Algerian Frik Soup with Lamb and Vegetables

Ingredients

• 500g (1.1 lb) lamb meat, cubed 500g (1.1 lb) lamb meat, cubed
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 carrots, diced 2 carrots, diced
• 2 potatoes, peeled and cubed 2 potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 2 tomatoes, diced 2 tomatoes, diced
• 1/2 cup frik (cracked wheat) 1/2 cup frik (cracked wheat)
• 4 cups (950ml) vegetable or chicken broth 4 cups (950ml) vegetable or chicken broth
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon turmeric 1/4 teaspoon turmeric
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 350 kcal / 1465 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 12g, 4g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 30g, 6g
• Protein: 30g
• Fiber: 6g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large pot, heat some oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until they turn golden brown.
2. 2.
   Add the cubed lamb meat to the pot and cook until browned on all sides.
3. 3.
   Stir in the ground cumin, ground coriander, paprika, and turmeric, coating the meat evenly with the spices.
4. 4.
   Add the diced tomatoes, carrots, and potatoes to the pot, stirring well to combine.
5. 5.
   Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil.
6. 6.
   Reduce the heat to low and simmer for about 1 hour, or until the lamb is tender.
7. 7.
   Rinse the frik under cold water and add it to the pot. Cook for an additional 15 minutes, allowing the frik to absorb the flavors of the soup.
8. 8.
   Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. 9.
   Serve the Chorba frik hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Frik — Rinse the frik thoroughly under cold water before adding it to the soup to remove any impurities and excess starch.

Tips & Tricks

• For a richer flavor, you can use lamb bones or lamb stock in addition to the meat.
• Adjust the spices according to your preference for a milder or spicier taste.
• Serve the Chorba frik with a squeeze of lemon juice for a tangy twist.
• This soup tastes even better the next day, allowing the flavors to meld together.
• Feel free to add other vegetables such as zucchini or bell peppers for variation.

Serving advice

Serve the Chorba frik as a main course accompanied by crusty bread or traditional Algerian flatbread. It can also be enjoyed as a starter or a comforting meal on its own.

Presentation advice

Garnish each bowl of Chorba frik with a sprinkle of fresh parsley to add a pop of color. Serve it in traditional Algerian ceramic bowls or rustic soup bowls for an authentic touch.