Shish barak is a traditional Middle Eastern dish that consists of small, dumpling-like pieces of dough filled with a mixture of ground meat and spices, cooked in a flavorful yogurt sauce. This hearty and comforting dish is a staple in many Middle Eastern countries, including Lebanon, Syria, and Jordan. In this article, we will explore the history of shish barak, its cultural significance, and provide a step-by-step guide on how to cook this delicious dish.
A Brief History of Shish Barak
Shish barak has a long and rich history that dates back to the Ottoman Empire. The dish is believed to have originated in the Levant region, where it was cooked by the local population as a way to use up leftover meat and dough. Over time, shish barak spread throughout the Middle East, with each country adding its own unique twist to the recipe.
Cultural Significance of Shish Barak
Shish barak is more than just a dish; it’s a symbol of hospitality and generosity in Middle Eastern culture. In many countries, shish barak is served at special occasions such as weddings, holidays, and family gatherings. The dish is often cooked in large quantities and served to guests as a sign of respect and welcome.
Ingredients and Preparation
Before we dive into the cooking process, let’s take a look at the ingredients and preparation required for shish barak.
Ingredients:
For the dough:
- 2 cups of all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
- 1/4 cup of vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup of warm water
For the filling:
- 1 pound of ground meat (beef, lamb, or a combination of both)
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon of allspice
For the yogurt sauce:
- 2 cups of plain yogurt
- 1/2 cup of water
- 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
Preparation:
To start, we need to prepare the dough and the filling.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, and black pepper. Gradually add the vegetable oil and warm water, mixing the dough until it becomes smooth and elastic. Knead the dough for 5-10 minutes until it becomes pliable and easy to work with. Cover the dough with plastic wrap and let it rest for 30 minutes.
- In a separate mixing bowl, combine the ground meat, chopped onion, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, cinnamon, and allspice. Mix the filling until it’s well combined and the ingredients are evenly distributed.
Cooking Shish Barak
Now that we have our dough and filling ready, it’s time to cook shish barak.
Assembling the Shish Barak
To assemble the shish barak, we need to roll out the dough into small balls and flatten them slightly into disks. Place a tablespoon of the filling in the center of each disk and fold the dough over the filling, forming a triangle or a square shape. Press the edges of the dough together to seal the shish barak.
Cooking the Shish Barak
To cook the shish barak, we need to boil them in water until they’re cooked through. Bring a large pot of water to a boil and gently add the shish barak to the pot. Cook the shish barak for 10-15 minutes, or until they float to the surface.
Making the Yogurt Sauce
While the shish barak are cooking, we can start making the yogurt sauce. In a small saucepan, combine the yogurt, water, vegetable oil, garlic, salt, and black pepper. Heat the sauce over medium heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
Serving Shish Barak
To serve shish barak, place the cooked dumplings in a serving dish and cover them with the yogurt sauce. Serve the dish hot, garnished with chopped parsley or mint.
Tips and Variations
Here are some tips and variations to help you make the perfect shish barak:
Tips:
- Use a combination of beef and lamb for a more flavorful filling.
- Add a pinch of cumin or coriander to the filling for extra flavor.
- Use a high-quality yogurt for the sauce, as it will give the dish a richer and creamier flavor.
- Serve shish barak with a side of rice or bread for a more filling meal.
Variations:
- Add some heat to the filling by incorporating diced jalapenos or red pepper flakes.
- Use different types of meat, such as chicken or turkey, for a leaner filling.
- Add some freshness to the dish by incorporating chopped herbs, such as parsley or cilantro, into the filling.
Conclusion
Shish barak is a delicious and comforting Middle Eastern dish that’s perfect for special occasions or everyday meals. With its rich history and cultural significance, shish barak is a dish that’s sure to impress your guests and leave them wanting more. By following the steps outlined in this article, you’ll be able to make perfect shish barak that’s sure to become a staple in your household.
What is Shish Barak?
