Syrian Chicken and Rice Soup with Lemon and Mint
This heartwarming Syrian Chicken and Rice Soup is infused with the zesty flavors of lemon and fresh mint, creating a comforting and aromatic dish that's perfect for any meal.
Equipment
- Large pot
- Cutting board
- Chef's knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon or spatula
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped about 1 cup/225 g
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces 450 g
- 6 cups chicken stock 1.4 liters
- 1/2 cup uncooked white rice 100 g
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice 60 ml
- 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped 6 g
- Lemon slices and additional mint leaves for garnish
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add the garlic and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Increase the heat to medium-high and add the chicken pieces to the pot. Cook until the chicken is lightly browned on all sides.
- Pour in the chicken stock and bring the mixture to a boil.
- Stir in the uncooked rice, cumin, and cinnamon. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Lower the heat, cover the pot, and let the soup simmer for about 30 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the chicken is cooked through.
- Remove the pot from the heat and stir in the fresh lemon juice and chopped mint.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Serve the soup hot, garnished with lemon slices and additional mint leaves.
Notes
For a gluten-free version, substitute the white rice with cooked brown rice or quinoa, adding it towards the end of the cooking process to prevent overcooking.
This soup can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
Adjust the amount of lemon juice and mint according to your taste preference. Some like it tangy and herby, while others prefer it milder.
If you prefer a thicker soup, you can blend a portion of it before adding the lemon juice and mint.