Shorba

Authentic Algerian Shorba Recipe with Chicken, Vegetables and Spices

Region / culture: Algeria | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 55 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Shorba is a traditional Middle Eastern soup that is known for its rich and flavorful broth. This hearty soup is often made with a combination of meat, vegetables, and spices, making it a comforting and satisfying dish.

History

Shorba has been a staple in Middle Eastern cuisine for centuries, with variations of the soup being enjoyed in countries such as Turkey, Lebanon, and Iran. The word "shorba" itself is derived from the Arabic word for soup, highlighting the importance of this dish in the region's culinary traditions.

Ingredients

1.5 lb (680 g) chicken, cubed
1 yellow onion, grated
0.5 zucchini, grated
0.5 small potato, grated
0.5 rib celery with libs, halved
1 carrot, halved
0.25 cup dried chickpeas, soaked overnight in water and drained or canned chickpeas
2 tsp salt
0.5 tsp black pepper
0.5 tsp cinnamon
1 tbsp paprika
2 tbsp tomato paste
1 tbsp olive oil
8 cups of water
0.5 cup orzo or another soup pasta
1 tbsp chopped parsley
1 tsp chopped fresh mint leaves
lemon slices

How to prepare

Place meat, onion, zucchini, potato, celery, carrot, salt, pepper, cinnamon, paprika, tomato paste, oil, and chickpeas (if using dried) in a large pot.
Cover the pot and sauté over low heat for 20 minutes.
Pour the remaining water into the pot, bring it to a boil, and let it simmer for 45 minutes.
Add pasta and chickpeas (if using canned).
Cook for an additional 10 minutes.
Stir in parsley and mint.
Serve with lemon slices.

Variations

For a vegetarian version of shorba, you can omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead. You can also add additional vegetables such as bell peppers, eggplant, or spinach for a different flavor profile.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To enhance the flavor of your shorba, consider toasting the spices before adding them to the pot. This will help release their essential oils and deepen their aroma. Additionally, using a combination of fresh herbs like parsley and mint will add a refreshing and aromatic touch to the soup.

Serving Suggestions

Serve shorba with warm pita bread or a side salad for a complete and satisfying meal. You can also garnish the soup with a dollop of yogurt or a sprinkle of sumac for an extra burst of flavor.

Cooking Techniques

The key to making a delicious shorba is to simmer the soup slowly over low heat to allow the flavors to meld together. This will help create a rich and flavorful broth that is perfect for dipping bread or pita into.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have all the ingredients on hand, you can substitute the chicken with lamb or beef. You can also use canned chickpeas instead of dried ones for a quicker cooking time.

Make Ahead Tips

Shorba can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat the soup on the stove or in the microwave before serving.

Presentation Ideas

To make your shorba look more appetizing, consider garnishing it with a drizzle of olive oil, a sprinkle of fresh herbs, or a squeeze of lemon juice. You can also serve the soup in individual bowls with a side of warm bread for dipping.

Pairing Recommendations

Shorba pairs well with a variety of side dishes, including hummus, tabbouleh, or grilled vegetables. You can also serve the soup alongside a main course such as kebabs or roasted chicken for a complete and satisfying meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover shorba in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply transfer the soup to a pot and warm it over low heat until heated through. You may need to add a splash of water to thin out the broth if it has thickened.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of shorba contains approximately 300 calories, making it a satisfying and nourishing meal option.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of shorba contains approximately 20 grams of carbohydrates, making it a satisfying and energy-boosting meal option.

Fats

With only 5 grams of fat per serving, shorba is a relatively low-fat dish that can be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet.

Proteins

Shorba is a good source of protein, with each serving containing around 25 grams of this essential nutrient. Protein is important for muscle growth and repair, making shorba a nutritious and filling meal choice.

Vitamins and minerals

Shorba is rich in essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A, vitamin C, and potassium. These nutrients are important for maintaining overall health and well-being.

Alergens

Shorba may contain allergens such as gluten (from the soup pasta) and soy (from the tomato paste). It is important to check the ingredients and adapt the recipe to suit any dietary restrictions.

Summary

Overall, shorba is a nutritious and flavorful soup that provides a good balance of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals. It is a hearty and satisfying dish that can be enjoyed as part of a healthy diet.

Summary

Shorba is a delicious and nutritious soup that is perfect for warming up on a cold day. With its rich and flavorful broth, tender meat, and hearty vegetables, this Middle Eastern dish is sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy a bowl of shorba with your favorite side dishes for a satisfying and comforting meal.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of discovering this recipe is still vivid in my mind, like it was just yesterday. It all started when I was a young girl, eager to learn the art of cooking from my mother. We lived in a small village in India, where food was not just a means of sustenance, but a way of life.

One day, my mother announced that she was going to teach me how to make Shorba, a traditional Indian soup that is loved by all. I watched in awe as she gathered the ingredients - onions, tomatoes, garlic, ginger, spices, and of course, the star of the show, lamb meat.

As she began to cook, the kitchen filled with the intoxicating aroma of the spices sizzling in the hot oil. I stood by her side, eagerly soaking in every step of the process. She explained to me the importance of patience and precision in cooking, how each ingredient must be added at the right time and in the right quantity to achieve the perfect balance of flavors.

I watched as she stirred the pot, the rich red color of the soup slowly developing as the meat and vegetables cooked together. The smell was irresistible, making my mouth water in anticipation of tasting the final product.

After what seemed like hours, the Shorba was finally ready. We sat down at the table, a steaming bowl of soup in front of each of us. I took my first spoonful, and my taste buds exploded with the complex flavors of the spices, the tender meat, and the tangy tomatoes.

From that moment on, I was hooked. I begged my mother to teach me more recipes, to share her culinary wisdom with me. And she did, patiently guiding me through the intricacies of Indian cooking, passing down the recipes that had been handed down through generations.

But it was the Shorba that always held a special place in my heart. Whenever I made it, the memories of that day in the kitchen with my mother flooded back, filling me with a sense of warmth and nostalgia.

Over the years, I have made the Shorba countless times, experimenting with different spices and ingredients to make it my own. Each time I cook it, I feel connected to my roots, to the traditions and flavors that have shaped me into the cook I am today.

And now, as I pass on this recipe to you, my dear grandchild, I hope that you will treasure it as much as I have. May it bring you as much joy and satisfaction as it has brought me, and may you always remember the love and dedication that goes into every bowl of Shorba.

So go ahead, get into the kitchen, gather your ingredients, and let the magic of this timeless recipe transport you to a world of flavors and memories. And remember, cooking is not just about following a recipe, but about embracing the history and culture behind each dish. Happy cooking, my dear. Enjoy every spoonful of this delicious Shorba, and may it always remind you of the love that goes into every meal.