Shorbat Adams bil Dajaj
Omani Chicken and Lentil Soup
A hearty and flavorful Omani soup featuring tender chicken and red lentils, simmered with aromatic spices for a comforting meal.
๐ง Ingredients
- 500 g Chicken breast(cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 1 cup Red lentils(rinsed)
- 1 medium Onion(finely chopped)
- 4 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 1 tablespoon Ginger(grated fresh)
- 400 g Tomatoes(canned diced)
- 6 cups Chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon Turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon Cumin powder
- 1 teaspoon Coriander powder
- 1 small Cinnamon stick
- 2 tablespoons Olive oil
- Salt(to taste)
- Black pepper(to taste)
- Fresh cilantro(chopped, for garnish)
- Lemon wedges(for serving)
๐จโ๐ณ Instructions
- 1
Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sautรฉ until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- 2
Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- 3
Stir in the turmeric, cumin, and coriander powders. Cook for 30 seconds, stirring constantly, until fragrant.
- 4
Add the diced tomatoes and the cinnamon stick to the pot. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring to combine.
- 5
Add the chicken pieces to the pot and brown them lightly on all sides.
- 6
Pour in the chicken broth and add the rinsed red lentils. Bring the soup to a boil.
- 7
Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the lentils are tender and the chicken is cooked through. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- 8
Remove the cinnamon stick. Season the soup with salt and black pepper to taste.
- 9
Ladle the soup into bowls. Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro and serve with lemon wedges on the side.
๐ก Pro Tips
- โFor a thicker soup, you can mash some of the cooked lentils against the side of the pot.
- โAdjust the spices according to your preference. A pinch of chili flakes can add a little heat.
- โIf you don't have chicken broth, vegetable broth or water can be used, but chicken broth adds more depth of flavor.
โจ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add other vegetables like carrots or potatoes, diced, along with the lentils.
- For a vegetarian version, omit the chicken and use vegetable broth. Add chickpeas for protein.
- A touch of tomato paste can be added with the diced tomatoes for a richer tomato flavor.