Craving a comforting and flavorful soup that's both healthy and exotic? Look no further than this delicious Chicken Freekeh Soup! This vibrant Middle Eastern-inspired recipe combines tender chicken with the nutty, smoky flavor of freekeh, a nutritious ancient grain. Bursting with aromatic spices like cinnamon and cumin, and infused with the bright freshness of lemon and herbs, this soup is a true culinary delight. It's the perfect meal for a chilly evening or a satisfying lunch, offering a balanced and satisfying experience.
This recipe effortlessly blends familiar ingredients with unique flavors to create a truly unforgettable culinary journey. Ready to experience the magic of this wholesome and flavorful soup? Let's dive into the easy step-by-step instructions below to create your own bowl of delicious Chicken Freekeh Soup!
Tools Needed
- Pot
- Cutting board
- Knife
Ingredients
- Sliced chicken breast
- Freekeh: 1 cup
- Potato: 1 large, cubed
- Peas
- Carrots
- Samne (ghee): a couple of tablespoons
- Onion: 1 large, sliced
- Chicken broth cube: 1
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Vinegar
- Lemon
- Flour
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare Ingredients
- Clean the freekeh thoroughly, removing any small stones. Rinse several times. Add a dash of salt and soak in boiling water until ready to use.
- Clean the chicken with vinegar, lemon, salt, and flour. Rinse thoroughly with cold water.
Step 2. Sauté Chicken and Vegetables
- Heat the samne (ghee) in a pot over medium-high heat. Sauté the chicken until lightly browned, ensuring not to overcook it.
- Add the sliced onions to the chicken and sauté until slightly translucent.
- Add the cubed potatoes and sauté briefly to blend flavors.
- Add the peas and carrots (fresh or frozen, washed and drained). Sauté until everything is well combined.
Step 3. Combine and Season
- Add the chicken broth cube, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
- Drain the soaked freekeh and add it to the pot.
Step 4. Simmer and Serve
- Add enough boiling water to almost cover the ingredients. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 35-45 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the freekeh is tender.
Read more: Delicious Chicken Maqluba Rice Recipe (Sinhala)
Tips
- Cleaning the freekeh is crucial to remove any small stones.
- Don't over-brown the chicken during sautéing, as it will continue cooking in the soup.
- Using boneless, skinless chicken breast makes for easier cooking and a cleaner soup, though chicken legs or a whole chicken can also be used.
- The freekeh will expand during cooking, doubling in size.
Nutrition
- Calories: approximately 450-550
- Fat: 15-25g
- Carbs: 50-60g
- Protein: 30-40g
FAQs
1. Can I substitute freekeh with another grain?
Yes! Brown rice, quinoa, or even barley can work as substitutes, though the flavor profile will slightly change. Brown rice is a good choice for a similar texture.
2. How can I make this soup spicier?
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a chopped chili pepper to the soup while it simmers. You can also increase the amount of cumin or add a dash of harissa paste for extra heat.
3. Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! This soup tastes even better the next day. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
This Chicken Freekeh Soup is a testament to the simple elegance of Middle Eastern cuisine, offering a heartwarming and flavorful experience with minimal effort. From its aromatic spices to its satisfying texture, this recipe is sure to become a new family favorite. Enjoy the deliciousness and the warmth this soup brings to your table!