Flavorful Lebanese Spinach Stew with Rice

Get ready to experience the irresistible allure of Lebanese spinach stew with rice, a dish that tantalizes the taste buds with its vibrant colors and tantalizing flavors. In addition, brace yourself for a serendipitous encounter that transforms an ordinary evening into an extraordinary culinary adventure. Moreover, prepare to unlock the secrets of this captivating tale and embark on your very own gastronomic journey. Are you prepared to savor every moment and indulge in a symphony of exquisite tastes? So, get ready to take a delectable leap into the world of Lebanese cuisine!

As my family and I entered the Middle Eastern restaurant in the heart of Baltimore, the enticing aromas of exotic spices and sizzling meats enveloped us. Our eyes were drawn to the vibrant tapestries adorning the walls, setting the stage for an authentic culinary adventure. However, little did we know that this evening would hold a remarkable surprise.

As we settled into our seats, eagerly perusing the menu, our curiosity was piqued by a dish that seemed to whisper its secrets. It arrived at our table, brought forth by the attentive waiter, and presented with an air of reverence. The Lebanese spinach stew, a vibrant medley of flavors and textures, captivated our senses. The velvety spinach, tender and vibrant, mingled with fragrant rice, creating a symphony of colors and tastes that danced upon our palates.

Meanwhile, amidst the enjoyment of our meal, an unexpected event unfolded, causing a ripple of excitement throughout the restaurant. A local celebrity had graced the restaurant with her presence, instantly capturing the attention and awe of both staff and customers. Whispers and murmurs filled the air as all eyes turned toward the illustrious figure. However, amid this whirlwind, an undeterred young Lebanese chef continued her culinary mastery, orchestrating flavors with a deftness that belied her years.

Filled with admiration for the chef’s skill and inspired by the enchanting evening, I summoned the courage to approach her as the meal drew to a close. With a humble request, I asked if she would be willing to share the recipe for her exceptional Lebanese spinach stew. To my surprise, a warm smile spread across her face. She graciously agreed, imparting the coveted recipe that had delighted our senses.

Now, armed with the knowledge passed down from the talented young chef, let us embark on a culinary adventure of our own. To recreate this Lebanese spinach stew, you will need the following ingredients: olive oil, pine nuts, lean ground beef, 7 Spice seasoning, salt, black pepper, cilantro, garlic cloves, crushed red pepper, frozen spinach, chicken broth, and the juice of one lemon.

Lebanese spinach stew is a delightful and wholesome dish that can be complemented with various sides to create a well-rounded meal. Here are some traditional and delicious options to serve alongside this flavorful stew. For example:

Fresh Pita Bread: Soft, warm pita bread is a staple in Middle Eastern cuisine and perfectly accompanies the spinach stew. Tear off a piece of pita and use it to scoop up the stew, savoring the harmonious blend of flavors.

Hummus: Creamy and savory, hummus is a classic Middle Eastern dip made from chickpeas, tahini, garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil. Serve it alongside the stew for a delightful contrast in textures and flavors. Dip your pita bread or even some fresh vegetables into the hummus for a delightful combination.

Tabbouleh: Tabbouleh is a salad of bright, vibrant flavors and a pleasing texture: made with bulgur wheat, parsley, tomatoes, onions, and mint and complemented by lemon juice and olive oil. This light dish stands as a pleasant contrast to savory spinach stew.

Fattoush Salad: Fattoush is a vibrant salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, cucumbers, radishes, and toasted pita bread, dressed with tangy sumac and lemon dressing. The vegetables’ crispness and the pita croutons’ crunch add a delightful dimension to the meal.

Labneh: Labneh is a strained yogurt cheese, often compared to cream cheese in texture. Its creamy and tangy taste pairs well with the robust flavors of the spinach stew. Spread it on pita bread or use it as a creamy topping for the stew.

Olives: A platter of assorted olives, such as Kalamata or green olives, adds a briny flavor to the meal. Their salty and tangy taste complements the spinach stew and provides a delightful contrast.

Pickled Vegetables: Pickled vegetables, such as pickled turnips, cucumbers, or carrots, add a tangy and refreshing element to the meal. The acidity of the pickles helps balance the richness of the stew.

Here is how I created the Lebanese spinach stew at home.

Ingredients:

• 2 tbsp olive oil (divided)
• 1/3 cup pine nuts
• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 2 tsp 7 Spice
• 2 tsp salt (divided)
• 1/2 tsp black pepper (divided)
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
• 5 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper
• 2 packages (10 oz each) of frozen spinach
• 3 cups chicken broth
• Juice of 1 lemon

How to create a Lebanese spinach stew with rice?

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1. In a sauté pan with a heavy bottom, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Toast the pine nuts until they turn golden, remove them from the pan, and set aside.
2. Heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil using the same pan over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and season it with 7 Spice, 1 teaspoon of salt, and ¼ teaspoon of pepper. Cook the beef until it browns, which should take 5-7 minutes. Once cooked, remove the beef from the pan and set it aside while keeping oil and juices in the pan.
3. In the same pan, add cilantro, garlic, and crushed red pepper. Cook until fragrant, around 2-3 minutes. Introduce frozen spinach and remaining salt, combining well. Cook the spinach with the cilantro mixture until it softens, which should take about 5 minutes.
4. Next, pour in the chicken broth or water and bring the mixture to a boil. Return the cooked ground beef and pine nuts to the pan. Simmer the stew for 20 minutes until it thickens, reducing the heat.
5. Lastly, stir in the lemon juice and serve the stew over traditional Arabic rice pilaf. Combine the beef, beef broth, potatoes, celery, onion, and garlic initially. Also appear a variety of seasonings such as paprika, cumin, and coriander during this process. Simmer these components

As you finish the last flavorful spoonful of Lebanese spinach stew with rice, you can’t help but feel a deep sense of satisfaction and inspiration. Now armed with the recipe and newfound knowledge, it’s time to take your own culinary adventure to new heights. So, let your creativity soar, experiment with different flavors, and enjoy the pleasure of sharing a delicious meal with your loved ones. Furthermore, embrace the magic of Lebanese cuisine and let each delicious bite bring you closer to the wonderful world of global culinary treasures. Bon appétit!