Egyptian Spinach with Meat, also known as Sabaneekh bil Lahma, is a deliciously hearty dish that showcases the rich, flavorful traditions of Egyptian cuisine. This comforting dish beautifully combines tender meat with vibrant spinach and a savory blend of spices, creating a soul-warming meal perfect for family gatherings.
This comforting, nutrient-rich stew brings together juicy tomatoes, aromatic garlic, and a robust mix of spices, ensuring every bite is a burst of flavor. The natural sweetness from the tomatoes and the freshness of the coriander elevate this traditional dish, making it a staple in many Egyptian homes.
Ingredients
- 500g diced meat (beef or lamb)
- 2 cups tomato juice
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup fresh green coriander, chopped
- 500g fresh spinach, washed and roughly chopped
- 1 tsp meat spices (or a mix of black pepper, ground cardamom, cloves, and mastic)
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 2 bay leaves (Lori paper)
- Salt to taste
- 1 tbsp oil
- Water as needed
Preparation
- Heat a large pot over medium heat and add the diced meat.
- Sear the meat on all sides until it is browned.
- Add the meat spices, bay leaves, and finely chopped onion to the pot.
- Stir and cook until the onion softens slightly.
- Pour in the tomato juice and bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Cook until the onions are well-integrated into the sauce.
- Add water as needed to ensure the meat is covered and continue cooking until the meat is tender, about one hour.
- Once the meat is cooked, stir in the spinach and cook until it has wilted down.
- In a separate small pan, heat oil and add the minced garlic and chopped green coriander.
- Cook until the garlic is fragrant, then pour the mixture into the pot with the meat and spinach.
- Stir everything together and let it simmer for an additional 10 minutes.
- Add salt to taste and serve hot.
Did you know?
Spinach is packed with nutrients such as iron, calcium, and vitamins A, C, and K, making this dish not just delicious but also highly nutritious. The combination of the dark green leaves and the high-quality protein from the meat makes it a well-rounded meal, perfect for those looking to boost their nutritional intake.
Interestingly, spinach has played a significant role in various cuisines around the world, but it holds a special place in Egyptian cooking, dating back to the Pharaonic era. The use of spices such as cardamom and cloves gives this dish a distinct aroma that is both inviting and deeply satisfying.
In different regions of Egypt, the ingredients and methods can vary slightly, reflecting the diversity within Egyptian culinary traditions. Some might even substitute the meat with meatballs or use minced meat for a different texture. Regardless of variations, the essence of Sabaneekh bil Lahma remains the same – a testament to Egypt’s rich and flavorful food heritage.
