Spicy Algerian Doubara Soup is a hearty and flavorful dish that combines chickpeas and fava beans, seasoned with an array of spices. This delightful soup showcases the richness of Algerian cuisine, known for its bold flavors and comforting dishes. The addition of fresh ingredients like tomatoes, cilantro, and garlic at serving elevates the experience, making each bowl unique and vibrant. Traditionally served with crusty bread, Doubara is a perfect meal for both vegetarians and non-vegetarians alike.
Doubara has its roots in Algeria's rich culinary heritage, often prepared in households as a filling and economical meal. Historically, meat was considered a luxury in many Algerian homes, making this vegetarian soup a popular choice for families. It’s especially cherished during gatherings and celebrations, offering a warm and inviting dish that brings people together. The use of harissa, a spicy Tunisian chili paste, reflects the broader North African influence on Algerian cuisine, highlighting the region's love for spicy flavors.
Ingredients
- 2 cups chickpeas, soaked overnight and rinsed
- 1 cup dried fava beans, soaked overnight (optional, can be replaced with more chickpeas)
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 medium tomatoes, grated (plus extra for serving)
- 1 Serrano pepper, seeded and chopped (or any hot pepper)
- 1/4 bunch cilantro, chopped
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1/2 tablespoon harissa
- Whole pepperoncini or any pickled peppers (for serving)
- 1 lemon, sliced (for garnish)
Instructions
1. Cook the Chickpeas: In a saucepan over medium heat, add the chopped onion and 2 minced garlic cloves with olive oil. Sauté until the onion is translucent.
2. Add Chickpeas and Seasonings: Add the soaked chickpeas, bay leaf, salt, black pepper, cumin, and coriander. Stir well to combine.
3. Add Water: Pour in about 4 cups of hot water, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low. Simmer for 30-45 minutes or until chickpeas are tender. Add more water as needed.
4. Prepare the Salsa: In a food processor, combine grated tomatoes, chopped Serrano pepper, cilantro, and remaining garlic cloves. Process until blended, then transfer to a bowl.
5. Mix the Salsa: Add tomato paste, harissa, paprika, salt, coriander, cumin, and black pepper to the salsa mixture. Drizzle in about 4-5 tablespoons of olive oil and mix well. Set aside.
6. Serve: Once the chickpeas are cooked, remove from heat. Ladle the soup into serving bowls, adding 1 tablespoon or more of the salsa to each bowl. Top with additional grated tomato, chopped Serrano pepper, cilantro, and pickled peppers. Garnish with lemon slices and drizzle with olive oil.
7. Enjoy: Serve hot with crusty bread for dipping.
Notes
- Adjust the heat level by using different types of peppers or varying the amount of harissa.
- Doubara can also be enjoyed as a condiment for roasted meats.
Nutrition Value:
1. 2 cups chickpeas, soaked overnight and rinsed
- Calories: approximately 408
- Carbohydrates: 67 grams
- Protein: 21 grams
- Fat: 6 grams
- Sodium: 24 mg
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
- Vitamins: B vitamins (B1, B6, folate)
- Minerals: iron, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium
- Nutritional benefit: Great source of plant-based protein and dietary fiber, promoting digestive health and stabilizing blood sugar levels.
2. 1 cup dried fava beans, soaked overnight (optional, can be replaced with more chickpeas)
- Calories: approximately 187
- Carbohydrates: 33 grams
- Protein: 13 grams
- Fat: 0.7 grams
- Sodium: 10 mg
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
- Vitamins: A, C, and B vitamins (B1, B2, B3, B6, folate)
- Minerals: iron, magnesium, potassium, zinc
- Nutritional benefit: Rich in fiber and protein, contributing to heart health and muscle mass maintenance.
3. 1 small onion, chopped
- Calories: approximately 45
- Carbohydrates: 11 grams
- Protein: 1 gram
- Fat: 0.1 grams
- Sodium: 4 mg
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
- Vitamins: C, B6, folate
- Minerals: potassium, manganese
- Nutritional benefit: Rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, supporting heart health and immune function.
4. 4 cloves garlic, minced
- Calories: approximately 18
- Carbohydrates: 4 grams
- Protein: 0.8 grams
- Fat: 0 grams
- Sodium: 1 mg
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
- Vitamins: C, B6, manganese
- Minerals: selenium, calcium
- Nutritional benefit: Antibacterial and antiviral properties, may help lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
5. 1 bay leaf
- Calories: negligible
- Carbohydrates: 1 gram
- Protein: 0 grams
- Fat: 0 grams
- Sodium: 0 mg
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
- Vitamins: A, C, E
- Minerals: calcium, magnesium, potassium
- Nutritional benefit: Aids digestion and has antioxidant properties.
