Shqeto
Kosovar Lamb Soup
A hearty and flavorful lamb soup, often referred to as Shqeto in Kosovo and Albania. This comforting soup features tender lamb cooked in a rich broth with vegetables, and is often finished with a creamy liaison of egg yolk and lemon.
🧂 Ingredients
- 600 g Lamb(cut into 2-3 cm pieces, bone-in or boneless)
- 1 medium Onion(finely chopped)
- 20 g Butter(unsalted)
- 1 tbsp Olive Oil
- 1 tbsp All-purpose flour
- 250 ml Milk
- 1 large Egg yolk
- 1-2 tbsp Lemon juice(freshly squeezed)
- 1.5 liters Water or Lamb Broth
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black Pepper
- 2 tbsp Fresh Parsley(finely chopped, for garnish)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Wash and cut the lamb into pieces. Season with salt and pepper.
- 2
In a pot, heat butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.
- 3
Add the lamb pieces to the pot and brown them on all sides. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until lightly golden.
- 4
Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring continuously to create a smooth cream sauce. Be careful not to let the flour stick to the bottom.
- 5
Pour in the water or lamb broth. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 50-60 minutes, or until the lamb is tender. Add more liquid if needed.
- 6
While the soup simmers, prepare the liaison. In a small bowl, whisk together the egg yolk and lemon juice until well combined. Gradually whisk in a ladleful of the hot soup broth to temper the egg mixture.
- 7
Slowly pour the tempered egg mixture back into the pot of soup, stirring constantly. Do not let the soup boil after adding the liaison, as it may curdle.
- 8
Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Simmer for another 5 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- 9
Serve hot, garnished with fresh chopped parsley.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Using lamb with bones will add more flavor to the broth.
- ✓Ensure the soup does not boil after adding the egg-lemon mixture to prevent curdling.
- ✓Adjust the amount of lemon juice to your preference; start with less and add more if desired.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add diced vegetables like carrots, potatoes, or celery to the soup along with the lamb.
- For a richer flavor, use homemade lamb broth instead of water.