Yemenite High Holy Day Soup

Yemenite High Holy Day Soup Recipe - Traditional Middle Eastern Dish

Region / culture: Yemen | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 3 hours | Servings: 10-12

Introduction

Yemenite High Holy Day Soup is a traditional dish enjoyed during special occasions in Yemenite Jewish culture. This hearty and flavorful soup is made with a variety of vegetables, meats, and spices, creating a rich and satisfying meal.

History

This recipe has been passed down through generations in Yemenite Jewish families, often prepared for holidays and celebrations. The combination of ingredients reflects the cultural influences of Yemenite cuisine, known for its bold flavors and aromatic spices.

Ingredients

3 celery stalks, cut into 2-inch pieces
1 medium zucchini, peeled and cubed
3 carrots, cut into 3-inch pieces
1 large tomato, almost quartered but not cut apart at bottom
3 potatoes, peeled and diced, kept in cold water
3 lb (1.36 kg) beef shoulder, ribs, or stew meat (fat removed)
3 pieces (about 2 lb (907 g)) marrow bones
1 (3 lb (1.36 kg)) chicken, cleaned and quartered
Up to 5 qt (4.73 liter) water
10-12 cloves garlic, unpeeled
9 small white onions
1 large white turnip, quartered but unpeeled
4 leeks or 8 green onions, coarsely cut
1 small bunch fresh parsley or fresh coriander, woody stems trimmed away
salt to taste
1 tbsp hawayij (Yemenite spices), or to taste

How to prepare

Serve by dipping bread into the soup, scooping up the meat, vegetables, and/or the sauce.
Serves 10 to 12.

Variations

For a vegetarian version of this soup, omit the meat and bone marrow and add extra vegetables such as potatoes, sweet potatoes, and squash. You can also add chickpeas or lentils for added protein.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To enhance the flavors of the soup, consider roasting the vegetables before adding them to the broth. This will add a depth of flavor to the dish. Additionally, be sure to skim any impurities that rise to the surface of the soup while it simmers to ensure a clear and clean broth.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this soup with fresh pita bread or rice on the side for a complete meal. Garnish with fresh herbs such as parsley or cilantro for added flavor.

Cooking Techniques

The key to a flavorful Yemenite High Holy Day Soup is to simmer the ingredients slowly over low heat to allow the flavors to meld together. Be patient and allow the soup to cook for at least 2-3 hours for the best results.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you cannot find hawayij spice blend, you can substitute with a mixture of ground cumin, coriander, turmeric, and black pepper.

Make Ahead Tips

This soup can be made ahead of time and reheated before serving. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Presentation Ideas

Serve this soup in individual bowls garnished with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of fresh herbs for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair this soup with a crisp green salad or a side of roasted vegetables for a complete and balanced meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of this soup contains approximately 300 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Yemenite High Holy Day Soup contains approximately 15 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of this soup contains approximately 10 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Yemenite High Holy Day Soup contains approximately 25 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

This soup is rich in vitamins and minerals, particularly vitamin A, vitamin C, iron, and calcium.

Alergens

This recipe contains garlic and onions, which may be allergens for some individuals.

Summary

Yemenite High Holy Day Soup is a nutritious and satisfying dish that provides a balance of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, and essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Yemenite High Holy Day Soup is a delicious and comforting dish that is perfect for special occasions or any time you crave a hearty and flavorful meal. Enjoy this traditional recipe with your family and friends for a taste of Yemenite Jewish cuisine.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of finding this recipe for the first time brings a smile to my face. It was many years ago, during a trip to Israel, that I first tried Yemenite High Holy Day Soup. The rich flavors and aromatic spices captivated me from the first spoonful, and I knew I had to learn how to make it myself.

I remember sitting in a small, bustling cafe in Jerusalem, savoring each bite of the steaming bowl of soup. The broth was made with a blend of aromatic spices like cumin, coriander, turmeric, and cardamom, giving it a warm and comforting flavor. The chunks of tender beef and root vegetables added a hearty element to the dish, making it perfect for the chilly autumn days of the High Holy Days.

As I finished my meal, I asked the owner of the cafe for the recipe. He chuckled and told me that the soup was a traditional Yemenite dish, passed down through generations in his family. He kindly wrote down the ingredients and instructions for me on a napkin, and I tucked it safely away in my purse, knowing that I had stumbled upon a culinary treasure.

When I returned home, I couldn't wait to try my hand at making Yemenite High Holy Day Soup. I gathered the ingredients and set to work, following the instructions carefully and adding my own touch to the recipe. As the soup simmered on the stove, the aroma filled my kitchen, transporting me back to that cozy cafe in Jerusalem.

When the soup was finally ready, I ladled it into bowls and called my family to the table. The first spoonful brought a flood of memories from my trip, and I knew that I had successfully recreated the flavors of Israel in my own home.

Over the years, I have made Yemenite High Holy Day Soup many times, tweaking the recipe here and there to suit my taste. I have shared it with friends and family, who have all fallen in love with its warm and comforting flavors. Each time I make it, I am reminded of that fateful day in Jerusalem and the kindness of the cafe owner who shared his family recipe with me.

As I sit down to enjoy a bowl of Yemenite High Holy Day Soup, I am grateful for the many recipes and culinary traditions that have enriched my life. Cooking has always been a passion of mine, and each dish I make tells a story of where it came from and the memories associated with it.

I hope that one day, my grandchildren will inherit my love for cooking and continue to pass down the recipes that have brought joy and comfort to our family for generations. And who knows, perhaps one day they will find themselves in a small cafe in Jerusalem, falling in love with a dish that will become a treasured part of their culinary repertoire. The journey of discovering new recipes and flavors is never-ending, and I am grateful for every delicious moment along the way.