For a richer flavor, brown the lamb in the oil before adding the other ingredients. This will add depth to the broth. Adjust the amount of water to achieve your desired soup consistency. Some prefer a thicker, stew-like chorba, while others enjoy a thinner, more brothy soup. Feel free to add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a touch of heat. Serve hot, accompanied by crusty bread for dipping.
Chorba Hamra bel Frik (Algerian Lamb, Tomato, and Freekeh Soup)
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PREP TIME35 mins
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COOK TIME50 mins
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TOTAL TIME1 hrs 25 mins
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SERVING8 People
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VIEWS15
Aromatic and deeply satisfying, this Algerian Lamb, Tomato, and Freekeh Soup, or Chorba Hamra bel Frik, is a culinary journey to North Africa. Fragrant spices meld with tender lamb and hearty freekeh in a tomato-rich broth, creating a symphony of flavors perfect for a comforting meal.
Ingridients
Adjust Servings
Nutrition
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Carbohydrate34 g
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Cholesterol24 mg
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Fiber7 g
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Protein13 g
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Saturated Fat3 g
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Sodium148 mg
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Sugar3 g
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Fat11 g
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Unsaturated Fat0 g
Follow The Directions
01
Step
5 mins
Prepare the Freekeh: Place freekeh in a small bowl and cover with cold water. Set aside to soak. (5 minutes)
02
Step
15 mins
Sauté the Aromatics and Lamb: Combine lamb, onion, black pepper, paprika, cinnamon, and salt in a large pot. Stir in oil, half of the cilantro, half of the mint, and the celery stalk until well combined. Simmer over low heat, allowing the flavors to meld. (15 minutes)
03
Step
5 mins
Build the Broth: Stir in the drained chickpeas. Pour in just enough water to cover the ingredients, and bring the mixture to a simmer. Add the diced zucchini, carrot, and tomato paste, stirring to incorporate. (5 minutes)
04
Step
5 mins
Steam the Tomatoes: Set a steamer basket over the pot; add the whole tomatoes to the basket. Cover and steam the tomatoes until they are softened. (5 minutes)
05
Step
2 mins
Infuse the Soup: Crush the softened tomatoes using a wooden spoon, allowing the pulp to drip into the soup below. Remove the steamer and discard the tomato peels. (2 minutes)
06
Step
10 mins
Add Potatoes and Simmer: Add the diced potato to the soup, adding just enough additional water to cover all ingredients. Simmer gently until the potato is tender. (10 minutes)
07
Step
15 mins
Incorporate the Freekeh: Drain the soaked freekeh and add it to the soup. Continue to simmer until the freekeh is soft and has absorbed the flavors of the broth. (15 minutes)
08
StepFinal Touches: Remove the celery stalk and discard. Before serving, sprinkle the soup with the remaining cilantro and mint for a burst of freshness.
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Kristoffer Kirlin
Jun 29, 2025My family loved this soup! Even my picky eaters asked for seconds.
Tyrique Bednar
Jun 29, 2025Absolutely delicious! The spices are perfectly balanced, and the lamb was so tender.
Stephen Witting
Jun 22, 2025I made this for a Ramadan dinner, and it was a huge hit!
Doyle Moore
Jun 17, 2025The freekeh adds a wonderful nutty flavor and texture to the soup.
Maci Koelpin
May 31, 2025Next time, I'll try adding some roasted red peppers for extra sweetness.
Alysa Schumm
May 27, 2025This is my new go-to soup recipe. It's easy to make and full of flavor.
Alba Robel
May 27, 2025I used beef instead of lamb, and it turned out great.
Vicky Emard
May 15, 2025I added a pinch of cayenne pepper for a little extra heat, and it was amazing!