I've had lots of requests for the recipes for this Mediterranean feast I made one night. I love to play with the flavors of Middle Eastern cuisine, although I have so much to learn about it. I love making homemade hummus so I can adjust the flavors and make it as creamy or textured as I want it. But I do serve with store bought naan, the Mediterranean flatbread you can find in most grocery store bakeries, a great vehicle for the meat and sauces.
Most people who've asked me for recipes can tell you that I don't often measure ingredients. I believe that in cooking, as in life, you throw in a lot of the seasonings you like, reduce or eliminate the ones that you don't, and make it your own.
Lamb Kefta
ground lamb and/or beef (about 1 lb.)
parsley (chopped, about 1/2 cup)
cilantro and/or mint (chopped, I used a combination, about 1/2 cup total)
onion (grated, about 1/2 medium)
garlic (2 or 3 cloves garlic, grated)
cumin (about a tablespoon)
paprika (about a tablespoon - I like the smoked kind, but sweet works)
Mix all that good stuff together and let it chill out in the fridge while you make one or both of the complimentary sauces below. Then shape the meat into patties (or shape it around skewers, if you prefer) and spray with a little olive oil. Grill for about 3-4 minutes per side.
Hummus
chickpeas or cannellini beans (1 can, drained)
garlic (2 cloves)
tahini (about a tablespoon)
cumin (about a tablespoon)
lemon juice (about half a lemon squeezed)
Throw all that into your handy little food processor and blend it up. Add olive oil while blending until it's a consistency you like. You can also add roasted red peppers, herbs, or other flavors you like.
Yogurt Sauce
Greek yogurt (I use one of those little 2% containers)
mint
cilantro
parsley
lemon juice
This is really to taste. Of course, add sea salt and pepper, or hot sauce, if you like.
I also serve this with wild rice orzo salad (recipe coming soon) or grilled veggies and naan. If you also like a little spice, serve a little sambal or harissa!
Give it a try and let me know what you think!
Hozzászólások