Mediterranean > Greek > Greek Appetizers

Mortaràt with Spinach and Feta Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 2 cups fresh spinach leaves, chopped
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh green onions
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives

Special equipment needed:
- Mortar and pestle

Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned and cooked through. Drain any excess fat.
2. Add the onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the paprika, cumin, cinnamon, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper to the skillet and stir to combine.
4. Add the tomato sauce and beef broth to the skillet and stir to combine. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes.
5. Meanwhile, in a mortar and pestle, combine the feta cheese, spinach, parsley, mint, cilantro, dill, green onions, and chives. Grind the ingredients together until they form a paste.
6. Add the spinach and feta paste to the skillet and stir to combine. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, or until the spinach is wilted and the flavors have melded together.
7. Serve the Mortaràt hot, garnished with additional fresh herbs if desired.


Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
5. Temperature:
Medium heat
Serving size:
4 servings

Nutritional information:
Calories: 320
Fat: 18g
Carbohydrates: 10g
Protein: 28g
Sodium: 680mg

Substitutions for ingredients:
- Ground lamb or turkey can be substituted for the ground beef.
- Any variety of cheese can be substituted for the feta cheese.
- Any variety of leafy greens can be substituted for the spinach.

Variations:
- Add chopped tomatoes or bell peppers to the skillet for added flavor and texture.
- Serve the Mortaràt over rice or with pita bread for a more filling meal.
- Add a dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream on top for added creaminess.

Tips and tricks:
- Use a large skillet to ensure that all the ingredients can be combined easily.
- If you don't have a mortar and pestle, you can use a food processor to grind the spinach and feta together.

Storage instructions:
Store any leftover Mortaràt in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating instructions:
Reheat the Mortaràt in a skillet over medium heat until heated through.

Presentation ideas:
Serve the Mortaràt in a large bowl or on a platter, garnished with additional fresh herbs.

Garnishes:
Fresh herbs, Greek yogurt, or sour cream.

Pairings:
Pair the Mortaràt with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal.

Suggested side dishes:
Rice, pita bread, or roasted potatoes.

Troubleshooting advice:
If the Mortaràt is too dry, add more tomato sauce or beef broth to the skillet.

Food safety advice:
Always cook ground beef to an internal temperature of 160°F to ensure that it is safe to eat.

Food history:
Mortaràt is a traditional Moroccan dish that is typically made with ground lamb or beef and a variety of spices and herbs.

Flavor profiles:
The Mortaràt is a savory and flavorful dish that is slightly spicy and has a hint of sweetness from the cinnamon.

Serving suggestions:
Serve the Mortaràt as a main dish for dinner or as a hearty lunch.

Related Categories

Cooking Method: N/A

Course Type: N/A

Dietary: N/A

Ingredient: N/A

Meal type: N/A

Occassion: N/A

Region: Greek

Taste: Savory, Tangy, Herby, Creamy, Salty