Adas bi Haamud

Adas bi Haamud Recipe - A Flavorful Dish from Kuwait & Switzerland

Region / culture: Kuwait, Switzerland | Preparation time: overnight | Cooking time: 18 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Adas bi Haamud is a traditional Lebanese dish that is both hearty and healthy. This comforting meal is made primarily from lentils and swiss chard, flavored with lemon juice, garlic, and olive oil, creating a rich blend of tangy and savory tastes. It's a perfect example of Mediterranean cuisine, where simplicity meets nutrition and flavor. This recipe guide will walk you through the steps to create this delicious dish, along with providing insights into its history, nutritional information, and various tips to enhance your cooking experience.

History

The origins of Adas bi Haamud can be traced back to the Levantine region, where lentils have been a staple ingredient for thousands of years. This dish is a testament to the ingenuity of traditional cooks who created nourishing meals with the ingredients readily available to them. Lentils, being a significant source of protein, were often used in meals to provide sustenance. Over time, Adas bi Haamud has become a beloved dish in Lebanese households, especially appreciated for its comforting warmth during colder months.

Ingredients

1.5 cups of lentils
2.5 cups of swiss chard leaves
0.75 cups of chopped onions
0.75 cups of olive oil
1 bunch of green kizbara (coriander) or 1 stalk of celery
5 garlic cloves
1.5 tsp of salt
0.75 cups of lemon juice (or to taste)
1 tsp of flour

How to prepare

Wash the lentils well and leave them to drain overnight. Wash them again in the morning and pick out any impurities.
Cook the lentils with enough water to cover them in a pressure cooker for 10 minutes.
Open the pressure cooker and add the chopped chard leaves along with a cup of water. Cook under pressure for another 8 minutes.
Meanwhile, fry the onions in olive oil until they are golden brown.
Crush the garlic with salt and add it to the fried onions.
Wash and chop the kizbara or celery.
Add the chopped kizbara or celery to the onions, chard, and lentil mixture. Stir well.
Mix lemon juice with one teaspoon of flour to thicken the sauce, and add it to the mixture.
Let the mixture simmer until it reaches a thick soup-like consistency.
Add seasonings according to taste.
Serve the dish hot.

Variations

While the traditional recipe is beloved by many, you can experiment with variations such as adding potatoes, carrots, or tomatoes to the mix. For a spicier version, include a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes.
1. For a spicier version, add a teaspoon of cumin or a pinch of red pepper flakes.
2. You can substitute spinach for swiss chard if preferred.
3. Add diced tomatoes for a richer sauce and a hint of sweetness.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

1. Soaking the lentils overnight will significantly reduce cooking time and make them easier to digest.

2. Use fresh swiss chard for the best flavor and texture. The leaves should be bright green and free from any yellow spots.

3. Adjust the amount of lemon juice according to your taste. Start with the recommended amount and add more if you prefer a tangier flavor.

4. To achieve a golden color and sweet flavor, caramelize the onions well before adding them to the lentils.

5. The flour and lemon juice mixture not only thickens the sauce but also prevents the lemon juice from curdling.

Serving Suggestions

Adas bi Haamud can be served as a main dish, accompanied by a side of rice or a slice of crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. A fresh salad or pickled vegetables would complement the flavors and add a refreshing contrast.

Cooking Techniques

Pressure cooking the lentils and swiss chard not only saves time but also helps to infuse the flavors more deeply. However, if you don't have a pressure cooker, you can simmer the ingredients on the stove, adjusting the cooking time accordingly.

Ingredient Substitutions

1. If olive oil is not available, any neutral vegetable oil can be used, though the flavor profile will change slightly.

2. Lemon juice can be substituted with vinegar for a different kind of acidity, though lemon juice is recommended for authenticity.

Make Ahead Tips

Adas bi Haamud can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld and develop over time, often making leftovers taste even better.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Adas bi Haamud in a deep bowl, garnished with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of chopped parsley or cilantro for a pop of color and freshness. A lemon wedge on the side allows guests to adjust the acidity to their liking.

