Meat Soup or Fatta
Meat Soup or Fatta Recipe from Egypt
Introduction
Meat Soup or Fatta is a traditional Middle Eastern dish that is hearty, flavorful, and perfect for a comforting meal. This recipe combines tender lamb, flavorful broth, crispy Arabic bread, and fluffy rice for a delicious and satisfying dish.
History
Meat Soup or Fatta has been a staple in Middle Eastern cuisine for centuries. It is a dish that is often served during special occasions and celebrations, as it is considered a symbol of hospitality and generosity.
Ingredients
How to prepare
- To make the broth, simmer the meat in water with salt, pepper, and a whole onion until the meat is tender. Skim off any froth and discard the onion. Remove the meat with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. Set aside.
- In a frying pan, melt 2 tbsp of butter. Fry the meat over high heat until well browned, then transfer to a serving bowl and keep warm.
- Fry the garlic in the remaining butter until golden brown. Stir the contents of the frying pan and the vinegar into the broth, then bring to a boil.
- Just before serving, break up the bread into the soup, then divide into individual bowls. Serve the meat and rice separately, allowing each person to serve themselves.
Variations
- Substitute lamb with beef or chicken for a different flavor.
- Add chickpeas or vegetables to the broth for added texture and nutrition.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Be sure to skim off any froth that forms while simmering the meat to ensure a clear and flavorful broth.
- Browning the meat before adding it to the broth adds depth of flavor to the dish.
- Drying the Arabic bread in the oven until crisp helps it hold up well in the soup without becoming soggy.
Serving Suggestions
Meat Soup or Fatta can be served with a side of yogurt or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Cooking Techniques
Simmering the meat in water with salt and pepper helps to tenderize the meat and infuse flavor into the broth.
- Browning the meat before adding it to the broth adds depth of flavor to the dish.
Ingredient Substitutions
Use vegetable broth instead of water for a vegetarian version of the dish.
- Substitute olive oil for butter for a healthier option.
Make Ahead Tips
Meat Soup or Fatta can be made ahead of time and reheated before serving. Store the broth, meat, and rice separately to prevent the bread from becoming soggy.
Presentation Ideas
Serve Meat Soup or Fatta in individual bowls, with the meat and rice arranged neatly on a platter for a beautiful presentation.
Pairing Recommendations
Meat Soup or Fatta pairs well with a side of pickles, olives, or a tangy salad for a balanced meal.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store any leftovers of Meat Soup or Fatta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a saucepan over low heat until warmed through.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Each serving of Meat Soup or Fatta contains approximately 350 calories.
Carbohydrates
Each serving of Meat Soup or Fatta contains approximately 45 grams of carbohydrates.
Fats
Each serving of Meat Soup or Fatta contains approximately 15 grams of fats.
Proteins
Each serving of Meat Soup or Fatta contains approximately 25 grams of proteins.
Vitamins and minerals
Meat Soup or Fatta is a good source of iron, zinc, and B vitamins.
Alergens
This recipe contains wheat (Arabic bread) and may contain dairy (butter). Please check for allergens before consuming.
Summary
Meat Soup or Fatta is a balanced dish that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, along with essential vitamins and minerals.
Summary
Meat Soup or Fatta is a delicious and comforting dish that is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in. With tender lamb, flavorful broth, crispy bread, and fluffy rice, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy!
How did I get this recipe?
The first time I saw this recipe, I was immediately drawn to it. It was a cold winter day and I was visiting my friend Maryam, who lived in the neighboring village. As soon as I walked into her cozy kitchen, I was enveloped in the warm, inviting aroma of simmering spices and savory meats. Maryam was busy stirring a large pot on the stove, and I couldn't help but ask her what she was making.
"Oh, this is my family's recipe for Meat Soup, or Fatta," she explained with a smile. "It's a traditional dish that we make during the winter months to warm our bodies and souls."
I watched as Maryam expertly added a mixture of lamb, beef, and chicken to the pot, along with a medley of fragrant spices like cinnamon, cardamom, and cloves. She then poured in a rich broth made from simmering bones for hours on end, infusing the soup with depth and complexity.
As the soup simmered away, Maryam shared with me the story of how she learned to make Fatta. She told me that the recipe had been passed down through generations in her family, with each woman adding her own twist to the dish. Maryam herself had learned the art of making Fatta from her grandmother, who was a renowned cook in their village.
I listened intently as Maryam recounted the hours she had spent in her grandmother's kitchen, watching and learning as she prepared meals with love and care. She spoke of the laughter and camaraderie that filled the air, as women gathered around to share stories and recipes, creating a sense of community and connection that transcended generations.
As the soup continued to simmer, Maryam invited me to help her prepare the garnishes for the Fatta. We chopped fresh parsley, cilantro, and garlic, and toasted pita bread until it was golden and crispy. Finally, Maryam ladled the piping hot soup into bowls and topped it with a dollop of tangy yogurt, a sprinkle of toasted nuts, and a drizzle of fragrant olive oil.
The first spoonful of Fatta was a revelation. The tender meat melted in my mouth, infused with the warm spices and savory broth. The crunch of the toasted pita and the freshness of the herbs added layers of texture and flavor, creating a harmonious balance that was truly extraordinary.
As I savored each bite of the Meat Soup, I felt a sense of connection to the past and to the women who had come before me. I realized that recipes like Fatta were more than just a list of ingredients and instructions – they were a link to our heritage, a way of preserving traditions and passing them on to future generations.
From that day on, I made it a point to learn as much as I could from Maryam and other women in my community who were keepers of traditional recipes. I spent hours in their kitchens, absorbing their wisdom and techniques, and adding my own flair to the dishes they shared with me.
Now, whenever I make Fatta for my own family and friends, I do so with a sense of pride and reverence for the women who came before me. I know that with each batch of Meat Soup that I simmer on the stove, I am not just creating a delicious meal – I am keeping alive a tradition that has sustained and nourished us for generations. And for that, I am truly grateful.
Categories
| Beef Recipes | Egyptian Recipes | Egyptian Soups | Lamb Recipes | Rice Recipes |