Maraq Luul iyo Hilib
A comforting and flavorful Somali stew featuring tender goat meat simmered in a rich yogurt-based broth with aromatic spices. This dish is often served with rice or traditional Somali flatbreads.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1 kg Goat meat(cut into 1.5-inch cubes)
- 3 tablespoons Olive oil
- 1 finely chopped Large onion
- 4 minced Garlic cloves
- 2 tablespoons Tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon Ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon Ground coriander
- 0.5 teaspoon Ground black pepper
- to taste Salt
- 4 cups Water
- 2 cups Plain yogurt
- 0.25 cup Fresh cilantro(chopped, for garnish)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the goat meat and sear on all sides until browned. Remove the meat and set aside.
⏱️ 10 minutes - 2
Add the chopped onion to the pot and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
⏱️ 6 minutes - 3
Stir in the tomato paste, cumin, coriander, and black pepper. Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
⏱️ 2 minutes - 4
Return the seared goat meat to the pot. Add the water and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 1 hour, or until the meat is tender.
⏱️ 1 hour - 5
In a separate bowl, whisk the plain yogurt until smooth. Gradually temper the yogurt by adding a ladleful of the hot stew liquid while whisking constantly. This prevents the yogurt from curdling.
💡 Tip: Tempering the yogurt is crucial for a smooth, creamy sauce. - 6
Slowly pour the tempered yogurt mixture back into the pot with the stew, stirring constantly. Simmer gently for another 15-20 minutes, uncovered, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
⏱️ 20 minutes - 7
Taste and adjust seasoning with salt if needed. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
💡 Tip: Serve hot with rice, sabaayad, or other Somali flatbreads.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Ensure the goat meat is tender before adding the yogurt.
- ✓Do not boil the stew after adding the yogurt, as it can cause it to curdle.
- ✓If you prefer a thicker stew, you can simmer it uncovered for a bit longer.
🔄 Variations
- Add diced potatoes or carrots along with the meat for a heartier stew.
- For a spicier version, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a finely chopped green chili.