How to Make Turkish Soup with Lamb, Bulgur, and Tomato
Turkish cuisine is renowned for its rich flavors and hearty dishes. One such delightful recipe is Turkish soup with lamb, bulgur, and tomato—a dish that warms the soul and delights the palate. This recipe combines tender lamb, nutritious bulgur, and the freshness of tomatoes to create a comforting bowl of goodness. Follow these steps to prepare this satisfying Turkish soup at home.
Ingredients
- 500g lamb shoulder, cut into small pieces
- 1 cup bulgur (fine or coarse)
- 2 medium-sized tomatoes, diced
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 4 cups lamb or beef broth
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Preparing the Ingredients
Before you start cooking, make sure all your ingredients are prepared. Chop the onion and garlic, dice the tomatoes, and cut the lamb into small pieces. Rinse the bulgur under cold water until the water runs clear, then drain it well.
Step 2: Searing the Lamb
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the pieces of lamb and sear them until browned on all sides. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Browning the meat adds depth of flavor to the soup.
Step 3: Sautéing the Aromatics
Once the lamb is browned, add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent and aromatic, which should take about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the cumin and paprika for additional spice.
Step 4: Adding Tomatoes and Broth
Next, add the diced tomatoes and tomato paste to the pot. Stir well to combine, allowing the tomatoes to soften slightly. After a few minutes, pour in the broth and season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a boil.
Step 5: Cooking the Bulgur
Once the soup reaches a boil, reduce the heat to low. Add the rinsed bulgur to the pot and stir. Cover the pot and let the soup simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the lamb is tender and the bulgur has absorbed the flavors and softened.
Step 6: Final Adjustments
After the cooking time, check the consistency of the soup. If it’s too thick, you can add a bit more broth or water to reach your desired consistency. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
Step 7: Serving the Soup
Once everything is cooked to perfection, ladle the Turkish soup into bowls. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness. Serve hot, paired with crusty bread or a simple salad for a complete meal.
Tips for the Perfect Turkish Soup
- Choosing the Right Meat: Opt for lamb shoulder, as it becomes tender and flavorful during cooking.
- Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add vegetables like carrots or bell peppers for extra nutrition.
- Serving Suggestions: This soup pairs well with a dollop of yogurt or a sprinkle of lemon juice for added tang.
Enjoy your homemade Turkish soup with lamb, bulgur, and tomato, and impress your family and friends with this warm and hearty dish!