Chakhchoukha is a cherished dish in Algerian cuisine, celebrated for its rich flavors and heartiness. This traditional stew combines homemade pasta with tender meat, seasonal vegetables, and a blend of aromatic spices, making it a perfect choice for special occasions like weddings, religious holidays, and family gatherings. The dish is not only delicious but also nutritious, packed with protein, fiber, and essential vitamins. Often served hot and garnished with fresh herbs, Chakhchoukha exemplifies the communal spirit of Algerian dining, inviting family and friends to share a memorable meal.
The origins of Chakhchoukha can be traced back to Algeria's diverse cultural heritage, where Berber, Arab, and Mediterranean influences have melded over centuries. Traditionally prepared in large communal pots, this dish reflects the values of hospitality and sharing inherent in Algerian culture. It showcases the significance of homemade elements, such as the pasta, emphasizing the importance of family traditions and culinary craftsmanship passed down through generations.
ingredients:
1- 2 cups of semolina flour
2- 1 teaspoon of salt
3- 1 cup of warm water
4- 1 onion, chopped
5- 2 garlic cloves, minced
6- 1 tablespoon of tomato paste
7- 1 teaspoon of cumin
8- 1 teaspoon of paprika
9- 1 teaspoon of coriander
10- 1 teaspoon of turmeric
11- 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon
12- 2 cups of chicken or lamb broth
13- 1 pound of lamb or beef, cut into small pieces
14- 2 carrots, chopped
15- 2 potatoes, chopped
16- 1 bell pepper, chopped
17- 1 zucchini, chopped
18- 1 tablespoon of olive oil
19- Salt and pepper to taste
Here is a step-by-step guide to making Chakhchoukha:
1- In a large bowl, mix together the semolina flour and salt. Slowly add in the warm water, stirring constantly until a dough forms.
2- Knead the dough for several minutes until it is smooth and elastic. Cover the dough and let it rest for at least 30 minutes.
3- After the dough has rested, divide it into small pieces and roll each piece into thin ropes.
4- Cut the ropes into small pieces and place them in a steamer basket or colander. Steam the pasta for about 20 minutes until it is cooked through.
5- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic and sauté for a few minutes until they become fragrant.
6- Add the tomato paste and spices to the pot and stir to combine. Cook for another minute or two until the spices are fragrant.
7- Add the chopped vegetables and meat to the pot and stir to combine. Pour in the chicken or lamb broth and bring the mixture to a boil.
8- Reduce the heat to low and let the stew simmer for about 30 minutes, or until the vegetables and meat are tender.
9- Once the stew is cooked, add the steamed pasta to the pot and stir to combine. Cook for another 5-10 minutes until the pasta has absorbed some of the broth.
10- Serve the Chakhchoukha hot, garnished with fresh herbs such as cilantro or parsley.
Here are some notes and tips for making Chakhchoukha:
1- You can use any combination of vegetables and meat that you like in this dish. Some variations include adding chickpeas, green beans, or eggplant to the stew.
2- The homemade pasta can be time-consuming to make, so you can also use store-bought pasta if you prefer.
3- The spices used in Chakhchoukha can be adjusted to your taste. If you prefer a spicier dish, you can increase the amount of paprika or add some red pepper flakes.
Nutrition Value:
Here are the nutrition facts for Chakhchoukha, per serving (based on 6 servings):
- Calories: 449
- Fat: 16g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Protein: 32g
- Fiber: 6g
- Sodium: 1119mg
Overall, Chakhchoukha is a delicious and satisfying dish that is perfect for a special occasion or a hearty meal on a cold day.
Here is the nutrition information for the listed ingredients in the Chakhchoukha recipe:
Semolina Flour (2 cups):
- Calories: 708
- Carbohydrates: 143g
- Protein: 23g
- Fat: 1g
- Fiber: 8g
benefits: Semolina is high in protein and fiber, which can help you feel full and satisfied. It also contains iron, which is important for carrying oxygen in the blood.
Salt (1 teaspoon):
- Calories: 0
- Carbohydrates: 0g
- Protein: 0g
- Fat: 0g
benefits: Salt is essential for maintaining the body's electrolyte balance and is important for muscle and nerve function.
