Hasa Al-Khadr (Vegetable Soup)
From: windhorse

This is a simple and satisfying vegetarian vegetable soup from Iraq. I found the recipe on a website I belive is called sudairy.com, a collection of MIddle Eastern recipes. Everyone who ahs tried it has enjoyed it. I believe it is low in fat and calories, and it's simple to prepare. I did modify the original recipe slightly.

SERVES 8

• 2 tablespoons olive oil (use the extra virgin if possible)
• 2 carrots, peeled and diced about 1/4 inch
• 3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced about 1/2 inch
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 4 medium tomatoes, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, crushed
• 1 cup fresh cilantro, chopped fine
• 7 cups vegetable broth (or mixed broth and water half and half)
• 2 tablespoons grated fresh ginger (a MUST)
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin

Heat the oil in a 6 quart (or larger) saucepan on medium heat. Add carrots, onions, garlic and ginger. Stir-fry about 8 minutes.

Add potatoes, tomatoes and cilantro. Stir fry another 5 minutes.

Add remaining ingredients. Increase heat to high and bring to a boil. Lower heat to simmer. Cover and cook about 45 minutes or until vegetables are tender.