Pairing Recommendations

A crisp, dry white wine or a light-bodied red wine pairs beautifully with the flavors of Adas bi Haamud. For a non-alcoholic option, a sparkling lemonade or mint-infused water complements the dish well.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To reheat, simply warm the dish over low heat on the stove, adding a little water if necessary to thin the sauce. Avoid microwaving, as this can alter the texture of the lentils and swiss chard.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A serving of Adas bi Haamud contains approximately 350 calories, making it a nutritious and satisfying meal option that can fit into a balanced diet.

Carbohydrates

A serving of Adas bi Haamud provides a good source of complex carbohydrates, primarily from the lentils and swiss chard. Lentils are particularly rich in dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and helps maintain blood sugar levels. A single serving contains approximately 40 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

This dish is relatively low in saturated fats, with the primary source of fat coming from olive oil, which is rich in monounsaturated fats. These are known to be heart-healthy fats that can help lower bad cholesterol levels. A serving contains about 14 grams of fat, most of which are healthy fats.

Proteins

Lentils are an excellent source of plant-based protein, making Adas bi Haamud a great option for vegetarians and vegans. A single serving of this dish provides approximately 18 grams of protein, contributing significantly to daily protein requirements.

Vitamins and minerals

Adas bi Haamud is rich in vitamins and minerals, thanks to the swiss chard and lentils. Swiss chard is a great source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as minerals like magnesium and iron. Lentils contribute B vitamins, including folate, and minerals such as zinc and potassium.

Alergens

This recipe is naturally free from common allergens such as gluten, dairy, and nuts, making it suitable for individuals with these dietary restrictions. However, those with specific food sensitivities should always check individual ingredient labels.

Summary

Overall, Adas bi Haamud is a nutritionally balanced dish, providing a good mix of carbohydrates, proteins, and healthy fats, along with a variety of vitamins and minerals. It's a wholesome meal that supports overall health.

Summary

Adas bi Haamud is a flavorful, nutritious dish that showcases the best of Lebanese cuisine. With its rich history and simple ingredients, it's a testament to the power of traditional cooking to create meals that are both satisfying and healthy. Whether you're a seasoned cook or new to Lebanese food, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of discovering this recipe for the first time is a happy memory. It all started when I was a young girl, eager to learn the art of cooking from my grandmother. She was a master in the kitchen and had a vast collection of recipes that she had gathered over the years.

One day, as we were going through her old recipe books, she came across a recipe for Adas bi Haamud. I had never heard of this dish before, but my grandmother told me that it was a traditional Middle Eastern lentil soup that was not only delicious but also very nutritious.

She explained to me that the name Adas bi Haamud literally translates to "lentils with lemon" in Arabic. The dish is made with red lentils, onions, garlic, cumin, and of course, plenty of fresh lemon juice. It sounded like the perfect comfort food for a cold winter day.

My grandmother told me that she had learned this recipe from a dear friend who had spent many years living in the Middle East. She had perfected the recipe over time and it had become a family favorite. I was intrigued and eager to learn how to make it myself.

As we gathered the ingredients and started cooking, my grandmother shared stories of her time spent in the kitchen with her friend, learning all about the flavors and techniques of Middle Eastern cuisine. I listened intently, soaking up every detail and trying to commit it to memory.

The aroma of the lentils simmering on the stove filled the kitchen, making my mouth water in anticipation. Finally, the soup was ready and we sat down to enjoy a steaming bowl of Adas bi Haamud together. The first spoonful was pure heaven - tangy, savory, and oh so comforting.

From that day on, Adas bi Haamud became a staple in our household. I would often make it for my family, who would always eagerly devour every last drop. The recipe was passed down through the generations, with each cook adding their own twist to it.

Over the years, I have made this dish countless times, always with a sense of nostalgia for that first time I learned to make it with my grandmother. The memories of that day have stayed with me, reminding me of the joy of cooking and the bond that food can create between loved ones.

Now, as I pass on this recipe to you, I hope that you will cherish it as much as I have. May it bring you warmth and comfort, and may you always remember the happy memory of discovering it for the first time. Enjoy!