Fahad Inc. Dishes: Meat Soup

Fahad Inc. Dishes

Shouroba la-ham~ Meat Soup

Serves 10

During Ramadan, this meat soup is very popular, probably because so many local homes boil meat every day and it is a pity to waste the stock. Vegetables may be added to personal preferences which will give added nutrition and substance, turning it into a meal in itself. Though not a traditional dish, meat soup has appeared on the local menu for many years. It should be served with sliced limes.

1 1/2 lbs (650gms) lamb neck
3 onions
4 garlic cloves
1/2 cup oatmeal
salt to taste
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon turmeric
2 teaspoons crushed dried mint
3 whole dried loomi
2 lamb stock cubes (optional)
1/2 cup fresh mixed vegetables chopped finely

Clean the neck of lamb and remove any fat. Chop onions and crush garlic. Place lamb in a large soup pot with all other ingredients plus 10 cups of water. Cook very slowly, stirring occcisionally, adding a little water if needed to stop it from thickening too much (if adding vegetables to the soup, increase the amount of water accordingly). Cook on a very low heat for 3 1/2 to 4 hours, then taste for salt and adjust if necessary. When done, add the juice of a lemon and serve immediately. The addition of stock cubes is a modern method which enhances the flavour.