How to make it
5 steps. Take it one step at a time.
Rinse the cracked freekeh under cold water several times
Rinse the cracked freekeh under cold water several times until the water runs clear. Soak it in warm water for about 15 minutes, then drain thoroughly.
15 minHeat the olive oil
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 5 minutes until translucent. Add the minced garlic and cubed chicken breast, cooking until the chicken is browned on all sides.
8 minStir in the drained freekeh, ground cumin, and cinnamon
Stir in the drained freekeh, ground cumin, and cinnamon. Toast the grains with the meat and aromatics for 2 minutes to enhance the smoky flavor.
2 minPour in the chicken broth
Pour in the chicken broth and season with salt and black pepper. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 30-35 minutes, or until the freekeh is tender and the soup has thickened slightly.
35 minTaste and adjust seasoning
Taste and adjust seasoning. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.
A little kitchen wisdom
Freekeh is harvested while the wheat is still green and then roasted, giving it a unique smoky flavor. You can make this vegetarian by omitting the chicken and using vegetable broth.
