Sumaghiyyeh Recipe

Discover the secrets of Sumaghiyyeh with our authentic recipe. Unleash the rich flavors of Palestinian cuisine in your kitchen. Try it now!

Sumaghiyyeh

    Sumaghiyyeh

  • Cuisine: Palestinian
  • Category: Main Course
  • Prep Time:
  • Cook Time:
  • Servings: 6
  • Calories: 400 calories

About Ingredients Instructions Video Servings Tips Substitutes

Sumaghiyyeh, a cherished Palestinian dish native to Gaza City, is a culinary gem that graces tables on special occasions and holidays. Named after the key ingredient, sumac, this stew encapsulates the essence of Palestinian cuisine with its unique blend of flavors and cultural significance.

At its core, Sumaghiyyeh is a hearty stew featuring sumac-soaked in water, mixed with Tahini, flour, and additional water for thickness. This distinctive mixture becomes the flavorful base, harmonizing with sautéed chopped chard, slow-stewed beef, and tender garbanzo beans. The inclusion of dill seeds and chili peppers infuses the dish with a depth of aromatic complexity, while the garlic, fried in olive oil, imparts a rich and savory note.

Served chilled in bowls, Sumaghiyyeh invites diners to scoop up its luscious goodness with soft Pita bread. Beyond its culinary appeal, this dish is a cultural emblem, reflecting the history and traditions of the Palestinian people. The meticulous preparation and thoughtful combination of ingredients result in a culinary masterpiece that not only satisfies the palate but also tells a story of heritage and celebration.

Sumaghiyyeh stands as a testament to the artistry and significance embedded in Palestinian gastronomy, inviting all who partake to savor a taste of history and tradition.

Recipe

Dive into the vibrant world of Palestinian cuisine with our tantalizing Sumaghiyyeh recipe – a symphony of flavors that captures the essence of tradition and celebration. Let your taste buds embark on an unforgettable journey!

Ingredients

  • 1 cup ground sumac
  • 1/2 cup Tahini (sesame seed paste)
  • 2 tablespoons flour
  • 1 bunch of chard, finely chopped
  • 1 pound slow-stewed beef, cut into pieces
  • 1 cup cooked garbanzo beans
  • 1 teaspoon dill seeds
  • 2-3 red chili peppers, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt to taste
  • Pita bread for serving

Method Instructions

  1. Soak the ground sumac in water for about 30 minutes.
  2. Mix the soaked sumac with Tahini, additional water, and flour to achieve the desired thickness.
  3. In a large pot, sauté the chopped chard in 2 tablespoons of olive oil until wilted.
  4. Add the slow-stewed beef pieces and cooked garbanzo beans to the pot.
  5. Mix in dill seeds, chopped red chili peppers, and salt to taste.
  6. Pour the prepared sumac mixture into the pot, ensuring it blends well with the meat and vegetables.
  7. In a separate pan, fry minced garlic in 1 tablespoon of olive oil until golden brown. Add this to the stew for an extra layer of flavor.
  8. Allow the Sumaghiyyeh to simmer on low heat for about 15-20 minutes, letting all the flavors meld.
  9. Once done, pour the Sumaghiyyeh into bowls to cool slightly. It's traditionally served with Pita bread, which you can use to scoop up this flavorful stew.

Recipe Video

Sumaghiyyeh

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Recipe Tags: Sumaghiyyeh, Sumaghiyyeh Recipe, Recipe

Servings

Serving Sumaghiyyeh is a delightful experience, and the traditional presentation enhances the enjoyment of this flavorful Palestinian dish. Here's how you can serve Sumaghiyyeh:

  • Chill and Ladle: Allow the Sumaghiyyeh to cool slightly after cooking. Ladle the stew into individual serving bowls. The cooling process helps the flavors meld and enhances the overall taste.
  • Accompaniments: Place a stack of soft Pita bread on the table. Pita is the perfect accompaniment for Sumaghiyyeh, serving as both a utensil and a delicious element to soak up the rich flavors.
  • Garnish: Consider garnishing the Sumaghiyyeh with a drizzle of quality olive oil or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley for a touch of freshness.
  • Serve Family-Style: Sumaghiyyeh is often served family-style, allowing everyone to dig in and enjoy communal dining. Place the bowls and Pita bread in the center of the table for a shared experience.
  • Cultural Enjoyment: Embrace the cultural aspect by encouraging guests to use torn pieces of Pita bread to scoop up the Sumaghiyyeh, relishing the combination of flavors with each bite.
  • Accompanying Dishes: If desired, you can complement the meal with a side of olives, pickles, or a simple salad to balance the richness of the stew.

