RecipesIraqKheema bil Tamata

Kheema bil Tamata

A hearty and flavorful Iraqi minced meat and tomato stew, often served with rice or bread. It's a comforting dish that highlights simple, fresh ingredients.

Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time40 minutes
Total Time55 minutes
Servings4
DifficultyEasy
Kheema bil Tamata - Iraq traditional dish

🧂 Ingredients

  • 500 g Ground lamb or beef
  • 2 medium Onions(finely chopped)
  • 3 cloves Garlic(minced)
  • 400 g Tomatoes(canned crushed or diced)
  • 2 tbsp Tomato paste
  • 2 tbsp Vegetable oil
  • 1 cup Water or broth
  • 1 tsp Cumin powder
  • 1 tsp Coriander powder
  • 1/2 tsp Turmeric powder
  • 1 tsp Salt(or to taste)
  • 1/2 tsp Black pepper(or to taste)
  • 1/4 cup Fresh parsley(chopped, for garnish)

👨‍🍳 Instructions

  1. 1

    Heat vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.

  2. 2

    Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

  3. 3

    Add the ground meat to the pot. Break it up with a spoon and cook until browned, draining off any excess fat.

    💡 Tip: Ensure the meat is evenly browned.
  4. 4

    Stir in the tomato paste, cumin, coriander, turmeric, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the spices are fragrant.

  5. 5

    Pour in the crushed or diced tomatoes and the water or broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer.

    💡 Tip: Use good quality canned tomatoes for best flavor.
  6. 6

    Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for at least 25-30 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened and the flavors have melded.

    💡 Tip: Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
  7. 7

    Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving.

    💡 Tip: Fresh parsley adds a bright, fresh finish.

💡 Pro Tips

  • For a richer flavor, use lamb instead of beef.
  • Add a pinch of chili flakes for a touch of heat.
  • This stew can be made ahead of time; the flavors deepen overnight.
  • Serve with Iraqi flatbread (khubz) or fluffy basmati rice.

🔄 Variations

  • Add diced potatoes or carrots to the stew.
  • Stir in a tablespoon of lemon juice at the end for brightness.
  • Incorporate a bay leaf during simmering for added aroma.

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