Cookbook:Shorba bil Lahm (Libyan Meat Soup)

Shorba bil lahm is a comforting and hearty meat soup popular in Libyan cuisine. It is flavorful and broth-based, packed with tender pieces of meat, vegetables, and aromatic spices. It is often enjoyed as a satisfying meal on its own or as a starter to a larger feast.

Ingredients

 * 2 tablespoons olive oil
 * 1 onion, finely chopped
 * 3 cloves of garlic, minced
 * 500 grams (1 lb) boneless lamb or beef, cut into small cubes
 * 1 teaspoon ground cumin
 * 1 teaspoon ground coriander
 * ½ teaspoon ground turmeric
 * ½ teaspoon ground cayenne pepper (adjust according to spice preference)
 * Salt to taste
 * Pepper, to taste
 * 2 carrots, peeled and diced
 * 2 potatoes, peeled and diced
 * 2 tomatoes, chopped
 * 1 liter (4 cups) vegetable broth or beef broth
 * Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped, for garnish

Equipment

 * Large pot
 * Stovetop
 * Wooden spoon or spatula
 * Cutting board
 * Chef's knife
 * Measuring spoons
 * Measuring cups
 * Vegetable peeler
 * Soup ladle
 * Serving bowls

Procedure

 * 1) Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
 * 2) Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot and sauté until they become translucent and fragrant.
 * 3) Add the diced lamb or beef cubes to the pot and cook until browned on all sides.
 * 4) Stir in the ground cumin, ground coriander, ground turmeric, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper, and cook for another minute to toast the spices.
 * 5) Add the chopped carrots, potatoes, and tomatoes to the pot, and stir well to combine with the meat and spices.
 * 6) Pour in the vegetable broth or beef broth, and bring the soup to a boil.
 * 7) Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the soup simmer for about 1 hour, or until the meat is tender and the flavors have melded together.
 * 8) Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
 * 9) Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or cilantro.

Notes, tips, and variations

 * You can customize the vegetables in the soup according to your preference. Other commonly added vegetables include celery, bell peppers, and zucchini.
 * Add a handful of cooked chickpeas or lentils to the soup for added protein and texture. For a spicier version, add a pinch of chili flakes or a finely chopped chili pepper.
 * For a richer flavor, you can brown the meat in batches before adding the onions and garlic.
 * This soup can be made in advance and reheated for serving. In fact, the flavors often deepen and improve after sitting for a day.
 * If using tougher cuts of meat, you can cook the soup for a longer time to ensure the meat becomes tender.
 * Serve the soup with warm crusty bread for dipping and sopping up the delicious broth.
 * Garnish the soup with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for a tangy twist.