Kusksu Maltese soup| Famous food in Malta|

barley

🥗Healthier: quinoa

💰Cheaper: rice

Quinoa offers a similar texture and is high in protein.

vegetable broth

🥗Healthier: homemade broth

💰Cheaper: water

Homemade broth enhances flavor without added cost.

chickpeas

🥗Healthier: lentils

💰Cheaper: canned beans

Canned beans are often less expensive and still provide protein.

olive oil

🥗Healthier: avocado oil

💰Cheaper: canola oil

Canola oil is a cost-effective alternative for sautéing.

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat until shimmering.

Add chopped onions, carrots, and celery; sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.

Stir in minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.

Add diced tomatoes and cook for another 3-4 minutes until they break down.

Pour in vegetable broth and bring to a boil.

Add diced potatoes and barley; reduce heat and simmer until barley is tender, about 30 minutes.

Stir in chopped zucchini and cook for an additional 10 minutes.

Add cooked pasta and chickpeas; heat through for 5 minutes.

Add peas, broad beans, and giant couscous; cook for an additional 5 minutes.

Season with salt, black pepper, and fresh herbs to taste.

Serve hot, garnished with additional parsley.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Dietary

Allergens