Yemeni Lahsa

Welcome to Our Kitchen Companion! If you’re looking to explore the vibrant and aromatic world of Yemeni cuisine, you’ve come to the right place. Today, we’re diving into the delightful dish known as Lahsa. This traditional Yemeni stew is not only hearty and satisfying but also packed with flavors that will transport your taste buds to the bustling markets of Yemen.

What is Lahsa?

Lahsa is a spicy, flavorful stew made with meat (usually chicken or lamb), vegetables, and a unique blend of spices. It’s often enjoyed with rice or flatbreads, making it a complete meal perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners.

Ingredients

Full Ingredients List

• Protein:
  • 1 lb (450g) chicken thighs or lamb, cut into pieces
• Vegetables:
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 2 medium tomatoes, diced
  • 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
  • 1 large carrot, sliced
  • 1 bell pepper, chopped
• Spices:
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
• Herbs:
  • Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish
• Liquid:
  • 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• Optional:
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice (for a tangy flavor)

Grocery List

• Chicken thighs or lamb
• Onion
• Tomatoes
• Potatoes
• Carrot
• Bell pepper
• Vegetable oil
• Ground cumin
• Ground coriander
• Ground turmeric
• Ground cinnamon
• Chili powder
• Salt
• Pepper
• Fresh cilantro or parsley
• Chicken or vegetable broth
• Lemon (optional)

Cooking Guide

Cooking Time

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour

Instructions

1. Prepare the Ingredients:
   • Chop the onion, tomatoes, potatoes, carrot, and bell pepper. Set aside.
2. Sauté the Onions:
   • In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until they are translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the Protein:
   • Add the chicken or lamb pieces to the pot. Cook until browned on all sides, about 8-10 minutes.
4. Incorporate the Spices:
   • Stir in the cumin, coriander, turmeric, cinnamon, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
5. Add the Vegetables:
   • Add the diced tomatoes, cubed potatoes, sliced carrots, and chopped bell pepper to the pot. Stir well to combine.
6. Pour in the Broth:
   • Add the chicken or vegetable broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for about 30 minutes, or until the meat is tender and the vegetables are cooked through.
7. Finish and Serve:
   • If desired, stir in the lemon juice for added tang. Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley before serving.
8. Enjoy:
   • Serve hot with rice or flatbreads, and enjoy the rich flavors of Yemeni Lahsa!

Useful Side Tips

• Adjust the Spice Level: Feel free to modify the amount of chili powder based on your heat preference.
• Make it Vegetarian: Substitute the meat with chickpeas or lentils for a delicious vegetarian version.
• Leftovers: Lahsa tastes even better the next day! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: Approximately 350 kcal
• Protein: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fat: 15g
• Fiber: 5g

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Final Thoughts

Yemeni Lahsa is a dish that brings warmth and comfort to any table. With its rich flavors and hearty ingredients, it’s perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and let’s get cooking!

Happy cooking! ️