Shorbat Bazeela

Shorbat Bazeela Recipe: A Hearty Vegetarian Soup from Saudi Arabia

Region / culture: Saudi Arabia | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 50 minutes | Servings: 6 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Shorbat Bazeela is a traditional Middle Eastern lentil soup that is hearty, flavorful, and perfect for a cold day. This soup is packed with protein and fiber, making it a nutritious and satisfying meal.

History

Shorbat Bazeela has been a staple in Middle Eastern cuisine for centuries. It is a simple yet delicious soup that is often served as a starter or main course. The lentils in this soup provide a rich source of protein, while the vegetables add a depth of flavor.

Ingredients

6 cups of water
1.25 cups of dried lentils
1 finely chopped onion
4 minced garlic cloves
2 potatoes, cut into small pieces
1 finely chopped celery stalk
2 zucchini, cut into small pieces
1 tsp of cumin
salt to taste
freshly-ground black pepper to taste
2 lemons, cut into wedges

How to prepare

In a large saucepan, place the lentils, onion, and garlic. Cover them with water.
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer, covered, for 20 minutes.
Add the potatoes and celery to the saucepan. Cook them, covered, for 15 minutes.
Next, add the zucchini and cumin to the saucepan. Cook it uncovered for another 15 minutes, until the lentils and potatoes are tender.
Season the mixture with salt and pepper according to taste.
When you are ready to serve, ladle the soup into bowls. Sprinkle each bowl with lemon juice and serve a lemon wedge with each portion.

Variations

Add diced tomatoes for a tangy twist.
Stir in a spoonful of yogurt for a creamy finish.
Garnish with fresh herbs such as parsley or cilantro for added flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to rinse the lentils thoroughly before cooking to remove any dirt or debris.

- For a creamier texture, you can blend a portion of the soup before serving.

- Adjust the seasoning to your taste preferences by adding more or less salt and pepper.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Shorbat Bazeela with a side of warm pita bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to simmer the soup on low heat to allow the flavors to meld together.

- Stir the soup occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use red lentils instead of brown lentils for a slightly different texture.

- Substitute sweet potatoes for regular potatoes for a sweeter flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

Shorbat Bazeela can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish each bowl of Shorbat Bazeela with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of paprika for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Serve Shorbat Bazeela with a side of rice pilaf or grilled vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover Shorbat Bazeela in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Shorbat Bazeela contains approximately 200 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Shorbat Bazeela contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Shorbat Bazeela contains approximately 2 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Shorbat Bazeela contains approximately 10 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Shorbat Bazeela is rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, iron, and potassium.

Alergens

This recipe is gluten-free and vegan-friendly. However, if you have any allergies to lentils or other ingredients, be sure to check the labels before consuming.

Summary

Shorbat Bazeela is a nutritious and balanced meal that is low in fats and calories, making it a healthy option for any diet.

Summary

Shorbat Bazeela is a delicious and nutritious Middle Eastern lentil soup that is perfect for a comforting meal. Packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins, this soup is a healthy option for any diet. Serve with a side of pita bread or a fresh salad for a complete and satisfying meal.

How did I get this recipe?

I can still remember the exact moment I stumbled upon this recipe. It was a warm summer day, the sun shining brightly through the windows of my kitchen as I flipped through the pages of an old cookbook that had been passed down to me from my own grandmother. As I turned the pages, a faded piece of paper fell out and fluttered to the floor. Curious, I bent down to pick it up and saw that it was a handwritten recipe for Shorbat Bazeela.

I had never heard of Shorbat Bazeela before, but the ingredients listed on the paper intrigued me - fava beans, garlic, onions, and a blend of Middle Eastern spices. It sounded delicious, and I knew I had to give it a try.

I remembered my grandmother telling me stories of her travels through the Middle East, where she had learned to cook traditional dishes from the locals. Could this recipe have been one of the many treasures she had collected along her journey?

Excited, I set to work gathering the ingredients and following the instructions on the worn piece of paper. As the fragrant aroma of garlic and spices filled my kitchen, I felt a sense of connection to my grandmother and the generations of women before me who had lovingly prepared meals for their families.

After simmering the soup for what seemed like hours, I finally ladled out a steaming bowl of Shorbat Bazeela and took a tentative sip. The flavors exploded on my tongue - earthy fava beans, pungent garlic, and a hint of warmth from the spices. It was like nothing I had ever tasted before, and I knew I had discovered a new favorite recipe.

Over the years, I have made Shorbat Bazeela countless times, each batch as delicious as the last. I have shared the recipe with friends and family, passing on the tradition of this exotic dish to the next generation.

As I sit here now, reflecting on the journey that led me to this wonderful recipe, I am filled with gratitude for the women who came before me - my grandmother, and all the grandmothers who passed down their knowledge and love through the art of cooking.

I can only hope that one day, my own grandchildren will stumble upon this recipe in an old cookbook, and feel the same sense of connection and joy that I did when I first discovered the magic of Shorbat Bazeela. Until then, I will continue to cook this dish with love and gratitude, honoring the traditions of my ancestors and sharing the flavors of the world with those I hold dear.