Authentic Recipe for Tharakpa - The Tibetan Barley Soup

Ingredients

1 cup of dried soybeans
4 cups of water
2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
1 large onion, finely chopped
4 cloves of garlic, minced
1 tablespoon of ginger, minced
1 medium-sized tomato, chopped
2 green chili peppers, chopped
1 teaspoon of turmeric powder
1 teaspoon of red chili powder
Salt, as per taste
Handful of fresh coriander leaves, chopped for garnish

Steps and instructions

Soak the dried soybeans in water overnight or for at least 8 hours.
After soaking, drain the water and rinse the soybeans. Set them aside.
In a pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat.
Add the finely chopped onion to the pan and sauté until it turns golden brown.
Next, add the minced garlic and ginger to the pan. Sauté for a minute until they release their aroma.
Add the chopped tomato and green chili peppers to the pan. Stir well until the tomatoes become soft.
Add the turmeric powder, red chili powder, and salt to the pan. Stir well to mix the spices.
Now, add the soaked and rinsed soybeans to the pan. Stir well to mix with the spices.
Cover the pan and let it cook on low heat for about 20 minutes or until the soybeans are tender.
Once the soybeans are cooked, garnish with the chopped coriander leaves.
Serve the Tharakpa hot with rice or bread.

Tools for making

Large pot - To cook the soybeans and prepare the Tharakpa.
Pan - To sauté the onion, garlic, ginger, and tomatoes.
Stove - To provide heat for cooking the ingredients.
Knife - To chop the onion, garlic, ginger, tomatoes, green chili peppers, and coriander leaves.
Cutting board - To provide a surface for chopping the ingredients.
Measuring cup - To measure the dried soybeans and water accurately.
Measuring spoons - To measure the vegetable oil, turmeric powder, red chili powder, and salt precisely.
Spoon or spatula - To stir and mix the ingredients while cooking.
Lid - To cover the pan while cooking the Tharakpa.

Recipe variations

Use chickpeas instead of soybeans for a different flavor.
Add vegetables like carrots, peas, or bell peppers for added texture and color.
Replace the vegetable oil with ghee for a richer taste.
Experiment with different spices like cumin, coriander, or garam masala to customize the flavor profile.
Add a splash of coconut milk for a creamy twist.
For a non-vegetarian option, add cooked chicken or lamb to the dish.
Make it spicier by increasing the amount of red chili powder or adding hot sauce.
Serve with naan bread or roti instead of rice.
Top with a dollop of yogurt or sour cream for added creaminess.
Garnish with roasted peanuts or cashews for a crunchy element.

Recipe overview

Tharakpa is a delicious and nutritious dish originating from the Manipur region of India. Known for its rich flavors and wholesome ingredients, this soybean-based recipe offers a delightful combination of spice, heat, and texture. The dish is characterized by the use of traditional Indian spices that lend an aromatic edge and profound flavor. The process of making Tharakpa is straightforward and involves simmering soaked soybeans in a blend of spices until tender. The result is a warming, hearty dish that can be enjoyed with rice or bread. In addition to being exceptionally tasty, Tharakpa is also packed with protein, making it a great choice for a healthy, satisfying meal.

Common questions

Can I use canned soybeans instead of dried? Yes, you can use canned soybeans as a substitute for dried soybeans. However, adjust the cooking time accordingly as canned soybeans are already cooked.
Can I use other types of beans instead of soybeans? While traditionally Tharakpa is made with soybeans, you can experiment with other types of beans like black beans or kidney beans. Just keep in mind that the cooking time may vary depending on the type of bean you choose.
Can I add other vegetables to the Tharakpa? Yes, you can add vegetables like carrots, peas, or bell peppers to enhance the flavor and nutritional value of the dish. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure the vegetables are cooked through.
What can I serve with Tharakpa? Tharakpa is commonly served with rice or bread. You can serve it with steamed rice, naan bread, or even crusty bread for a delicious and satisfying meal.
How spicy is Tharakpa? Tharakpa can be as spicy as you prefer. You can adjust the amount of green chili peppers and red chili powder according to your spice tolerance. Start with a small amount and increase if desired.

Serving dishes and utensils

Mixing Bowl - A large bowl for mixing the ingredients.
Pan - A cooking pan for sautéing the onion, garlic, ginger, and spices.
Spoon - A utensil for stirring and mixing the ingredients in the pan.
Knife - A sharp knife for chopping the onion, tomato, and coriander leaves.
Cutting Board - A sturdy surface for chopping the ingredients.
Measuring Cup - A cup for accurately measuring the soybeans and water.
Strainer - A strainer to drain the soaked soybeans after soaking.
Tongs - Tongs for serving the Tharakpa.
Garnish Bowl - A small bowl for keeping the chopped coriander leaves for garnishing.

Origin stories

Tharakpa is a traditional dish from the northeastern region of India, specifically from the state of Manipur. This delectable dish is made from soybeans, which are a staple food in the region due to their high protein content and versatility in various culinary uses. Interestingly, soybeans have been cultivated in Manipur for centuries, and the ancient practice of making Tharakpa has been passed down through generations. It's often enjoyed during community gatherings, highlighting the cultural importance of sharing meals in Manipur society. The dish's simplicity, coupled with its rich flavors, truly represents the essence of Manipuri cuisine – wholesome, nutritious, and deeply rooted in tradition.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.