Authentic Algerian Chorba Soup Recipe

Ingredients

  • 500 grams of lamb
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 2 large carrots, diced
  • 2 medium potatoes, cubed
  • 1 can of chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can of chopped tomatoes
  • 1 tablespoon of tomato paste
  • 2 teaspoons of paprika
  • 1 teaspoon of ground coriander
  • 1 teaspoon of ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon of turmeric
  • 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1.5 liters of water
  • 1 bunch of fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 bunch of fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 1/2 cup of vermicelli noodles
  • 1 lemon, cut into wedges for serving

Steps and instructions

  1. In a large pot, heat some olive oil over medium heat. Add the lamb and cook until browned on all sides. Remove the meat and set it aside.
  2. In the same pot, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook until the onions are softened.
  3. Add the diced carrots and cubed potatoes to the pot and cook for a few minutes until the vegetables start to soften.
  4. Add the chickpeas, chopped tomatoes, tomato paste, paprika, coriander, cumin, turmeric, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
  5. Add the browned lamb back into the pot. Pour in the water and bring the soup to a boil.
  6. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let the soup simmer for about 1 hour, or until the lamb is tender.
  7. About 10 minutes before the soup is done, add the chopped parsley, cilantro, and vermicelli noodles. Stir well and continue to cook until the noodles are done.
  8. Serve the Chorba hot with a wedge of lemon on the side.

Tools for making

Recipe variations

  • Vegetarian Option: Replace the lamb with additional vegetables such as mushrooms, bell peppers, and zucchini.
  • Chicken Chorba: Substitute the lamb with boneless chicken pieces.
  • Beef Chorba: Replace the lamb with beef chunks.
  • Spicy Variation: Increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add a chopped chili pepper for an extra kick.
  • Herb Infused: Experiment with different herbs such as mint, dill, or thyme to add unique flavors.
  • Seafood Twist: Add cooked shrimp or fish fillets to the soup for a seafood version of Chorba.
  • Creamy Chorba: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or yogurt before serving for a creamy texture.
  • Extra Vegetables: Include additional vegetables like peas, corn, or green beans for added color and flavor.
  • Spaghetti Chorba: Substitute the vermicelli noodles with broken spaghetti pieces.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free noodles or rice instead of vermicelli noodles.

Recipe overview

Experience a taste of the Middle East with this flavorful and hearty Chorba recipe. Chorba is a traditional soup that is popular in many countries across the region. This particular recipe features lamb, chickpeas, and a variety of vegetables, all simmered together in a spiced broth. The addition of vermicelli noodles adds an extra touch of comfort and satiety.

Preparing Chorba is a straightforward process, but it does require some time to allow all the flavors to meld together. This recipe guides you through each step, from browning the lamb to simmering everything until tender. The resulting soup is a warm, comforting dish that's perfect for a chilly day or when you're in the mood for something nourishing and delicious.

We're also adding a fresh element to the soup with the addition of parsley and cilantro, and serving it with a wedge of lemon for that tangy accent. Every spoonful is a delightful blend of flavors and textures, making it a meal that's worth the effort. Enjoy your cooking!

Common questions

  1. Can I use a different type of meat instead of lamb? Yes, you can use beef or chicken instead of lamb if you prefer.
  2. Can I substitute fresh tomatoes for canned tomatoes? Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes. Use about 2-3 large tomatoes, peeled and chopped, as a substitute for canned tomatoes.
  3. Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh herbs? Yes, you can use dried parsley and cilantro if you don't have fresh herbs. Use about 1 tablespoon of dried herbs as a substitute for the fresh herbs.
  4. Can I make this recipe vegetarian or vegan? Yes, you can omit the lamb and use vegetable broth instead of water to make it vegetarian. To make it vegan, ensure that the tomato paste and vermicelli noodles you use are also vegan-friendly.
  5. How spicy is this soup? The level of spiciness can be adjusted to taste. The cayenne pepper adds a mild kick, but you can increase or decrease the amount according to your preference.
  6. Can I freeze the leftovers? Yes, you can freeze the Chorba. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Large pot - Needed for cooking the soup.
  • Knife - Used for chopping the vegetables and meat.
  • Cutting board - Provides a surface for safe and easy vegetable and meat chopping.
  • Wooden spoon - Useful for stirring the soup while it simmers.
  • Soup ladle - Helps in serving the hot Chorba into bowls.
  • Soup bowls - Used for serving the Chorba to enjoy.
  • Lemon wedger - A tool specifically designed to cut lemons into wedges for serving.

Origin stories

Chorba, a dish as rich in flavors as it is in history, transcends the boundaries of time and geography. This hearty soup, humble in its origins, has found a place in the culinary traditions of numerous countries, each rendering their own unique twist to the classic recipe. It is believed to have originated from the Maghreb region in North Africa, where its warming qualities were a godsend against the chilly desert nights. This treasure of a dish embarked on a journey along the trade routes and established itself in the Eastern Mediterranean, Balkans, Central Asia, and even far-flung India, earning the love and appreciation of diverse cultures. Each bowl of Chorba carries with it a tale of shared heritage and culinary exploration, a testament to the universality of good food.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.