RecipesAlgeriaDjari Bouhali

Djari Bouhali

Djari Bouhali is a hearty and flavorful Algerian soup, often enjoyed during cooler months. It's characterized by its rich broth, tender lamb or beef, and a medley of vegetables, seasoned with a blend of aromatic spices.

Prep Time25 minutes
Cook Time1 hour 30 minutes
Total Time1 hour 55 minutes
Servings6
DifficultyMedium
Djari Bouhali - Algeria traditional dish

🧂 Ingredients

  • 500 g Lamb or Beef(cut into 1-inch cubes)
  • 2 medium Onions(chopped)
  • 4 cloves Garlic(minced)
  • 400 g Tomatoes(canned, diced)
  • 2 medium Carrots(peeled and chopped)
  • 200 g Chickpeas(canned, drained and rinsed)
  • 1 bunch Coriander(fresh, chopped)
  • 1 bunch Parsley(fresh, chopped)
  • 3 tbsp Olive oil
  • 1 tsp Turmeric
  • 1 tsp Cumin
  • 1 tsp Paprika
  • 0.5 tsp Cinnamon
  • to taste Salt
  • to taste Black pepper
  • 1.5 l Water or Broth

👨‍🍳 Instructions

  1. 1

    Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown the lamb or beef cubes on all sides. Remove meat and set aside.

  2. 2

    Add chopped onions to the pot and sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

  3. 3

    Stir in turmeric, cumin, paprika, and cinnamon. Cook for 30 seconds, stirring constantly, until spices are fragrant.

  4. 4

    Return the meat to the pot. Add diced tomatoes, chopped carrots, and chickpeas. Pour in water or broth, ensuring the meat and vegetables are submerged.

  5. 5

    Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the meat is tender.

  6. 6

    Stir in half of the chopped coriander and parsley. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Simmer for another 10 minutes.

  7. 7

    Serve hot, garnished with the remaining fresh coriander and parsley.

💡 Pro Tips

  • For a richer flavor, use beef or lamb broth instead of water.
  • If you prefer a thicker soup, you can mash some of the chickpeas against the side of the pot.
  • Adjust the spices to your preference. A pinch of cayenne pepper can add a nice kick.

🔄 Variations

  • Add other root vegetables like potatoes or turnips.
  • For a vegetarian version, omit the meat and add more vegetables and legumes.
  • A squeeze of lemon juice just before serving can brighten the flavors.

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