Asharbal Leebiya

Asharbal Leebiya Recipe from Libya - Ingredients: Butter, Salt, Onion, Lamb, Chilli Pepper, Tomato, Mint

Region / culture: Libya | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 1 hour and 10 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Asharbal Leebiya is a traditional Libyan dish that is rich in flavors and history. This savory recipe combines tender meat with a blend of aromatic spices, herbs, and a unique ingredient, sharbat lisanil osfoor, to create a comforting and hearty meal. Perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in, Asharbal Leebiya is not just a dish but an experience that brings a piece of Libyan culture to your table.

History

The origins of Asharbal Leebiya can be traced back to the diverse culinary traditions of Libya. Influenced by Mediterranean, African, and Arab cuisines, Libyan food is known for its flavorful and hearty dishes. Asharbal Leebiya, in particular, has been passed down through generations, with each adding their own touch to the recipe. This dish reflects the rich cultural heritage and the blend of spices and ingredients unique to the region.

Ingredients

1 tbsp of butter or olive oil
0.5 tsp of salt
1 onion
0.5 tsp of bzaar
0.5 lb of lamb meat with some bones
0.5 tsp of chili pepper
2 tbsp of tomato paste
4 tbsp of sharbat lisanil osfoor
cilantro
dry mint

How to prepare

Heat the oil in a frying pan over low heat. Add the onion and meat, and fry until they change color. Stir in the tomato paste, spices, and 3 cups of water. Allow it to cook for an hour. Then, add the pasta, cilantro, and mint, and let it simmer for 10 minutes over low heat.

Variations

For a vegetarian version, substitute the meat with chickpeas or lentils.
Add vegetables like carrots or potatoes for a more filling dish.
Use different types of meat, such as chicken or lamb, for variation.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure the best flavor and texture for your Asharbal Leebiya, consider these tips:

- Use high-quality olive oil for frying to enhance the taste.

- Browning the meat and onions well at the beginning will add depth to the dish.

- Allow the dish to simmer slowly to tenderize the meat and meld the flavors together.

- Adjust the amount of chili pepper to suit your preferred level of spiciness.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Asharbal Leebiya hot, garnished with fresh cilantro and a sprinkle of dry mint for an extra burst of flavor. It pairs well with a side of flatbread or rice to soak up the delicious sauce.

Cooking Techniques

Slow simmering is key to developing the flavors in Asharbal Leebiya. Using a heavy-bottomed pot will ensure even cooking and prevent burning.

Ingredient Substitutions

If sharbat lisanil osfoor is unavailable, a mixture of lemon juice and honey can be used as a substitute.

- Bzaar spice blend can be replaced with a mix of cumin, coriander, and paprika.

Make Ahead Tips

Asharbal Leebiya can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, allowing the flavors to meld together even more. Reheat gently before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve in a traditional clay pot or a deep serving dish, garnished with fresh herbs. Accompany with lemon wedges for a fresh contrast to the rich flavors.

Pairing Recommendations

A light, crisp salad or a simple cucumber yogurt salad complements the richness of Asharbal Leebiya well. For drinks, consider a mint tea or a refreshing lemonade.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a little water if necessary to prevent drying out.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A single serving of Asharbal Leebiya contains approximately 300-400 calories, making it a hearty and satisfying meal that can fit into a balanced diet.

Carbohydrates

A serving of Asharbal Leebiya contains approximately 20-30 grams of carbohydrates. The primary sources of carbohydrates in this dish are the tomato paste and the small amount of pasta. Carbohydrates are essential for energy, so this dish can be a good part of a balanced diet.

Fats

The fats in Asharbal Leebiya come mainly from the olive oil and the meat. A serving typically contains about 10-15 grams of fat, depending on the cut of meat used. Olive oil is a healthy source of monounsaturated fats, which are beneficial for heart health.

Proteins

This dish is a good source of protein, providing about 20-25 grams per serving. The protein comes from the meat, making it an excellent option for maintaining muscle mass and overall health.

Vitamins and minerals

Asharbal Leebiya is rich in vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin A from the tomato paste, iron and zinc from the meat, and various B vitamins. The herbs and spices also contribute to the nutritional value, offering antioxidants and anti-inflammatory benefits.

Alergens

This recipe contains no common allergens like nuts, dairy, or gluten (if gluten-free pasta is used). However, it's always important to check the ingredients for potential allergens based on individual sensitivities.

Summary

Overall, Asharbal Leebiya is a nutritious dish that provides a good balance of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, along with essential vitamins and minerals. It's a hearty meal that can be enjoyed as part of a healthy diet.

Summary

Asharbal Leebiya is a traditional Libyan dish that offers a rich tapestry of flavors and textures. With its combination of tender meat, aromatic spices, and unique ingredients, it's a hearty and nutritious meal that brings the warmth of Libyan hospitality to your table. Whether you're exploring new cuisines or revisiting familiar flavors, Asharbal Leebiya is sure to satisfy.

How did I get this recipe?

The moment I found this recipe is etched in my memory forever. It was a hot summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Fatima in her cozy kitchen. As we sat sipping on sweet tea, she suddenly pulled out an old, worn-out recipe book from her cupboard. With a mischievous twinkle in her eye, she handed me the book and said, "I have something special to share with you today."

I eagerly flipped through the pages, my heart racing with excitement. And there it was, the recipe for Asharbal Leebiya, a traditional dish from Fatima's homeland in Syria. The name alone sounded exotic and enchanting to me. I had never heard of it before, but I knew right then and there that I had to learn how to make it.

Fatima explained that Asharbal Leebiya is a dish made with vermicelli noodles, ground beef, tomato sauce, and a medley of warm spices. It is a comforting and hearty meal that is perfect for family gatherings or special occasions. As she read out the ingredients and instructions, I felt a wave of nostalgia wash over me. It reminded me of the dishes my own grandmother used to make back in our village in Lebanon.

I asked Fatima where she had learned this recipe, and she shared a heartwarming story from her childhood. She told me that her grandmother used to make Asharbal Leebiya for her and her siblings during the cold winter months. It was a dish that brought warmth and comfort to their home, filling the air with the aroma of spices and love.

As Fatima demonstrated how to make the dish, I watched intently, taking in every step and technique. She showed me how to toast the vermicelli until it turned golden brown, infusing it with a nutty flavor. She taught me how to brown the ground beef with onions and garlic, creating a rich and savory base for the dish. And she guided me through the process of simmering the tomato sauce with a blend of spices, allowing the flavors to meld together harmoniously.

After a few hours of cooking and stirring, the Asharbal Leebiya was finally ready. Fatima scooped out a generous portion onto a plate and handed it to me with a warm smile. I took a bite, and instantly, I was transported back to my grandmother's kitchen, surrounded by the sights and sounds of home.

The flavors of the dish were a symphony of spices and textures, each bite bursting with warmth and nostalgia. The vermicelli noodles were tender and fragrant, the ground beef was savory and satisfying, and the tomato sauce was tangy and comforting. It was a dish that spoke to my soul, reminding me of the simple joys of family, food, and tradition.

As I savored the last bite of Asharbal Leebiya, I felt a deep sense of gratitude towards Fatima for sharing this recipe with me. It was more than just a dish; it was a connection to my roots, a link to the past, and a promise of future memories to come. And as I thanked her for the culinary gift she had given me, I knew that this recipe would become a cherished part of my own culinary repertoire, passed down through the generations for years to come.