Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 lb. ground lamb
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tomatoes, chopped
- 1 tsp. paprika
- 1 tsp. cumin
- 1 tsp. salt
- 1/2 tsp. black pepper
- 1/2 cup çökelek cheese
- 2 tbsp. olive oil
Special equipment needed:
- Large skillet
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened.
3. Add ground lamb to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it up into small pieces with a wooden spoon.
4. Add chopped tomatoes, paprika, cumin, salt, and black pepper to the skillet and stir to combine.
5. Reduce heat to medium and let the mixture simmer for 10-15 minutes until the tomatoes have softened and the flavors have melded together.
6. Add çökelek cheese to the skillet and stir until melted and fully incorporated into the lamb and tomato mixture.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
- Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 25 minutes
Temperature:
- Medium-high heat for sautéing and browning the lamb
- Medium heat for simmering the lamb and tomato mixture
Serving size:
- 4 servings
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 24g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Protein: 26g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Ground beef or turkey can be substituted for ground lamb
- Feta cheese or ricotta cheese can be substituted for çökelek cheese
Variations:
- Add chopped bell peppers or zucchini to the skillet for added vegetables
- Serve over rice or with pita bread for a heartier meal
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to break up the ground lamb into small pieces while cooking to ensure even browning and cooking
- Use fresh, ripe tomatoes for the best flavor
Storage instructions:
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days
Reheating instructions:
- Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through
Presentation ideas:
- Serve in individual bowls or on a platter for sharing
Garnishes:
- Fresh parsley or cilantro can be chopped and sprinkled on top for added flavor and color
Pairings:
- Serve with a side salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal
Suggested side dishes:
- Greek salad
- Roasted vegetables
- Rice pilaf
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the lamb and tomato mixture is too dry, add a splash of water or chicken broth to loosen it up
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to cook the lamb to an internal temperature of 160°F to ensure it is fully cooked and safe to eat
Food history:
- Çökelek is a traditional Turkish cheese made from strained yogurt
Flavor profiles:
- Savory, slightly tangy, and slightly spicy
Serving suggestions:
- Serve hot as a main dish for lunch or dinner
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Region: Turkish