Introduction
Matazeez is a traditional Saudi dish that is loved for its comforting and hearty qualities. The dish mainly consists of dumplings cooked with meat in a richly spiced sauce. It’s the kind of meal that warms you from the inside out and leaves you feeling deeply satisfied. This article provides a step-by-step guide to help you create this delicious Saudi dish at home.
Ingredients
For the Dumplings:
- 3 cups of all-purpose flour
- 1 cup of water (more may be needed)
- A pinch of salt
For the Meat and Sauce:
- 500 grams of lamb or beef, cut into pieces
- 2 large onions, chopped
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 large tomatoes, pureed
- 2 tablespoons of tomato paste
- 1-2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon of turmeric
- 1 teaspoon of ground coriander
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4-5 cups of waterTry our other recipes here
Instructions
- Prepare the Dumplings: Combine the flour and salt in a large bowl. Gradually add water, kneading until the dough comes together. It should be firm but pliable. Divide the dough into small pieces and shape them into flat, round dumplings. Set aside.
- Cook the Meat: Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the meat and brown on all sides. Remove the meat from the pot and set it aside.
- Prepare the Sauce: In the same pot, add the chopped onions and minced garlic. Cook until the onions become translucent. Add the pureed tomatoes, tomato paste, turmeric, coriander, salt, and pepper. Stir well, allowing the spices to coat the onions and garlic.
- Simmer the Meat: Return the meat to the pot and add the water. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer until the meat is tender (about 1 hour for beef, 2 hours for lamb).
- Cook the Dumplings: Once the meat is tender, add the dumplings to the pot. Make sure the dumplings are submerged in the sauce. Cover the pot and cook for about 20 minutes, or until the dumplings are cooked through and have absorbed the flavors of the sauce.
- Serve the Matazeez: Your Matazeez is now ready to serve. Enjoy it hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Conclusion
Matazeez is a dish that encapsulates the comforting and delicious nature of traditional Saudi cuisine. By following this recipe, you can bring a taste of Saudi Arabia to your own kitchen. Enjoy the process of making this dish, and most importantly, enjoy the flavors and warmth it brings to your table.