, pepper, and herbs like basil or oregano. Simmer until the tomatoes are soft and cooked. Blend the mixture until smooth, and you have a velvety tomato soup ready to be enjoyed. Tomatoes are low in calories and high in antioxidants, making this soup a healthy option for weight management. Of course, this comes with a disclaimer that tomatoes are too expensive to afford this monsoon and the soup can be a once in a while treat!
Mixed Vegetable Soup
As the name suggests, this soup is a medley of various vegetables, making it a nutrient-dense and filling option. Begin by sautéing onions, garlic, and ginger in a little oil. Add a variety of diced vegetables like carrots, beans, bell peppers, and cauliflower. Pour vegetable broth and season with salt, pepper, and spices of your choice. Simmer until the vegetables are tender. You can partially blend the soup for a chunky texture or blend it completely for a smoother consistency. This soup is rich in fibre, vitamins, and minerals, aiding in weight loss and providing a wide range of nutrients.