Discover the authentic taste of Soor, a delicious cornmeal porridge similar to polenta. This hearty dish, rich in flavor and texture, is often served with tender meats or fresh vegetables, making it a perfect comfort food. Learn how to prepare this traditional recipe and enjoy a wholesome meal that brings the essence of simple yet satisfying cuisine to your table.

Ingredients: 

- 2 cups cornmeal  

- 6 cups water or broth (vegetable, chicken, or beef)  

- 1 tsp salt  

- 1 tbsp butter or oil  

- 1/2 tsp black pepper (optional)  

- Meat or vegetables for serving (e.g., grilled chicken, beef stew, roasted vegetables)

Instructions:

Prepare the Base: In a large pot, bring the water or broth to a boil. Add the salt.

Cook the Cornmeal: Slowly add the cornmeal to the boiling water, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.

Simmer: Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let the mixture simmer for about 30-40 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Add Butter: Once the porridge is thick and smooth, stir in butter or oil, and season with black pepper if desired.

Serve with Meat or Vegetables: Serve hot, topped with your choice of meat, like stewed beef or grilled chicken, or roasted vegetables for a vegetarian option.

Notes 

- You can adjust the consistency of Soor by adding more or less liquid, depending on your preference.

Nutritional values

Cornmeal (2 cups)

 - Calories: About 365 kcal

 - Carbohydrates: 73 grams

 - Protein: 7 grams

 - Fat: 1.5 grams

Benefits:

 - Cornmeal is a good source of carbohydrates for energy. It provides some protein and essential minerals like magnesium and phosphorus.

Water or Broth (6 cups)

Water:

  - Calories: 0

  - Carbohydrates: 0 grams

  - Protein: 0 grams

  - Fat: 0 grams

Benefits:

  - Essential for hydration and cooking. Water is used to cook the cornmeal, ensuring it achieves the right texture.

Broth:

  - Calories: About 10-15 kcal (vegetable or chicken)

  - Carbohydrates: 1-2 grams

  - Protein: 1-2 grams

  - Fat: 0 grams

Benefits:

  - Adds flavor and nutrients to the cornmeal. Broths contain minerals and can enhance the overall taste of the dish.

Salt (1 tsp)

 - Sodium: About 38,000 mg

Benefits:

 - Enhances flavor and balances the taste of the dish. Essential for electrolyte balance and nerve function, but should be used in moderation.

Butter or Oil (1 tbsp)

Butter:

  - Calories: About 717 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: 0 grams

  - Protein: 0.9 grams

  - Fat: 81 grams

Benefits:

  - Adds richness and flavor to the dish. Butter provides fat-soluble vitamins like A, D, E, and K.

Oil:

  - Calories: About 884 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: 0 grams

  - Protein: 0 grams

  - Fat: 100 grams

Benefits:

  - Used for cooking and adds a smooth texture. Choose oils with healthier fat profiles, such as olive oil.

Black Pepper (½ tsp, optional)

 - Calories: About 255 kcal

 - Carbohydrates: 64 grams

 - Protein: 10 grams

 - Fat: 3 grams

Benefits:

 - Adds flavor and has potential health benefits like improving digestion and having anti-inflammatory properties.

Meat or Vegetables for Serving

Meat (e.g., grilled chicken, beef stew):

  - Chicken (per 100 grams, grilled): About 165 kcal, 31 grams protein, 3.6 grams fat

  - Beef (per 100 grams, cooked): About 250 kcal, 26 grams protein, 17 grams fat

Benefits:

  - Provides protein and essential nutrients. Meat can be a rich source of iron and B vitamins.

Vegetables (e.g., roasted vegetables):

  - Carrots (per 100 grams, roasted): About 80 kcal, 1.3 grams protein, 0.2 grams fat

  - Bell peppers (per 100 grams, roasted): About 50 kcal, 1 gram protein, 0.5 grams fat

Benefits:

  - Vegetables are high in vitamins, minerals, and fiber. They add flavor and nutritional value to the dish.

This combination of ingredients is typically used to prepare a cornmeal-based dish, such as polenta or a cornmeal porridge. Cornmeal provides the base, while water or broth is used for cooking. Salt and butter or oil add flavor and richness, and black pepper can enhance the taste. The choice of meat or vegetables for serving complements the dish with additional nutrients and flavors.