Freekeh soup with chicken is a Middle Eastern-inspired soup made with whole-grain roasted green wheat, tender chicken, and a blend of aromatic spices that will warm you up from the inside out.
To make this flavorful soup, you will need a whole chicken, freekeh, onions, seven spices, salt, white pepper, olive oil, and a few other ingredients.
What Is Freekeh?
Freekeh is a roasted green wheat originating in the Middle East. It has been a staple food in the region for centuries and is now gaining popularity in other parts of the world. The name “freekeh” comes from the Arabic word “farik,” which means “to rub,” referring to the process of rubbing the wheat grains to remove the chaff and roast them.
One of the unique characteristics of freekeh is its smoky flavor, which comes from the roasting process. It also has a chewy texture that adds depth to dishes. In terms of nutrition, freekeh is high in protein and fiber, making it a great addition to any diet.
Ingredients:
- 1 whole chicken
- 1 1/2 cups of freekeh
- 2 onions
- 1 teaspoon of 7-spice
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1/2 teaspoon of white pepper
- 3 tablespoons of olive oil
To boil the chicken:
- 10 cups of water
- 1/2 onion
- Bay leaves
- Cloves
- 2 teaspoons of salt
- 1 teaspoon of black pepper
How to Make Freekeh Soup with Chicken?
- Begin by placing a whole chicken, half an onion, bay leaves, cloves, and cinnamon sticks in a large pot—season generously with salt and black pepper before covering with approximately 10 cups of water.
- Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce heat to medium and simmer until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and is easily shredded about one hour. Skim any surface impurities during cooking. Remove the chicken to cool before shredding.
- While the chicken cooks, prepare the freekeh by rinsing thoroughly in a medium bowl to remove debris. Drain any floating particles.
- In a large pot, sauté finely diced onions in olive oil over medium-high heat until softened. Add rinsed freekeh and a blend of seven spices, cooking for two minutes before incorporating the prepared chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium, cover, and simmer until freekeh is tender approximately 30 minutes.
- Stir in shredded chicken and season to taste with white pepper and salt. Serve the soup hot.
Serving Suggestions
Garnishes and Toppings
- Chopped fresh herbs such as parsley, cilantro, or mint
- A dollop of plain yogurt or sour cream
- Toasted nuts such as almonds or pine nuts
- A drizzle of olive oil or hot sauce
- Croutons or crispy fried onions
Accompaniments
- Warm pita bread or crusty bread for dipping
- A side salad of mixed greens with a tangy vinaigrette
- Roasted vegetables such as sweet potatoes, carrots, or zucchini
- A platter of fresh fruit for dessert
Storage and Reheating Tips
Here are some tips to ensure your freekeh soup stays fresh and delicious:
- Store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- To freeze the soup, let it cool completely and then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It will keep for up to 3 months.
- Heat it on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until it’s heated through.
- If you’re short on time, you can also reheat the soup in the microwave. Just be sure to stir it every 30 seconds to ensure even heating.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 370kcal
Carbohydrates: 24g
Protein: 24g
Fat: 21g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 4g
Monounsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 71mg
Sodium: 800mg
Potassium: 243mg
Fiber: 4g
Sugar: 2g
Vitamin A: 139IU
Vitamin C: 4mg
Calcium: 50mg
Iron: 2mg
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the freekeh: Freekeh is a type of wheat that has been harvested while still young and green. It has a nutty flavor and a chewy texture that can be ruined if overcooked. Be sure to follow the cooking instructions carefully and keep an eye on the freekeh while it’s cooking.
- Using too much salt: Chicken broth is already salty, so be careful when adding additional salt to the soup. It’s always better to start with a small amount and add more later if needed.
- Using the wrong type of chicken: I recommend using bone-in chicken thighs for this recipe. They add more flavor to the soup than boneless, skinless chicken breasts.
- Not letting the soup simmer long enough: The longer the soup simmers, the more flavorful it will be. Don’t rush the cooking process and be sure to let the soup simmer for at least 30 minutes.
Conclusion
I hope you enjoyed learning about my recipe for freekeh soup with chicken! Throughout this article, I’ve shared with you the ingredients and steps necessary to create this delicious and nutritious soup.
By using freekeh as the main ingredient, you can enjoy a meal that is high in fiber and protein, while also being low in fat. The addition of chicken adds even more protein, making this soup a great option for those looking to increase their protein intake.
One of the best things about this recipe is that it’s incredibly easy to make. With just a few simple steps, you can have a hearty and flavorful soup that’s perfect for any time of year.
I encourage you to give this recipe a try and let me know what you think! Whether you’re looking for a healthy lunch option or a comforting dinner, freekeh soup with chicken is sure to satisfy.
By the way, pairing this soup with homemade kaak will make a delicious meal!
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