Tomato Shorba Recipe โ A Flavorful Middle Eastern Soup
Tomato Shorba is a heartwarming, aromatic soup from the Middle Eastern cuisine. With its vibrant tomato base, subtle spices, and a rich buttery taste, this soup is the perfect appetizer to kickstart any meal. Often served with a side of garlic bread or a simple black chickpea salad, this soup is both refreshing and satisfying. Whether you’re seeking comfort on a chilly evening or aiming to impress your guests, Tomato Shorba is an ideal choice.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Tomatoes (chopped) | 8-9 |
| Onion (chopped) | 1 |
| Carrot (chopped) | 1 |
| Butter | 1 tablespoon |
| Garlic (chopped) | 1 tablespoon |
| Cumin powder | ยฝ teaspoon |
| Sugar | ยฝ teaspoon |
| Salt (to taste) | As per taste |
| Red chili powder | ยฝ teaspoon |
| Bay leaf | 1 |
| Whole black pepper | To taste |
| Bread croutons | As needed (for serving) |
Preparation Time
- 10 minutes
Cooking Time
- 30 minutes
Total Time
- 40 minutes
Servings
- 4
Cuisine
- Middle Eastern
Course
- Appetizer
Diet
- Vegetarian
Instructions
-
Prepare the Soup Base:
Begin by heating the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Once the butter has melted, add the bay leaf and garlic. Sautรฉ them for about 10 seconds to release their flavors. -
-
Cook the Vegetables:
Next, add the chopped onion to the pan. Cook the onion until it becomes soft and translucent. Then, add the carrot and tomatoes. Sprinkle in the salt, stir the mixture, and let the vegetables cook for 5-7 minutes, allowing the tomatoes to soften and break down. -
Blending the Mixture:
Once the vegetables are fully cooked and tender, turn off the heat. Allow the mixture to cool down for a bit. Then, transfer it into a blender and blend it until smooth. -
Strain the Mixture:
After blending, strain the soup through a fine sieve to remove any coarse bits, ensuring a smooth and velvety texture. -
Simmer the Soup:
Pour the strained soup back into the saucepan and heat it on medium. Add the water as required to achieve your desired consistency. Stir in the sugar, cumin powder, red chili powder, and whole black pepper. Adjust the salt to taste. Bring the soup to a gentle boil and let it simmer for another 3-4 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. -
Final Touch:
Once the soup is ready, turn off the heat and serve it hot. Garnish the soup with bread croutons for a delightful crunch.
Serving Suggestions
Tomato Shorba is perfect as a light starter before a heavy meal. For a complete dinner experience, pair it with garlic bread and a refreshing black chickpea salad. The combination of the rich soup, crispy croutons, and the tangy salad creates a harmonious balance of flavors.
Nutritional Information (Approximate)
| Nutrient | Per Serving (1 cup) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 120 kcal |
| Protein | 2 g |
| Carbohydrates | 25 g |
| Fiber | 5 g |
| Fat | 4 g |
| Saturated Fat | 2 g |
| Sodium | 450 mg |
| Sugar | 6 g |
Tips for Perfect Tomato Shorba
- For a richer flavor, you can add a splash of cream just before serving.
- Adjust the spice levels according to your preference; you can add more chili powder for extra heat or omit it for a milder version.
- If you prefer a more substantial soup, consider adding small pieces of cooked chicken or lentils for added protein.
- The soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making it an excellent option for meal prep.
Enjoy this delightful Tomato Shorba as a warm, comforting dish that is both healthy and satisfying!
