Delicious soup recipes for monsoon

The monsoon season increases the risk of infections such as colds and flu, making immune-boosting soups with ingredients like garlic, ginger, and turmeric beneficial for enhancing resistance to illness. Warm soups are gentle on the stomach, improve sluggish digestion, and provide comfort during cooler temperatures. They also help with hydration, especially in humid conditions, while offering essential nutrients without straining the digestive system. Furthermore, many soup ingredients possess anti-inflammatory properties, aiding in reducing inflammation and soothing common ailments experienced during the rainy season. Monsoon season heightens the risk of waterborne illnesses. Soups made with herbs and spices serve as natural detoxifiers, aiding in toxin removal and improving metabolism. They also offer psychological comfort during rainy days, boosting mood and well-being. Including soups in your diet during this season is a tasty and practical way to maintain health and energy. Here are 3 delicious soup recipes you should try this monsoon.

1. Sweet Corn and Spinach Soup- Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a pot and sauté 1 minced clove of garlic and 1 finely chopped onion until golden. Add 1 cup sweet corn kernels and cook for 2 minutes. Pour in 3 cups of vegetable stock and bring to a simmer, then add 1 cup finely chopped spinach and cook for another 5 minutes. Mix 1 tablespoon cornflour with 1 cup milk and stir it into the soup to thicken. Season with salt and pepper. Blend half the soup for a thicker texture and serve hot.
   Benefits- Sweet corn and spinach are excellent foods to maintain energy and health during the monsoon season. Sweet corn provides complex carbohydrates for sustained energy and contains B vitamins that support heart health. Spinach, high in iron and potassium, helps combat fatigue, boosts energy, and regulates blood pressure. A soup made with these ingredients is low in calories but rich in essential nutrients, making it a nutritious and comforting option that can enhance your mood during rainy days.
2. Lemon Coriander Soup- Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a pan and sauté 1 tablespoon chopped garlic, 1 tablespoon chopped ginger, and 2-3 slit green chilies until fragrant. Add 1 finely chopped onion and 1 finely chopped carrot, cooking for 3-4 minutes until soft. Pour in 4 cups of vegetable or chicken broth and bring to a boil. Add 1/2 cup finely chopped spinach and 1/2 cup chopped coriander, simmer for another 5 minutes. Season with juice of 1 lemon, salt, and pepper. Serve hot garnished with fresh coriander and a lemon wedge.
   Benefits- Coriander acts as a natural detoxifier, aiding in the elimination of toxins, which is particularly important during the monsoon when waterborne diseases are prevalent. It also has anti-inflammatory properties that soothe respiratory infections and alleviate cold, cough, and throat irritation symptoms common in this season. Lemon, with its alkaline effect, supports liver detoxification and helps cleanse the body. It is rich in antioxidants, alleviating throat soreness and reducing mucus buildup. Additionally, lemon’s citric acid boosts metabolism, helping burn calories, making this soup a suitable option for weight maintenance or loss. Coriander is low in calories but high in fiber, promoting a feeling of fullness without adding significant calories, thus supporting healthy weight management.
3. Pumpkin and Coconut Soup- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot and sauté 1 chopped onion and 2 minced clove of garlic until translucent. Add 500 gms pumpkin cubes, 1 teaspoon curry powder, and 1 teaspoon turmeric powder, sautéing for 5 minutes. Pour in 2 cups vegetable stock and bring to a boil, then simmer until the pumpkin is tender. Blend the soup until smooth, stir in 2 cups of coconut milk, and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Garnish with fresh herbs and serve hot.
   Benefits- Pumpkin and coconut soup offers a comforting meal ideal for chilly monsoon evenings. Pumpkin is high in vitamin A, which promotes healthy skin by aiding cell regeneration and protecting against skin infections common in humid conditions. Additionally, pumpkin is rich in potassium, which helps regulate blood pressure and supports heart health, especially during seasonal changes. Coconut milk provides moisturizing properties that nourish the skin and prevent dryness, while its healthy fats may improve cholesterol levels, further supporting heart health in the rainy season.

-Triparna