Quirky Foodster

Soups

Chorba Hamra (Red Tomato and Lamb Soup) (ءارمح ةبرش)

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ (0)
15 minutes
Prep
45 minutes
Cook
4
Servings

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Ingredients

  • - Lamb shoulder, cubed — 350g (12 oz)
  • - Onion, chopped — 150g (1 medium)
  • - Tomato paste — 50g (3 tbsp)
  • - Ground cumin — 3g (1/2 tsp)
  • - Ground cinnamon — 1g (1/4 tsp)
  • - Vermicelli noodles, broken — 60g (2 oz)
  • - Vegetable oil — 30ml (2 tbsp)
  • - Water — 1.4L (6 cups)
  • - Fresh coriander, chopped — 10g (2 tbsp)
  • - Salt — 8g (1 1/2 tsp)

Method

  1. Heat oil in a large pot and brown the lamb with the onion.
  2. Stir in tomato paste, cumin and cinnamon; cook for 1-2 minutes.
  3. Add water and salt, bring to a boil, then simmer covered for 35-40 minutes until the lamb is tender.
  4. Add the vermicelli and simmer for a further 6-8 minutes until tender.
  5. Stir in fresh coriander just before serving.

Introduction: A rich, deep red tomato soup with tender lamb, vermicelli and a warm blend of spices, another Ramadan table staple.

Cultural Background: Chorba Hamra (‘red soup’) is named for its deep tomato colour, and alongside Chorba Frik forms the backbone of many Algerian iftar meals during Ramadan.

Tips: Cook the tomato paste briefly before adding liquid to deepen its flavour. Add the vermicelli only near the end so it doesn’t overcook and turn mushy.

Variations: Add a handful of cooked chickpeas for extra heartiness. Finish with a squeeze of lemon for brightness.

Vegetarian/Vegan: No authentic vegetarian version exists for this lamb-based soup.

Serving Suggestions: Serve hot with dates and fresh bread, in the classic Ramadan iftar tradition.

Storage: Refrigerate for up to 3 days.

Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop with a splash of water to loosen, stirring occasionally.

Nutrition: 310 kcal | Protein 20g | Carbs 26g | Fat 13g

FAQs:

Q: What’s the difference between Chorba Hamra and Chorba Frik? A: Chorba Hamra is thickened with vermicelli and has a deeper tomato flavour, while Chorba Frik is thickened with cracked wheat and has a smokier character. Q: Can I use chicken instead of lamb? A: Yes, chicken works well and reduces the cooking time by about 15 minutes.
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