Meat Stew

Etli Guvek Recipe - A Traditional Delicacy with Meat and Vegetables

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 3-4 hours
Total time: 3 hours and 20 minutes
Number of servings: 4-6 servings

Etli Guvek is a flavorful recipe that combines tender lamb meat with delicious vegetables, slow-cooked in the oven for a melt-in-your-mouth result. This traditional dish brings together simple yet exceptionally tasty ingredients in a comforting manner. It is perfect for a family meal or to impress guests. Let’s begin our culinary journey!

Ingredients

- 1 kg lean lamb meat - Lamb is ideal for this dish due to its rich flavor. Choose fresh, high-quality meat for the best results.
- 3 large potatoes - Potatoes will add a creamy texture and absorb the delicious juices from the dish.
- 8 large mushrooms - Mushrooms bring an umami flavor and pair perfectly with the other ingredients.
- 1 medium onion - The onion is the base of flavors and will provide a sweet taste after cooking.
- 3-4 cloves of garlic - Garlic adds depth and flavor.
- 1 eggplant - Eggplant offers a soft, creamy texture, enriching the dish.
- 1 red bell pepper - The red pepper will add a touch of sweetness and color.
- 1 green bell pepper - This provides a pleasant contrast of flavor and a bit of crunch.
- 1 teaspoon salt - Salt is essential for enhancing flavors.
- 1/4 teaspoon cumin - Cumin adds a warm, slightly spicy flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried mint - Mint offers an unexpected freshness that balances the dish.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper - Black pepper adds warmth and a bit of spice.
- 2 bay leaves - Bay leaves are a classic ingredient that enriches the dish's aroma.
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika - Paprika will provide a beautiful color and a delicate smoky flavor.
- 1/4 teaspoon oregano - Oregano adds a herbaceous note that perfectly complements the dish.
- 3 tablespoons olive oil - Olive oil is ideal for sautéing vegetables and adding a touch of health.
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste - Tomato paste will transform the sauce into a flavor explosion, binding all the ingredients together.
- Optional: Grated cheese and black/red chili flakes - for a delicious and spicy finish.

Necessary utensils

- Deep baking tray
- Kitchen knife
- Chopping board
- Mixing glass
- Aluminum foil

Step by step

1. Preparing the meat
Start by cutting the lamb meat into medium cubes. Make sure to remove any visible fat for a healthier dish. Place the meat cubes in a deep baking tray.

2. Preparing the vegetables
Clean and wash all the vegetables. Cut the potatoes, eggplant, and peppers into medium cubes, and slice the mushrooms. The onion and garlic can be finely chopped to release their flavors.

3. Adding the vegetables
Place the chopped vegetables over the meat, starting with the onion and garlic, followed by the potatoes, eggplant, peppers, and mushrooms. Each ingredient will bring flavor and texture.

4. Preparing the sauce
In a glass, dilute the tomato paste with water. Add the salt, cumin, mint, black pepper, bay leaves, paprika, and oregano. Mix well to obtain a homogeneous and aromatic sauce.

5. Assembling the dish
Pour the sauce over the vegetables and meat in the tray, ensuring everything is evenly covered. Drizzle with olive oil to add flavor and help cook the vegetables.

6. Covering and baking
Cover the tray with aluminum foil, folding the edges to prevent juice leakage. Poke the foil a few times to allow steam to escape. Preheat the oven to 180°C and place the tray inside. Let it bake for 3-4 hours. This long cooking time will make the meat extremely tender and the vegetables a delicacy.

7. Finishing the dish
After the baking time has elapsed, take the tray out of the oven and mix the ingredients well. The meat should be so tender that it easily falls apart with a fork.

8. Creative serving
Divide the dish into clay bowls, sprinkle grated cheese and chili flakes on top for a spicy flavor. Place the bowls in the oven for a few minutes until the cheese melts and becomes golden.

Serving suggestions

Etli Guvek is usually served with boiled rice, which absorbs the delicious juices. You can complement the meal with a fresh salad or yogurt to balance the flavors. A glass of red wine or refreshing lemonade are excellent options to accompany this dish.

Nutritional benefits

This recipe is rich in protein due to the lamb meat and contains a variety of vegetables that provide vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Olive oil brings healthy fats, and the spices used are not only flavorful but also beneficial for health.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use another type of meat?
Yes, you can use beef or chicken, but the cooking time will vary. Make sure to check the tenderness of the meat.

2. How long can I keep the dish?
Etli Guvek can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, and the flavor improves the next day.

3. Is this recipe suitable for my diet?
The dish is rich in protein and vegetables, making it a healthy choice. Adjust the amount of salt and oil if you are following a strict regime.

Variations

To add a personal twist to your recipe, you can experiment with different vegetables, such as zucchini or hot peppers. You can also try adding some olives for a Mediterranean flavor. If you prefer a stronger taste, add some extra spices, such as cinnamon or nutmeg.

In conclusion, Etli Guvek is a recipe that will not only delight your taste buds but will also become a family favorite. Slow cooking brings the flavors of the ingredients to life and transforms any meal into a memorable experience. So, I wish you good luck in cooking and bon appétit!