The chorba

If you’re looking for a flavorful, comforting, and easy-to-prepare dish, Chorba soup is perfect for you. It is an Algerian specialty made with vegetables, meat, and vermicelli, enjoyed both in winter and summer, and especially during the sacred month of Ramadan.

Chorba soup is a halal dish that adheres to the principles of the Muslim religion. It is also very versatile as it can be prepared with different types of meat (lamb, mutton, beef, chicken…) and vegetables (carrot, zucchini, turnip, celery…).

In this article, we will present the origin of Chorba soup, its recipe and ingredients, as well as some tips to ensure your success in making it. Finally, we invite you to come and taste this delicious soup at Quantum Isoraka, a restaurant that combines tradition and modernity in Antananarivo, Madagascar.

Origin of Chorba Soup

The word “chorba” comes from the Arabic word “shorba,” which means “broth.” Chorba soup is therefore a soup made with meat and vegetable broth, consumed hot or warm. It originated in the Maghreb region, where it is very popular in Algeria, Morocco, and Tunisia.

Chorba Soup is one of the traditional dishes of Ramadan

Chorba soup is one of the traditional dishes of Ramadan in many Muslim countries. It is an essential dish during Ramadan as it allows for a gentle break of the fast and rehydration after a long day without food or drink. It consists of vegetables, meat, vermicelli or pasta, and spices. It is served at iftar, the meal that breaks the fast at sunset. Chorba soup helps rehydrate the body and provide essential nutrients after a long day of abstinence. It is also a symbol of sharing and conviviality as it is enjoyed with family or friends. Chorba soup is also appreciated for its nutritional and digestive virtues as it contains proteins, fibers, vitamins, and minerals. It is often accompanied by bread or stuffed pastries (bricks) and seasoned with lemon or vinegar.

Ramadan is the sacred month for Muslims

Ramadan is the sacred month for Muslims, commemorating the revelation of the Quran to the Prophet Muhammad. During this month, believers abstain from drinking, eating, smoking, and engaging in sexual relations from dawn to sunset. They must also devote themselves to prayer, reading the Quran, and charity. Ramadan is therefore an opportunity to strengthen one’s faith and spirituality, purify oneself, and draw closer to God.

Recipe and Ingredients of Chorba Soup

To prepare Chorba soup for 4 people, you will need:

• 250g of lamb or mutton meat
• 3 tomatoes
• 2 carrots
• 1 zucchini
• 1 turnip
• 2 onions
• 2 celery stalks
• 100g of chickpeas
• 70g of vermicelli
• 2 tablespoons of tomato paste
• 5cl of olive oil
• 1 teaspoon of turmeric
• 1 teaspoon of paprika
• 1 teaspoon of ras el hanout
• 2 sprigs of fresh coriander
• Salt and pepper

Chorba is a traditional Algerian soup made with meat, vegetables, and vermicelli. It is often consumed during Ramadan but also throughout the year.

Here’s how to prepare a delicious Chorba at home:

• The day before, soak the chickpeas in a large bowl of cold water. The next day, drain and rinse them.
• Peel and cut the carrots, turnip, zucchini, and tomatoes into small cubes. Peel and finely chop the onion. Cut the meat into bite-sized pieces.
• In a large pot, heat the olive oil over high heat and brown the meat for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it is well browned.
• Add the onion, tomatoes, tomato paste, turmeric, paprika, ras el hanout, salt, and pepper. Mix well and let it cook for 5 minutes, stirring often.
• Add the carrots, turnip, zucchini, celery, and chickpeas. Cover with water, bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer covered for 40 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
• Add the vermicelli and cook for an additional 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are cooked.
• Wash and chop the coriander. Serve the Chorba in bowls, garnished with fresh coriander. Serve with bread and lemon wedges.

Enjoy your meal!