6. 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- Calories: 0
- Carbohydrates: 0 grams
- Protein: 0 grams
- Fat: 0 grams
- Sodium: 2,325 mg (based on daily recommended intake)
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
- Vitamins: None
- Minerals: None
- Nutritional benefit: Enhances flavor; consume in moderation to prevent health issues.
7. 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Calories: approximately 2
- Carbohydrates: 0.5 grams
- Protein: 0.1 grams
- Fat: 0 grams
- Sodium: 1 mg
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
- Vitamins: K
- Minerals: manganese, iron
- Nutritional benefit: Enhances nutrient absorption and has antioxidant properties.
8. 1 teaspoon coriander powder
- Calories: approximately 5
- Carbohydrates: 1 gram
- Protein: 0.2 grams
- Fat: 0.2 grams
- Sodium: 1 mg
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
- Vitamins: C, K
- Minerals: calcium, potassium, magnesium
- Nutritional benefit: Anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties; aids digestion.
9. 1 teaspoon cumin
- Calories: approximately 8
- Carbohydrates: 1 gram
- Protein: 0.4 grams
- Fat: 0.4 grams
- Sodium: 2 mg
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
- Vitamins: B vitamins (B1, B6)
- Minerals: iron, magnesium, manganese
- Nutritional benefit: Aids digestion and may improve blood sugar control.
10. 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Calories: approximately 120
- Carbohydrates: 0 grams
- Protein: 0 grams
- Fat: 14 grams
- Sodium: 0 mg
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
- Vitamins: E, K
- Minerals: iron
- Nutritional benefit: Source of healthy monounsaturated fats; reduces heart disease risk.
11. 2 medium tomatoes, grated (plus extra for serving)
- Calories: approximately 44
- Carbohydrates: 10 grams
- Protein: 2 grams
- Fat: 0.5 grams
- Sodium: 8 mg
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
- Vitamins: C, K, folate
- Minerals: potassium, manganese
- Nutritional benefit: Rich in lycopene, hydrating, and provides essential vitamins.
12. 1 Serrano pepper, seeded and chopped (or any hot pepper)
- Calories: approximately 5
- Carbohydrates: 1 gram
- Protein: 0.2 grams
- Fat: 0 grams
- Sodium: 1 mg
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
- Vitamins: C, A
- Minerals: potassium
- Nutritional benefit: Low in calories; may boost metabolism and improve heart health.
13. 1/4 bunch cilantro, chopped
- Calories: approximately 1
- Carbohydrates: 0.1 grams
- Protein: 0.1 grams
- Fat: 0 grams
- Sodium: 1 mg
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
- Vitamins: A, C, K
- Minerals: potassium, manganese
- Nutritional benefit: Rich in antioxidants and may help detoxify the body.
14. 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- Calories: approximately 13
- Carbohydrates: 3 grams
- Protein: 0.7 grams
- Fat: 0.2 grams
- Sodium: 12 mg
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
- Vitamins: C, K
- Minerals: iron, potassium
- Nutritional benefit: Concentrated in nutrients and rich in lycopene.
15. 1 tablespoon paprika
- Calories: approximately 6
- Carbohydrates: 1 gram
- Protein: 0.3 grams
- Fat: 0.3 grams
- Sodium: 1 mg
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
- Vitamins: A, E
- Minerals: iron, magnesium
- Nutritional benefit: Contains antioxidants and may improve circulation.
16. 1/2 tablespoon harissa
- Calories: approximately 10
- Carbohydrates: 1 gram
- Protein: 0.5 grams
- Fat: 0.5 grams
- Sodium: 45 mg
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
- Vitamins: A, C
- Minerals: iron
- Nutritional benefit: Adds heat and flavor while providing antioxidants.
17. Whole pepperoncini or any pickled peppers (for serving)
- Calories: approximately 5
- Carbohydrates: 1 gram
- Protein: 0 grams
- Fat: 0 grams
- Sodium: 125 mg (varies by type)
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
- Vitamins: A, C
- Minerals: potassium
- Nutritional benefit: Aids digestion and provides a tangy flavor.
18. 1 lemon, sliced (for garnish)
- Calories: approximately 4
- Carbohydrates: 1 gram
- Protein: 0.1 grams
- Fat: 0 grams
- Sodium: 1 mg
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
- Vitamins: C
- Minerals: potassium
- Nutritional benefit: Excellent source of vitamin C, supporting the immune system.
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