Shish Barak is a traditional Middle Eastern dish that consists of small, dumpling-like pieces of dough filled with a mixture of ground meat and spices. The dumplings are typically served in a yogurt-based sauce, often accompanied by garlic and mint. This hearty and flavorful dish is a staple in many Middle Eastern countries, including Lebanon, Syria, and Jordan.
The name “Shish Barak” literally translates to “meat dumplings” in Arabic, which accurately describes the composition of the dish. The dumplings are usually made with a mixture of ground meat, onions, and spices, which are then wrapped in a thin layer of dough. The resulting dish is a delicious and satisfying combination of flavors and textures.
What ingredients are needed to make Shish Barak?
To make Shish Barak, you will need a variety of ingredients, including ground meat (usually beef or lamb), onions, garlic, spices, and dough. The dough is typically made with flour, water, and salt, and is rolled out into thin sheets to wrap around the filling. You will also need yogurt, garlic, and mint to make the sauce that accompanies the dumplings.
In addition to these basic ingredients, you may also want to add other spices and seasonings to give the dish more flavor. Some common additions include cumin, coriander, and paprika. You can also customize the filling to suit your tastes, adding ingredients such as chopped herbs or grated vegetables.
How do I make the dough for Shish Barak?
To make the dough for Shish Barak, you will need to combine flour, water, and salt in a bowl. The dough should be kneaded until it is smooth and elastic, and then allowed to rest for a period of time before being rolled out into thin sheets. You can also add a little bit of oil to the dough to help it come together and give it a more tender texture.
It’s worth noting that making the dough for Shish Barak can be a bit time-consuming, as it requires kneading and resting the dough. However, the end result is well worth the effort, as the homemade dough gives the dish a unique and authentic flavor. You can also use store-bought dough as a substitute, but the homemade version is generally preferred.
How do I assemble the Shish Barak dumplings?
To assemble the Shish Barak dumplings, you will need to place a small spoonful of the meat filling in the center of a piece of dough. The dough should then be folded over the filling to form a triangle or square shape, and the edges should be sealed to prevent the filling from escaping during cooking.
It’s a good idea to make sure the edges of the dough are sealed tightly, as this will help the dumplings hold their shape and prevent them from breaking apart during cooking. You can also use a little bit of water to help seal the edges, if necessary. Once the dumplings are assembled, they can be cooked in boiling water or steamed until they are tender.
How do I make the yogurt sauce for Shish Barak?
To make the yogurt sauce for Shish Barak, you will need to combine yogurt, garlic, and mint in a bowl. The mixture should be stirred until it is smooth and creamy, and then seasoned with salt and pepper to taste. You can also add a little bit of lemon juice or vinegar to give the sauce a tangy flavor.
The yogurt sauce is an essential component of Shish Barak, as it helps to balance out the richness of the meat filling. You can adjust the amount of garlic and mint to suit your tastes, and also add other ingredients such as chopped herbs or grated cucumber. The sauce should be served chilled, alongside the cooked dumplings.
Can I customize the filling for Shish Barak?
Yes, you can customize the filling for Shish Barak to suit your tastes. Some common variations include adding chopped herbs or grated vegetables to the meat mixture, or using different types of meat such as beef or lamb. You can also add spices or seasonings to give the filling more flavor.
It’s worth noting that the filling should be flavorful but not overpowering, as the yogurt sauce is an important component of the dish. You can also experiment with different combinations of ingredients to create a unique flavor profile. Just be sure to adjust the amount of seasoning accordingly, as the filling should be well-balanced and harmonious.
How do I serve Shish Barak?
Shish Barak is typically served as a main course, accompanied by the yogurt sauce and often garnished with chopped herbs or mint. You can also serve the dish with a side of rice or bread, or add other ingredients such as chopped vegetables or pickles.
The dish is often served at special occasions and gatherings, as it is a hearty and satisfying meal that is sure to please a crowd. You can also serve Shish Barak as a snack or appetizer, or add it to a buffet or potluck. Just be sure to serve the dish hot, as the dumplings are best enjoyed when they are freshly cooked.