Lamb with potatoes and coriander

Lahmeh Beajin and Batata Bi Kezbera – An Unforgettable Lebanese Delicacy

When it comes to Lebanese cuisine, we cannot help but be carried away by the rich aromas and ingredient combinations that delight both the eyes and the taste buds. Today, I invite you to discover a delicious and easy-to-make recipe: Lahmeh Beajin, a savory meat pie, accompanied by Batata Bi Kezbera, a tasty potato side dish with coriander. Get ready to enrich your culinary knowledge and bring a touch of the Middle East to your table!

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 25-30 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Servings: 4-6

Recipe History

Lahmeh Beajin is a traditional recipe that has been prepared for generations in Lebanese kitchens. This meat pie is often served at festive meals or special occasions, symbolizing Lebanese hospitality. Each family adds a personal touch, but the base remains the same: a combination of beef or lamb, aromatic spices, and a crispy dough. Batata Bi Kezbera, on the other hand, is a side dish that perfectly complements this dish, bringing a fresh and aromatic note thanks to the coriander.

Ingredients for Lahmeh Beajin

For the dough:
- 250 g flour
- 100 ml warm water
- 50 ml olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon baking powder

For the filling:
- 300 g minced meat (beef or lamb)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon 7 spice mix (or a combination of cinnamon, cloves, cumin, black pepper, coriander, nutmeg, chili)
- 1 large tomato, peeled and diced
- 50 g tomato paste
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley, chopped

Ingredients for Batata Bi Kezbera
- 500 g potatoes, peeled and diced
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 bunch of fresh coriander, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Juice of 1 lemon

Preparing Lahmeh Beajin

1. Prepare the dough: In a large bowl, combine the flour, salt, and baking powder. Add the olive oil and mix well. Gradually add the warm water, mixing until you get a smooth dough. Cover it with a damp towel and let it rest for 15 minutes.

2. Prepare the filling: In a skillet, heat a little olive oil and add the onion. Sauté until it becomes translucent, then add the garlic. Cook for another minute, then add the minced meat. Brown the meat well, stirring occasionally.

3. Add the spices: Once the meat is cooked, add the tomato, tomato paste, 7 spice mix, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture simmer on low heat for 10 minutes, then add the chopped parsley. Mix well and remove from heat.

4. Assemble the pie: Preheat the oven to 180°C. Divide the dough into two equal parts. Roll out the first part on a floured surface until you get a thin sheet. Place the sheet in a tart pan, pressing gently on the bottom and edges. Pour the meat filling and distribute it evenly.

5. Cover the pie: Roll out the second part of the dough, then cut it into strips and place them over the filling, forming a lattice pattern. You can brush a little olive oil on top for a golden crust.

6. Bake: Place the tart in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the pie is golden and crispy.

Preparing Batata Bi Kezbera

1. Boil the potatoes: In a large pot, add the diced potatoes and cover them with water. Boil until they become soft, about 10-15 minutes, then drain.

2. Fry the potatoes: In a skillet, heat the olive oil and add the boiled potatoes. Fry them over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until they become golden and crispy.

3. Add the coriander: Once the potatoes are fried, add the chopped coriander, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix well and let it cook for another 2-3 minutes to combine the flavors.

Serving

After the Lahmeh Beajin pie has been removed from the oven and cooled slightly, cut it into portions and serve it alongside Batata Bi Kezbera. This duo is perfect for a family meal or a gathering with friends. You can add a fresh tomato and cucumber salad with vinegar to complete the meal. Don't forget to prepare a yogurt with mint for an extra touch of freshness!

Practical Tips

- Choose the meat: If you want a richer flavor, use lamb. Beef is also an excellent alternative.
- Spice variations: You can experiment with various spices, such as smoked paprika or turmeric, to give the recipe a twist.
- Dough: If you're short on time, you can use ready-made pie dough for a quick version.
- Potatoes: Instead of coriander, you can use parsley or even rosemary for a different flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I prepare Lahmeh Beajin in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the filling and dough a day ahead. Keep them in the fridge and assemble the pie before baking.

2. What if I don't have 7 spice mix?
You can create your own combination with your favorite spices. Give it a personalized touch!

3. Is Lahmeh Beajin suitable for vegans?
Although the traditional recipe uses meat, you can replace the meat with a mix of vegetables and mushrooms for a vegan version.

Nutritional Benefits

This recipe is not only delicious but also nutritious. The minced meat provides essential proteins, while the potatoes are a good source of complex carbohydrates, providing energy. Olive oil adds healthy fats to the diet, and fresh herbs add vitamins and antioxidants.

Approximate calories: A serving of Lahmeh Beajin has about 350-400 calories, and a serving of Batata Bi Kezbera has around 250-300 calories, depending on the amount of oil used.

In conclusion, Lahmeh Beajin and Batata Bi Kezbera are an ideal choice for a tasty and comforting meal. I invite you to try them and discover the joy of cooking dishes from various cultures. Every chopped carrot, every piece of mixed meat, and every bite savored will bring you closer to Lebanese culinary traditions and your loved ones. Happy cooking and enjoy your meal!