Lablabi

Lablabi

Lablabi is a traditional Tunisian dish that is popularly consumed as a breakfast or a light meal. It is a hearty and flavorful soup made from chickpeas and a variety of spices. Lablabi is known for its simplicity and versatility, as it can be customized with different toppings and accompaniments based on personal preferences.

Ingredients

To prepare lablabi, you will need the following ingredients:

• 2 cups of dried chickpeas
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• 1 teaspoon of ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon of ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon of paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Water for cooking

Preparation

1. Start by soaking the dried chickpeas overnight in water. This will help soften them and reduce the cooking time.

2. Drain the soaked chickpeas and rinse them thoroughly.

3. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until they become translucent and fragrant.

4. Add the soaked chickpeas to the pot, along with the ground cumin, ground coriander, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well to coat the chickpeas with the spices.

5. Pour enough water into the pot to cover the chickpeas completely. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until the chickpeas are tender and easily mashed.

6. Once the chickpeas are cooked, use a potato masher or the back of a spoon to mash some of the chickpeas in the pot. This will help thicken the soup and create a creamy texture.

7. Taste the lablabi and adjust the seasoning if needed. You can add more spices, salt, or pepper according to your taste preferences.

8. Serve the lablabi hot in bowls, garnished with your choice of toppings. Some popular toppings include chopped parsley, chopped onions, capers, olives, and a drizzle of olive oil.

Serving Suggestions

Lablabi is often enjoyed with crusty bread or baguette slices, which are perfect for dipping into the flavorful soup. It can also be served with a side of harissa, a spicy Tunisian chili paste, for those who prefer an extra kick of heat.

Variations

Lablabi can be customized with various toppings and accompaniments to suit different tastes. Some common variations include:

• Lablabi with poached eggs: Top the soup with poached eggs for a protein-rich twist.
• Lablabi with tuna: Add canned tuna to the soup for an additional source of protein and a burst of flavor.
• Lablabi with vegetables: Include diced vegetables such as carrots, potatoes, or zucchini to make the soup more filling and nutritious.