Chorba Frik (Freekeh Soup)

Chorba frik (شربة فريك) is a popular Algerian and Tunisian soup made from crushed green wheat. It is a specialty of the Sétif highlands region of Algeria.

Ingredients

  • 300 grams (⅔ pound) ground beef
  • 200 grams (7 ounces) crushed green wheat
  • 100 grams (3.5 ounces) chopped celery
  • 100 grams (3.5 ounces) chopped parsley
  • 1 tablespoon tomato puree
  • 1 teaspoon chile flakes
  • 1 teaspoon pepper
  • 2 teaspoons salt
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 liters (8½ cups) water
  • 1 lemon
  • 100 grams (3.5 ounces) soaked chickpeas (optional)

Procedure

  1. Mix all the ingredients together in a pot large enough to contain everything.
  2. Place the pot over low heat. Cook for 90 minutes, stirring often.
  3. Serve with lemon