Imagine sinking your teeth into a perfectly golden-brown meat patty bursting with aromatic spices and rich, tender meat - that's exactly what you'll experience with Arook, a mouthwatering Iraqi culinary treasure! These delectable meat patties are more than just a dish; they're a delicious journey through traditional Middle Eastern cuisine that will have your family and friends begging for seconds. Whether you're a adventurous foodie or simply looking to expand your cooking repertoire, these Iraqi meat patties promise an explosion of flavor that will revolutionize your dinner routine.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: Iraqi
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef or lamb
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- Oil for frying
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef or lamb with finely chopped onion and freshly chopped parsley.
- Add cumin, salt, and black pepper to the meat mixture. Mix thoroughly using your hands to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Knead the meat mixture for 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and slightly sticky, which helps the patties hold together during cooking.
- Wet your hands with cold water to prevent the meat from sticking while shaping the patties.
- Form the meat mixture into small oval or round flat patties, approximately 2-3 inches in diameter and about 1/2 inch thick.
- Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, ensuring the bottom is evenly coated.
- Carefully place the meat patties in the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan.
- Cook the patties for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they develop a golden-brown crust and are cooked through.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) for food safety.
- Remove the patties from the skillet and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil.
- Let the patties rest for 3-4 minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.
- Serve hot with rice, flatbread, or a fresh salad as a traditional Iraqi accompaniment.
Tips
- Choose high-quality ground meat with a slight fat content (around 15-20%) to ensure juicy, flavorful patties.
- When kneading the meat mixture, use cold hands or periodically rinse them in cold water to prevent the meat from becoming too warm.
- For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of ground coriander or a splash of fresh lemon juice to the meat mixture.
- Use a meat thermometer to guarantee food safety and perfectly cooked patties every time.
- If you prefer a leaner option, you can grill these patties instead of frying for a healthier preparation.
- Allow the patties to rest after cooking to help retain their moisture and enhance their overall texture.
- Serve with a cooling yogurt sauce or tahini for an authentic Iraqi dining experience.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: mg
