Ashom Thang

Inspired by a recent visit to my favorite New York restaurant (Cafe Himalaya, review coming soon!)I decided to make myself a traditional Tibetan corn soup, known as Ashom Thang. I found this recipe on asairecipe.com, an awesome resource for hard to find Asian entrees,soups,and desserts.
Here it goes!
* 1/2 onion, chopped
* 1 tablespoon butter (or use oil if preferred)
* 1/4 teaspoon paprika
* 1 clove garlic, finely chopped
* 1/2 inch fresh ginger, finely chopped
* 1 tomato, chopped
* 1 square (12 oz.) firm tofu
* 3 cobs fresh corn and 1 tablespoon cornstarch, or one 15-oz. can creamed corn and 1/2 cup frozen (or canned) whole kernel corn, drained
* 4 cups water
* 1 green onion, chopped
Directions
Sauté the onion in butter or oil in a soup pot until brown and soft.Add the paprika, garlic, and ginger and cook briefly.Add the tomato and the tofu, cut into small cubes, along with the water.If using fresh corn, cut it from the cob and add it to the pot, along with the cornstarch mixed in a little extra water. If using canned and/or frozen corn, add them both now.Bring to a boil, and simmer for a minute, stirring to prevent sticking.Sprinkle chopped green onion on each serving

I made a few alterations when I made it by pureeing the finished soup, substituting the green onion for cilantro, and adding a light amount of lemon juice right before eating. I find that this makes the soup more refreshing and less earthy, but it really is just a matter of personal preference. The soup turned out really well,even though it was slightly sweeter than I expected. The paprika and lemon perfectly complimented the corn flavor, making for a soup that was refreshing yet filling at the same time. The soup was great, but I don't think I'll make it again for myself at home. It didn't reheat well, and it was a little too expensive to just cook for one meal, and one person. If I'm ever cooking dinner for a soup lover though, I'll definitely bring this recipe back out.
Total Price: $6
Grade: B- (pricey,lengthy cooking time)