Tomato Shorba Recipe: A Middle Eastern Delight
Tomato Shorba, a delightful soup from Middle Eastern cuisine, is a vibrant and comforting dish that tantalizes the taste buds with its rich flavors and inviting aroma. This soup is not only easy to prepare but also a nourishing appetizer that can warm up any gathering or family dinner. Here’s how you can create this delectable dish, perfect for vegetarian diets and ideal for any time of the year.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Tomatoes (chopped) | 8-9 medium-sized |
| Onion (chopped) | 1 large |
| Carrot (Gajjar, chopped) | 1 medium |
| Butter | 1 tablespoon |
| Garlic (chopped) | 1 tablespoon |
| Cumin powder (Jeera) | 1/2 tablespoon |
| Sugar | 1/2 tablespoon |
| Salt | To taste |
| Red Chilli powder | 1/2 tablespoon |
| Bay leaf (Tej patta) | 1 leaf |
| Whole Black Peppercorns (crushed) | As required |
| Fried Bread Cubes (Croutons) | For garnish |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | Approx. 120 |
| Protein | 3g |
| Carbohydrates | 18g |
| Fat | 5g |
| Fiber | 3g |
Preparation Time
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Servings: 4
Instructions
To embark on your journey to create this delicious Tomato Shorba, begin by gathering all your ingredients. In a sturdy saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once the butter has melted and is bubbling gently, add the bay leaf along with the chopped garlic. Sauté the garlic for just a few seconds until it releases its delightful aroma, being careful not to let it brown.
Next, introduce the chopped onion into the saucepan. Sauté until the onions are soft and translucent, which should take about 4-5 minutes. The sweet aroma of the sautéed onions will fill your kitchen, preparing you for the deliciousness to come.
Once the onions are ready, add the chopped carrot and the vibrant tomatoes to the pot. Season with a pinch of salt to help the vegetables cook down more quickly. Stir everything together and allow the mixture to simmer, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes and carrots are fully tender, about 10-15 minutes.
After the vegetables are cooked, remove the saucepan from heat and let the mixture cool slightly. Once cooled, transfer the contents to a hand blender and blend until you achieve a smooth, creamy puree. For an extra smooth texture, pass the puree through a soup strainer or sieve back into the saucepan.
Return the smooth tomato mixture to the heat and add enough water to reach your desired consistency, as Shorba is traditionally served with a thin, broth-like consistency. Stir in the sugar, cumin powder, red chilli powder, and the crushed black pepper. Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt if needed.
Allow the shorba to come to a gentle boil, which will meld the flavors beautifully. Once it has reached a nice boil and is aromatic, pour the soup into serving bowls. Top each bowl with a generous handful of fried bread cubes for added crunch and texture.
Serve your warm Tomato Shorba alongside slices of fresh Focaccia or Masala bread, and a comforting cup of ginger tea to enhance the experience. This dish not only serves as a comforting appetizer but also brings warmth and flavor to your dining table.
Enjoy!
Tomato Shorba is a beautiful representation of how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly special. With its rich flavors and enticing aroma, this soup will surely be a hit at your next gathering or a cozy family meal. Enjoy the warmth and nourishment that this delightful recipe brings!