Tips

  1. Quality Sumac: Opt for high-quality ground sumac to ensure a robust and authentic flavor in the dish. Fresh sumac will contribute significantly to the overall taste.
  2. Tahini Consistency: Pay attention to the consistency of the Tahini mixture. Adjust the amount of water and flour to achieve the desired thickness. A smooth and well-balanced texture enhances the stew.
  3. Taste as You Go: Taste the Sumaghiyyeh at different stages of cooking and adjust the seasoning accordingly. This allows you to personalize the dish to your preferred level of saltiness and spiciness.
  4. Slow-Stewed Beef Tenderization: Ensure the beef is slow-stewed to perfection. Slow cooking allows the meat to become tender and absorb the flavors of the stew. It's worth the time investment for a more succulent result.
  5. Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh and high-quality ingredients, especially when it comes to the chard, garlic, and olive oil. Fresh ingredients contribute significantly to the overall taste and authenticity of the dish.
  6. Garnish Thoughtfully: Consider garnishing the Sumaghiyyeh with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley just before serving. This adds a finishing touch and elevates the visual appeal.
  7. Communal Dining: Embrace the communal dining tradition by serving Sumaghiyyeh family-style. Encourage everyone to share the experience of scooping up the stew with Pita bread.
  8. Experiment with Pita Bread: While traditional Pita bread is a classic choice, feel free to experiment with different types of flatbreads or even whole-grain options for a unique twist.
  9. Make Ahead: Sumaghiyyeh often tastes even better the next day as the flavors have had more time to meld. Consider making it ahead of time and reheating for an easy and flavorful meal.
  10. Personal Touch: Don't hesitate to add a personal touch to the recipe. Whether it's a sprinkle of your favorite herbs or a hint of spice, adapting the recipe to your taste preferences makes it truly yours.

Ingredient Substitutes

While Palestinian Sumaghiyyeh has a unique flavor profile, you can make some ingredient substitutions based on availability or dietary preferences. Here are a few alternatives:

  1. Sumac Substitute: If sumac is hard to find, you can use a mixture of lemon zest and lemon juice as a substitute. It won't replicate the exact flavor, but it will provide a citrusy brightness.
  2. Tahini Substitute: Substitute Tahini with a mixture of natural peanut butter or almond butter blended with a bit of olive oil. This alternative won't replicate the sesame flavor entirely but will add a nutty richness.
  3. Chard Substitute: Spinach or kale can be used as substitutes for chard. While the flavor profile may differ slightly, both spinach and kale offer a similar leafy green texture.
  4. Beef Substitute: If you prefer a meatless version, you can omit the beef or replace it with mushrooms for a hearty, umami flavor. Alternatively, use chicken as a leaner protein option.
  5. Garbanzo Beans Substitute: Cannellini beans or navy beans can replace garbanzo beans. These beans offer a creamy texture and can absorb the flavors of the stew.
  6. Dill Seeds Substitute: If you don't have dill seeds, you can use dried dill weed. While the flavor is slightly different, it still adds a hint of herbal freshness.
  7. Red Chili Peppers Substitute: Adjust the spice level by using red pepper flakes or paprika instead of fresh red chili peppers. This allows you to control the heat according to your preference.
  8. Olive Oil Substitute: Substitute olive oil with another mild-flavored oil like vegetable oil or avocado oil. Keep in mind that the choice of oil can impact the overall taste.

Remarks

As you savor the sumptuous flavors of Sumaghiyyeh, may each bite be a celebration of Palestinian culture. Share, enjoy, and keep the culinary traditions alive!

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