Warm Water (1 cup):
- Calories: 0
- Carbohydrates: 0g
- Protein: 0g
- Fat: 0g
benefits: Drinking warm water can improve digestion, help with weight loss, and increase metabolism.
Onion, chopped (1 medium-sized):
- Calories: 44
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Protein: 1g
- Fat: 0g
- Fiber: 2g
benefits: Onions are rich in antioxidants and can help reduce inflammation, lower cholesterol levels, and improve heart health.
Garlic Cloves, minced (2 cloves):
- Calories: 9
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Protein: 0g
- Fat: 0g
- Fiber: 0g
benefits: Garlic has antibacterial and antiviral properties, and it may help lower cholesterol and blood pressure.
Tomato Paste (1 tablespoon):
- Calories: 13
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Protein: 0g
- Fat: 0g
- Fiber: 1g
benefits: Tomatoes are rich in vitamins A and C, potassium, and antioxidants, which can help reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
Cumin (1 teaspoon):
- Calories: 8
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Protein: 0g
- Fat: 0g
- Fiber: 0g
benefits: Cumin is a good source of iron and may help improve digestion and reduce inflammation.
Paprika (1 teaspoon):
- Calories: 6
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Protein: 0g
- Fat: 0g
- Fiber: 1g
benefits: Paprika is rich in antioxidants and may help reduce inflammation and improve digestion.
Coriander (1 teaspoon):
- Calories: 0
- Carbohydrates: 0g
- Protein: 0g
- Fat: 0g
- Fiber: 0g
benefits: Coriander is rich in vitamins A, C, and K, and may help lower blood sugar levels and cholesterol.
Turmeric (1 teaspoon):
- Calories: 9
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Protein: 0g
- Fat: 0g
- Fiber: 0g
benefits: Turmeric contains curcumin, which has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
Cinnamon (1/2 teaspoon):
- Calories: 3
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Protein: 0g
- Fat: 0g
- Fiber: 1g
benefits: Cinnamon may help lower blood sugar levels and reduce the risk of heart disease.
Chicken or Lamb Broth (2 cups):
- Calories: 32 (may vary based on the specific broth)
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Fat: 1g
- Fiber: 0g
benefits: Broth is rich in nutrients and can help keep you hydrated and support digestion.
Lamb or Beef, cut into small pieces (1 pound):
- Calories: Approximately 900-1100 (varies based on the type and cut of meat)
- Carbohydrates: 0g
- Protein: 100g
- Fat: 60-80g (varies based on the type and cut of meat)
- Fiber: 0g
benefits: Lamb and beef are good sources of protein, iron, and B vitamins.
Carrots, chopped (2 medium-sized):
- Calories: 52
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Protein: 1g
- Fat: 0g
- Fiber: 4g
benefits: Carrots are rich in beta-carotene, which is converted into vitamin A in the body and is important for eye health.
Potatoes, chopped (2 medium-sized):
- Calories: 260
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Protein: 6g
- Fat: 0g
- Fiber: 8g
benefits: Potatoes are a good source of vitamins C and B6, potassium, and fiber.
Bell Pepper, chopped (1 medium-sized):
- Calories: 25
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Protein: 1g
- Fat: 0g
- Fiber: 2g
benefits: Bell peppers are rich in vitamins A and C, and may help reduce inflammation and improve eye health.
Zucchini, chopped (1 medium-sized):
- Calories: 33
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Protein: 2g
- Fat: 0g
- Fiber: 2g
benefits: Zucchini is low in calories and rich in vitamins A and C, potassium, and fiber.
Olive Oil (1 tablespoon):
- Calories: 119
- Carbohydrates: 0g
- Protein: 0g
- Fat: 14g
- Fiber: 0g
benefits: Olive oil is rich in monounsaturated fats and antioxidants, which may help reduce inflammation and lower the risk of heart disease.
Please note that the nutrition information provided is approximate and can vary depending on the specific brands and quantities of ingredients used. Additionally, cooking methods and additional seasonings or ingredients can also impact the final nutritional content of the dish.
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