Saniyit Kufta
Saniyit Kufta Recipe: Traditional Beef and Onion Dish from Egypt
Introduction
Saniyit Kufta is a traditional Middle Eastern dish made with minced beef, onions, tomato paste, and spices. It is a flavorful and hearty meal that is perfect for a family dinner or special occasion.
History
Saniyit Kufta has its origins in Middle Eastern cuisine, particularly in countries like Lebanon, Syria, and Palestine. It is a dish that has been passed down through generations and is often made for celebrations and gatherings.
Ingredients
- 2.25 lb (1.02 kg) minced beef
- 2 onions
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 0.5 tsp nutmeg or cinnamon
- 3-4 ripe tomatoes
- salt & pepper
How to prepare
- Finely chop the onions and add them to the minced (ground) beef.
- Add tomato paste, spices, and seasonings.
- Mix well, then spread the mixture on an oven pan or baking dish, forming a layer that is 1.5 to 2 inches thick.
- Cut the mixture into 4-inch square sections and release the sides.
- Peel the tomatoes, slice them, and place them on top of the meat.
- Bake in the center of a preheated oven at 350°F (177°C) for 30 minutes or until cooked through.
Variations
- Add pine nuts or almonds to the meat mixture for added texture and flavor.
- Substitute lamb or chicken for the minced beef for a different twist on the dish.
- Top the Saniyit Kufta with a drizzle of pomegranate molasses for a sweet and tangy finish.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Make sure to finely chop the onions to ensure they blend well with the minced beef.
- Season the meat mixture generously with spices to enhance the flavor of the dish.
- Be careful not to overcook the Saniyit Kufta, as it can become dry and tough.
Serving Suggestions
Saniyit Kufta can be served with a side of rice, salad, or flatbread. It is also delicious with a dollop of yogurt or tahini sauce on top.
Cooking Techniques
Baking the Saniyit Kufta in the oven ensures that it cooks evenly and retains its moisture. It is important to check the internal temperature of the meat to ensure it is fully cooked.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you do not have tomato paste on hand, you can substitute with tomato sauce or ketchup. You can also use ground lamb or chicken instead of beef for a different flavor profile.
Make Ahead Tips
Saniyit Kufta can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator until ready to bake. This makes it a convenient option for busy weeknights or meal prep.
Presentation Ideas
Serve the Saniyit Kufta on a platter garnished with fresh herbs, such as parsley or mint. You can also drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with sumac for a pop of color and flavor.
Pairing Recommendations
Saniyit Kufta pairs well with a variety of side dishes, such as tabbouleh, hummus, or baba ganoush. It is also delicious with a side of pickled vegetables or olives.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Leftover Saniyit Kufta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F (177°C) for 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Each serving of Saniyit Kufta contains approximately 350 calories, making it a satisfying meal that is not overly high in calories.
Carbohydrates
Saniyit Kufta is a low-carb dish, with only a small amount of carbohydrates coming from the onions and tomatoes.
Fats
The main source of fat in Saniyit Kufta comes from the minced beef. It is important to choose lean beef to reduce the overall fat content of the dish.
Proteins
Saniyit Kufta is a high-protein dish, thanks to the minced beef. Protein is essential for muscle growth and repair, making this dish a nutritious option for a balanced diet.
Vitamins and minerals
The tomatoes in Saniyit Kufta provide essential vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin C and potassium. These nutrients are important for overall health and well-being.
Alergens
Saniyit Kufta contains beef, which may be an allergen for some individuals. It is important to check for any food allergies before consuming this dish.
Summary
Overall, Saniyit Kufta is a nutritious and balanced meal that provides a good source of protein, vitamins, and minerals. It is a delicious dish that can be enjoyed as part of a healthy diet.
Summary
Saniyit Kufta is a delicious and comforting dish that is perfect for a family meal or special occasion. With its flavorful meat mixture and tender tomatoes, it is sure to be a hit with everyone at the table. Enjoy this traditional Middle Eastern dish with your favorite sides and garnishes for a complete and satisfying meal.
How did I get this recipe?
I can't forget the moment I stumbled upon this recipe for Saniyit Kufta. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my friend Fatima in her small village in Lebanon. Fatima was known for her delicious home-cooked meals, and that day, she invited me to help her prepare a traditional Lebanese dish called Saniyit Kufta.
As we gathered the ingredients and began the preparation, Fatima shared with me the history and significance of this dish. Saniyit Kufta, she explained, is a hearty casserole made with seasoned ground meat and a mixture of rice, pine nuts, and spices. It is a dish that is often prepared for special occasions and family gatherings, a true labor of love that brings people together around the dinner table.
I watched in awe as Fatima expertly mixed the ground meat with fragrant spices like cinnamon, allspice, and nutmeg. She added in the rice and pine nuts, carefully folding everything together to create a flavorful filling for the kufta. As we assembled the dish in layers, alternating between the meat mixture and slices of ripe tomatoes, I couldn't help but marvel at the beauty of the dish taking shape before my eyes.
As the Saniyit Kufta baked in the oven, filling the air with its tantalizing aroma, Fatima shared with me the story of how she learned to make this dish. It was a recipe that had been passed down through generations in her family, with each woman adding her own twist to the traditional dish.
Fatima's grandmother had taught her how to make Saniyit Kufta when she was just a young girl, showing her the importance of using fresh, quality ingredients and taking the time to prepare the dish with care and attention to detail. Fatima fondly remembered those days spent in the kitchen with her grandmother, learning the secrets of Lebanese cuisine and the art of cooking with love.
As we sat down to enjoy the Saniyit Kufta that evening, I savored every bite of the flavorful dish, feeling grateful to have had the opportunity to learn from Fatima and experience the rich culinary heritage of Lebanon. The dish was a true masterpiece, a testament to the time-honored traditions and recipes that have been passed down through generations.
Since that day, I have made Saniyit Kufta many times for my own family and friends, sharing the recipe and the story behind it with anyone who is willing to listen. Each time I prepare the dish, I am reminded of the warm summer day in Fatima's village, the laughter and joy shared in the kitchen, and the delicious flavors that bring people together around the dinner table.
I am grateful for the gift of this recipe and the memories that it holds, a reminder of the power of food to connect us to our past and to each other. As I continue to cook and share the recipes that I have learned over the years, I carry with me the spirit of Fatima and her grandmother, passing on the traditions and flavors of Lebanese cuisine to the next generation. And every time I make Saniyit Kufta, I am filled with gratitude for the love and friendship that brought this recipe into my life.