Dawood Basha

Introduction

History

Dawood Basha is a popular dish in Lebanon and other Middle Eastern countries. It is named after Dawood Basha, a famous Ottoman governor who was known for his love of good food. The dish has been passed down through generations and is a staple in many households.

Ingredients

How to prepare

Variations

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to finely mince the meat to ensure tender and juicy meatballs.

- Grate the onion to add moisture and flavor to the meat mixture.

- Fry the onions until they are soft and caramelized for added depth of flavor.

- Be sure to cook the meatballs on low heat to prevent them from drying out.

- The pomegranate juice adds a tangy and sweet flavor to the dish, so adjust the amount to suit your taste.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Dawood Basha hot with a side of rice or flatbread. Garnish with fresh parsley or mint for added freshness.

Cooking Techniques

Shape the meatballs evenly to ensure they cook at the same rate.

- Use a non-stick pan to prevent the meatballs from sticking.

- Cover the pan while cooking to trap the steam and cook the meatballs evenly.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use olive oil instead of butter for a healthier option.

- Substitute ground cumin for allspice for a different flavor profile.

- Use beef broth instead of water for added richness.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the meat mixture and shape the meatballs ahead of time. Store them in the refrigerator until ready to cook.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Dawood Basha in a decorative serving dish garnished with pomegranate seeds and fresh herbs. Pair with a colorful salad for a complete meal.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Dawood Basha with a side of tabbouleh salad, hummus, and warm pita bread for a Middle Eastern feast. Serve with a glass of red wine or mint tea.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Calories: 300 per serving

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates: 10g per serving

Fats

Total Fat: 15g per serving

Saturated Fat: 6g per serving

Proteins

Protein: 25g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

Iron: 2mg per serving

Vitamin C: 5mg per serving

Alergens

Contains: Dairy

Summary

Dawood Basha is a protein-rich dish that is moderate in carbohydrates and fats. It is a good source of iron and vitamin C.

Summary

Dawood Basha is a delicious and comforting dish that is perfect for a family meal or special occasion. With its flavorful meatballs and tangy pomegranate sauce, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of discovering this recipe for the first time is a cherished one. It all began many years ago, when I was just a young girl living in a small village in Lebanon. My mother would often take me to the bustling market in the city, where we would wander through the colorful stalls filled with fresh fruits, vegetables, and spices.

One day, as we were making our way through the market, we came across a vendor selling the most delicious smelling meatballs I had ever encountered. The aroma of garlic, spices, and simmering tomato sauce filled the air, and I knew I had to try them. My mother purchased a few of the meatballs, which the vendor called "Dawood Basha," and we brought them home to enjoy.

As soon as I took my first bite of the tender meatballs, I was hooked. The flavors were unlike anything I had ever tasted before – a perfect blend of savory meat, tangy tomatoes, and aromatic herbs and spices. I begged my mother to ask the vendor for the recipe, and after much convincing, she was able to get it from him.

The vendor, who had learned the recipe from his own grandmother, was kind enough to share it with us. He explained that Dawood Basha was a traditional Lebanese dish made with ground beef, onions, garlic, and a rich tomato sauce. The secret, he said, was in the spices – a mix of cinnamon, allspice, and nutmeg that added depth and complexity to the dish.

I couldn't wait to try making Dawood Basha at home, so my mother and I gathered the ingredients and set to work in the kitchen. We sautéed onions and garlic until they were soft and fragrant, then added the ground beef and shaped it into small meatballs. We browned the meatballs in a hot pan, then simmered them in a tomato sauce seasoned with the traditional spices.

As the meatballs cooked, the aroma filled our home, bringing back memories of the bustling market and the kind vendor who had shared his recipe with us. When the Dawood Basha was finally ready, we couldn't wait to dig in. The meatballs were tender and flavorful, the sauce rich and tangy – it was a dish that brought together all the best flavors of Lebanon in one delicious bite.

From that day on, Dawood Basha became a staple in our household. I would make it for family gatherings, dinner parties, and any time I wanted to share a taste of my heritage with others. Over the years, I added my own twist to the recipe, experimenting with different spices and ingredients to make it truly my own.

Now, as a grandmother myself, I continue to make Dawood Basha for my own family and friends. The recipe has been passed down through generations, each cook adding their own touch to make it special. And every time I make it, I think back to that day in the market, when I first discovered the magic of this delectable dish.

Dawood Basha will always hold a special place in my heart – a reminder of my roots, my heritage, and the joy of cooking and sharing delicious food with those I love. And I hope that one day, my grandchildren will carry on the tradition, making their own memories with this cherished recipe.

Categories

| Allspice Recipes | Lebanese Meat Dishes | Lebanese Recipes | Mint Recipes | Pomegranate Recipes | Rice Recipes |

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