Dive into the comforting warmth of this Lebanese Cauliflower & Meat Stew (Yakhnet l'Arnabit), a hearty and flavorful dish perfect for a chilly evening. This keto-friendly recipe boasts tender cauliflower florets simmered in a rich, savory broth infused with aromatic spices and succulent pieces of meat, creating a symphony of textures and tastes. Forget bland, tasteless cauliflower; this stew elevates the humble vegetable to a culinary masterpiece, a testament to the vibrant flavors of Lebanese cuisine. It's a surprisingly simple yet deeply satisfying meal that's sure to become a family favorite.
This traditional recipe is surprisingly easy to recreate at home, even for beginner cooks. The blend of spices, the slow simmering process, and the perfect balance of meat and cauliflower create an unforgettable eating experience. Ready to experience the deliciousness for yourself? Let's get started with the step-by-step instructions!
Tools Needed
- Pot
- Stove
- Freezer bags
- Knife
- Cutting board
Ingredients
- Meat (fillet, no fat): 0.5 kg
- Boiling water: 1.5 liters
- Cauliflower: 1 large piece
- Garlic: 5 cloves (plus extra for freezing)
- Olive oil: null
- Butter: 1 piece
- Green coriander: 1/2 bunch (frozen)
- Salt: null
- Sugar: null
- Seven spices: null
- Lemons: 2 or more
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Meat and Broth
- Brown the meat in a pot with olive oil until lightly browned. Add boiling water and seasonings (sugar included). Simmer until the meat is fully cooked.
Step 2. Sauté Aromatics and Cauliflower
- While the meat simmers, cut the cauliflower into large pieces and wash thoroughly.
- In a separate pot, melt butter with olive oil. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant. Add frozen green coriander directly from the freezer and stir until softened.
- Add the cauliflower pieces to the garlic and coriander mixture. Stir gently to distribute the garlic and coriander evenly.
Step 3. Combine and Simmer
- Once the meat is cooked, strain the broth and remove the meat. Pour the broth over the cauliflower. Do not add extra water. Add salt and seven spices. Stir gently from the bottom up.
- Add the cooked meat back to the pot. Gently stir the cauliflower and meat. Cover the pot and cook until the cauliflower is tender.
Step 4. Finish and Serve
- Squeeze 2 or more lemons into the stew, adjusting to taste. Let it simmer for a while to absorb the lemon juice.
- Serve hot!
Read more: Delicious Chicken Maqluba Rice Recipe (Sinhala)
Tips
- Freeze extra garlic in olive oil for easy use in future stews.
- Freeze green coriander for time-saving convenience.
- Gently stir the cauliflower to prevent breaking the pieces.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I use different types of meat in this stew?
Absolutely! Beef, lamb, or even chicken work well. Adjust cooking time accordingly based on the meat's thickness.
2. Is this recipe truly keto-friendly?
Yes, as long as you use keto-friendly ingredients and avoid adding extra starchy vegetables. The cauliflower provides a good base of nutrients.
3. Can I make this stew in a slow cooker?
Yes! Transfer all ingredients to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Check for tenderness before serving.
This Lebanese Cauliflower & Meat Stew is a flavorful and satisfying meal that’s surprisingly simple to make. Enjoy the rich, warming flavors of this keto-friendly dish, perfect for a comforting dinner any time of year. From the fragrant spices to the tender cauliflower and meat, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.