Lebanese Spiced Lamb Kafta Soup with Rice
This hearty Lebanese Spiced Lamb Kafta Soup with Rice is a beloved family recipe that captures the warm and comforting flavors of Middle Eastern cuisine. Passed down through generations, this soup features tender lamb meatballs (kafta) infused with aromatic herbs and spices, simmered in a rich tomato broth. The addition of long grain rice adds substance, making it a satisfying meal perfect for cozy evenings. This dish is not only a tribute to my Lebanese heritage but also a delightful way to share love and culture through food. Serve it with a sprinkle of fresh herbs for an extra burst of flavor.
6
Servings
150
Calories
6
Ingredients
Ingredients
Ground lamb (prepared for kafta)
300 g (Ground and seasoned)
Long grain rice
150 g (Rinsed and drained)
Tomato puree
4 tablespoons (None)
Instant chicken bouillon granules
1 tablespoon (None)
Water
2 liters (None)
Clarified butter
1 tablespoon (Rendered or clarified)
Instructions
1
In a mixing bowl, shape the prepared kafta into small meatballs, approximately the size of a hazelnut.
2
In a large saucepan, heat the clarified butter over medium heat until shimmering. Carefully add the kafta meatballs in batches, browning them on all sides for about 5-7 minutes.
3
Once browned, stir in the tomato puree and allow it to cook for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
4
Pour in the water and sprinkle in the instant chicken bouillon granules. Stir gently to combine all ingredients.
5
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Add the rinsed rice, cover, and let simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the flavors meld beautifully.
6
Taste and adjust seasoning with salt as necessary before serving.
Nutrition Information
9
Fat
10
Carbs
11
Protein
1
Fiber
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Lebanese Spiced Lamb Kafta Soup with Rice?
It is a traditional Middle Eastern soup featuring spiced lamb meatballs and long grain rice in a savory tomato-based broth.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe yields approximately 6 servings.
What size should the kafta meatballs be?
The meatballs should be shaped to be approximately the size of a hazelnut.
How long does it take to brown the meatballs?
The kafta meatballs should be browned on all sides for about 5 to 7 minutes.
What type of fat is used for sautéing?
The recipe uses 1 tablespoon of clarified butter for browning the meat.
How much water is required for the broth?
The recipe calls for 2 liters of water.
What kind of rice is best for this soup?
Long grain rice is recommended for its texture and substance.
Do I need to rinse the rice?
Yes, the rice should be rinsed and drained before being added to the soup.
How long should the rice simmer?
The rice should simmer in the soup for about 20 minutes until tender.
What gives the broth its flavor?
The flavor comes from tomato puree, instant chicken bouillon granules, and the juices from the browned lamb kafta.
How many calories are in one serving?
Each serving contains 150 calories.
What is the protein content per serving?
There are 11 grams of protein in each serving of the soup.
How much fat is in this soup?
Each serving contains 9 grams of fat.
What are the total carbohydrates per serving?
There are 10 grams of carbohydrates in a single serving.
Is there fiber in this recipe?
Yes, there is 1 gram of fiber per serving.
Can I substitute the lamb with another meat?
While traditionally made with lamb, you could use ground beef prepared in the kafta style as a substitute.
What is the first step in preparing the soup?
The first step is to shape the prepared kafta into small, hazelnut-sized meatballs.
When should I add the tomato puree?
Stir in the tomato puree after the meatballs have been browned and cook for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
Should the saucepan be covered while cooking?
Yes, the saucepan should be covered while the rice is simmering.
How do I know when the soup is ready?
The soup is ready when the rice is tender and the flavors have melded together, usually after 20 minutes of simmering.
Can I adjust the seasoning?
Yes, you should taste the soup and adjust the salt levels as necessary before serving.
What is kafta?
Kafta is a seasoned ground meat mixture, in this case using lamb, common in Middle Eastern cuisine.
What temperature should I use to brown the meatballs?
Heat the clarified butter over medium heat until shimmering before adding the meatballs.
Is this recipe considered a quick meal?
Yes, it is tagged as a quick recipe, making it ideal for a weeknight dinner.
What is the consistency of this soup?
It is a hearty and substantial soup due to the combination of meatballs and long grain rice.
What kind of bouillon is used?
The recipe uses 1 tablespoon of instant chicken bouillon granules.
Can I garnish the soup?
Yes, it is recommended to serve the soup with a sprinkle of fresh herbs for added flavor.
How much lamb is needed?
The recipe requires 300 grams of ground lamb prepared for kafta.
How much tomato puree is used?
The recipe calls for 4 tablespoons of tomato puree.
What tags are associated with this dish?
Tags include Lebanese, soup, lamb, kafta, comfort food, and Middle Eastern.