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Meat bread, a mouthwatering combination of shredded meats and fresh-baked bread has been a cherished comfort food in many cultures for centuries.
The Rich History of Meat Bread
It has a diverse history that spans across continents. Variations of this dish can be found in Middle Eastern, Mediterranean, and European cuisines. Known by different names such as “Lahmacun” in Turkey, “Arayes” in Lebanon, or “Runza” in the American Midwest, it has been adapted to suit various culinary traditions.
Meat Bread
Ingredients
For the Dough
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp sugar
- 2 tsp active dry yeast
- ⅔ cup warm water
- 2 tbsp olive oil
For the Meat Filling
- 1 Ib beef or lamb
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tomato, diced
- ½ red bell pepper, finely chopped
- ½ green bell pepper, finely chopped
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp ground cinnamon
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
For the Dough
- In a bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.1 tsp sugar, 2 tsp active dry yeast, ⅔ cup warm water
- In a separate bowl, mix the flour and salt.2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 tsp salt
- Pour the yeast mixture and olive oil into the flour mixture. Knead the dough until it's smooth and elastic.
- Cover and let it rise for about an hour, or until doubled in size.
For the Meat Filling
- In a pan, sauté onions and garlic until translucent. Add ground meat and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.1 onion, finely chopped, 2 cloves garlic, minced, 2 tbsp olive oil
- Stir in diced tomatoes, bell peppers, and tomato paste.½ red bell pepper, finely chopped, ½ green bell pepper, finely chopped, 2 tbsp tomato paste
- Add cumin, paprika, ground cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Cook until the mixture thickens and the flavors meld. Remove from heat.1 tsp paprika, ½ tsp ground cinnamon, Salt and pepper to taste, 1 tsp ground cumin
- Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C).
- Divide the dough into small balls and roll them into thin rounds or ovals.
- Place a spoonful of the meat mixture onto each dough round.
- Fold the dough over the filling and seal the edges, creating a half-moon shape.
- Place the meat breads on a baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Serve your freshly baked meat bread with a side of yogurt, tahini sauce, or a crisp salad.