Iraqi makhlama is a dish that has been enjoyed by Iraqis for generations. It is a hearty and flavorful stew made with lamb, tomatoes, onions, and a variety of spices. The dish is typically served with rice or bread and is a staple of Iraqi cuisine.
While the recipe for makhlama varies from region to region and even from family to family, the basic ingredients remain the same. The dish is a testament to the rich culinary traditions of Iraq and is a reminder of the importance of food in bringing people together.
One morning, my wife and I decided to try out a Middle Eastern restaurant in the Bronx. As we went through the menu, I stumbled upon a dish called Iraqi makhlama. I was intrigued by the name and decided to order it.
After a little while, a friendly Middle Eastern waiter brought the dish to our table. The aroma of the spices and herbs used in the dish was tantalizing. The dish consisted of ground beef, tomatoes, onions, parsley, and eggs, all cooked to perfection.
As we enjoyed our meal, we heard a loud crash. A staff member had accidentally dropped a tray of dishes or glasses, causing a bit of a commotion. After a while, the staff cleaned up the mess and the commotion settled.
I was so impressed with the dish that I requested the recipe from the restaurant chef. To my surprise, the chef agreed to give me the recipe.
Here are the ingredients for this dish: onion, ground beef, cherry tomatoes, parsley, lemon juice, eggs, olive oil, salt, black pepper, Maldon salt (optional), and lemon wedges (for topping).
Pairing Suggestions
If you’re planning to serve Iraqi Makhlama, you might be wondering what dishes would pair well with it. Here are a few suggestions that I’ve found to be delicious:
- Grilled Vegetables: Grilled vegetables like eggplant, zucchini, and bell peppers are a great complement to makhlama. They add a smoky flavor that pairs well with the savory flavors of the dish.
- Rice Pilaf: A simple, fluffy rice pilaf is a great side dish for makhlama. It’s a neutral base that can help balance out the richness of the dish.
- Lentil Soup: A hearty lentil soup is a great way to start your meal off on the right foot. It’s warm and comforting, and the earthy flavors of the lentils pair well with the spices in this dish.
- Cucumber Salad: A simple cucumber salad is a refreshing side dish that pairs well with the bold flavors of makhlama. The cool, crisp cucumbers help balance out the spiciness of the dish.
- Roasted Chicken: If you’re looking for a main course to serve alongside makhlama, roasted chicken is a great option—the tender, juicy meat pairs well with the rich flavors of the dish.
Remember, these are just suggestions – feel free to get creative and try out your pairings. And don’t forget to enjoy your meal with good company!
Ingredients:
- 1 diced onion
- 1 1/2 lbs of ground beef (I prefer organic and pasture-raised)
- 2 cups of halved cherry tomatoes
- 1 bunch of finely chopped parsley
- Juice of 1-2 lemons
- 6-12 organic eggs
- Olive oil
- Salt and black pepper
- Optional: Maldon salt to top and lemon wedges to serve
How to Make Iraqi Makhlama?
- Heat about two tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet at medium heat. Then, sweat the onions for about 3-5 minutes and add some salt.
- put in the ground beef. As you stir, break it into small pieces, like little rocks. Cook it on medium-low heat until it turns brown, which usually takes about 5 to 8 minutes.
- When the meat is done, throw in some parsley and lemon juice, and give it all a good mix. After that, add the tomatoes and stir again. Season with salt and pepper to your liking and let it cook on medium heat for around 3 to 5 minutes.
- To complete the makhlama, turn up the heat to medium-high. Place the eggs on the mixture in separate spots. Sprinkle some salt on them, preferably a flaky salt such as Maldon sea salt. Quickly cover the skillet and lower the heat to medium-low. All this should take around 5-10 minutes, depending on your skillet’s thickness. Keep an eye on it to ensure the egg whites are cooked, but the yolks remain soft.
- When it’s ready, take off the lid and sprinkle some parsley on top. I typically serve it with khubz tanour, samoon, baguette, or pita. And if you’re like me, a bit of labneh is a fantastic addition too!
Overall, making Iraqi makhlama is a simple and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
Variations of Iraqi Makhlama
As an Iraqi, I have had the pleasure of trying many different variations of makhlama. Makhlama is a popular Iraqi dish that is typically served for breakfast or brunch. It is made with eggs, tomatoes, onions, and spices, and can be cooked in a variety of ways. Here are some of the most common variations of Iraqi makhlama:
1. Classic Makhlama: This is the most traditional version of makhlama, made with eggs, tomatoes, onions, and spices. It is usually cooked in a skillet and served hot with bread.
2. Makhlama with Meat: This variation of makhlama includes ground beef or lamb, which is added to the skillet with eggs, tomatoes, onions, and spices. It is a heartier version of the dish that is often served for lunch or dinner.
3. Makhlama with Cheese: This version of makhlama includes shredded cheese, which is added to the skillet with eggs, tomatoes, onions, and spices. The cheese adds a creamy, rich flavor to the dish.
4. Makhlama with Vegetables: This variation of makhlama includes additional vegetables, such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini. The vegetables are sautéed with the onions and tomatoes before the eggs are added to the skillet.
5. Makhlama with Herbs: This version of makhlama includes fresh herbs, such as parsley, cilantro, or mint. The herbs are added to the skillet with the eggs, tomatoes, onions, and spices, and add a fresh, aromatic flavor to the dish.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Iraqi makhlama is a delicious and satisfying dish that is popular in Iraq and other Middle Eastern countries. It is a simple dish that is easy to make, and it can be customized to suit your taste preferences.
Makhlama is a versatile dish that can be served for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. It is often served with flatbread, rice, or salad. The dish can be made with a variety of ingredients, including eggs, tomatoes, onions, and spices.
One of the best things about Makhlama is that it is a healthy dish. It is high in protein and low in fat, making it a great option for those who are trying to eat a balanced diet.
Overall, makhlama is a delicious and healthy dish that is perfect for any meal. It is easy to make, customizable, and versatile. If you haven’t tried Makhlama yet, I highly recommend giving it a try!
By the way, it’s recommended to have this dish with samoon bread.
Get the recipe now (by clicking the image below):
