Egyptian Lahma Bil Basal Recipe

This Egyptian Lahma Bil Basal recipe is a classic dish that offers a rich and flavorful experience. Tender beef pieces are cooked in a savory and aromatic onion-based sauce, creating a mouthwatering combination of flavors. The slow-cooked beef becomes incredibly tender, while the onions add a sweet and caramelized taste to the dish. Serve this delicious recipe with rice or pita bread for a complete and satisfying meal.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs beef stew meat, cut into small cubes
• 4 large onions, thinly sliced
• 4 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon ground paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 2 cups beef broth
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

1. In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil and butter over medium heat.
2. Add the sliced onions and minced garlic to the pot and sauté until the onions are soft and golden brown.
3. Remove half of the caramelized onions from the pot and set them aside for later use.
4. To the remaining onions in the pot, add the beef cubes and brown them on all sides.
5. Once the beef is browned, add the ground cumin, coriander, cinnamon, paprika, turmeric, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to evenly coat the beef.
6. Pour in the beef broth and bring the mixture to a simmer.
7. Cover the pot and cook the beef over low heat for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the meat is tender and the flavors have melded together.
8. During the last 15 minutes of cooking, add the reserved caramelized onions back into the pot.
9. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if needed.
10. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving.
11. Serve the Lahma Bil Basal hot with rice or pita bread.

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