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Ethiopian Spiced Chicken Soup (Doro Shorba)

Yields4 ServingsPrep Time20 minsCook Time45 minsTotal Time1 hr 5 mins

Doro Shorba is a comforting and aromatic Ethiopian soup made with tender chicken, simmered in a fragrant broth seasoned with berbere spice, garlic, and ginger. It’s hearty, gently spicy, and often garnished with a touch of yogurt and fresh herbs for a burst of creaminess and freshness.

Ethiopian Spiced Chicken Soup (Doro Shorba)

For the Soup
 2 tbsp vegetable oil or niter kibbeh (Ethiopian spiced clarified butter)
 1 medium onion, finely chopped
 3 cloves garlic, minced
 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
 1 tbsp berbere spice mix
 2 medium tomatoes, peeled and chopped
 6 cups chicken broth (low-sodium preferred)
 2 bone-in chicken thighs, skin removed
 1 medium carrot, diced
 1 medium potato, diced
 Salt and pepper to taste
 Plain yogurt (for garnish)
 Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
 Lemon wedges (optional, for serving)
Sauté the Aromatics
1

Heat the oil or niter kibbeh in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5–6 minutes. Stir in the garlic and ginger and cook for another minute.

Add Spices & Tomatoes
2

Add the berbere spice and stir for 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in the tomatoes and cook until they break down and create a thick base, about 5 minutes.

Simmer the Soup
3

Pour in the chicken broth. Add the chicken thighs, diced carrots, and potatoes. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cover and cook for 30–35 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and vegetables are tender.

Shred the Chicken
4

Remove the chicken thighs, shred the meat off the bone, and return the meat to the pot. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve
5

Ladle the soup into bowls. Top with a swirl of yogurt and a sprinkle of chopped cilantro or parsley. Serve hot with lemon wedges on the side, if desired.

Serving Suggestions
6

Pair with warm injera or crusty bread. This soup also makes a beautiful starter for an Ethiopian-inspired dinner.

Nutrition Facts

4 servings

Serving size