Shish Barak (Lebanese Dumplings in Yogurt): A Delicious Culinary Journey
Welcome to a world of flavors with Shish Barak, a beloved dish from Lebanese cuisine. These delightful dumplings filled with spiced meat are served in a creamy yogurt sauce that will make your taste buds dance! Shish Barak is not just a meal; it’s a dish that carries the warmth of family gatherings and cultural celebrations.
This recipe has historical roots that trace back centuries in the Middle East, often enjoyed during special occasions and holidays. Its popularity has soared as more people discover the unique combination of flavors and textures. If you’re looking for a dish that’s sure to impress friends or family, Shish Barak is the perfect choice!
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
| All-purpose flour | 2 cups |
| Water | 3/4 cup |
| Salt | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Ground beef or lamb | 1 cup |
| Onion, finely chopped | 1 medium |
| Spices (cinnamon, allspice) | 1 teaspoon each |
| Plain yogurt | 4 cups |
| Garlic, minced | 2 cloves |
| Mint (dried or fresh) | 1 tablespoon |
| Olive oil | 1 tablespoon |
If you’re looking for alternatives, you can use ground turkey instead of beef or lamb for a healthier option. For the yogurt, Greek yogurt works perfectly too!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Make the Dough: In a bowl, mix the all-purpose flour, salt, and water. Knead until you have a smooth dough. Cover and let it rest for 30 minutes.
- Prepare the Filling: In a pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onion until golden. Add the ground meat, cinnamon, and allspice. Cook until the meat is browned and cooked through. Allow to cool.
- Shape the Dumplings: Roll the dough thinly on a floured surface. Use a round cutter or glass to cut out circles (about 3 inches wide). Place a teaspoon of the meat filling in the center of each circle.
- Seal the Dumplings: Fold the dough over the filling, pinching the edges to seal tightly. Repeat until all the dough and filling are used.
- Prepare the Yogurt Sauce: In a pot, combine the yogurt, minced garlic, and mint. Heat gently until warm, but do not boil.
- Cook the Dumplings: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the dumplings and cook for 5-7 minutes until they float to the top. Use a slotted spoon to remove them.
- Serve: Place the cooked dumplings in a bowl and pour the yogurt sauce over them. Enjoy your delicious Shish Barak!
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount | Daily Value (%) |
| Calories | 300 | 15% |
| Protein | 20g | 40% |
| Carbohydrates | 35g | 12% |
| Fats | 10g | 15% |
| Fiber | 2g | 8% |
Tips and Tricks
- To make the dumplings easier to seal, lightly moisten the edges with water.
- For extra flavor, you can add chopped parsley to the meat filling.
- If you want more sauce, increase the yogurt proportion and adjust the garlic and mint to taste.
- Avoid overcrowding the pot while cooking dumplings; cook them in batches for even cooking.
FAQs
What is Shish Barak?
Shish Barak is a traditional Lebanese dish made of dumplings filled with spiced meat and served in a creamy yogurt sauce.
Can I use chicken instead of beef or lamb?
Yes! You can easily substitute ground chicken for a lighter version of Shish Barak.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover Shish Barak in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I freeze Shish Barak?
Absolutely! Freeze uncooked dumplings on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. They can be cooked straight from frozen.
What spices are traditional in the filling?
The traditional spices for the filling include cinnamon and allspice, adding a warm flavor to the meat.
Is Shish Barak vegetarian-friendly?
Yes! You can make a vegetarian version using mushrooms or lentils as a filling instead of meat.
What kind of yogurt is best to use?
Plain yogurt is best, but you can also use Greek yogurt for a thicker sauce.
How can I make Shish Barak spicier?
Add red pepper flakes or black pepper to the meat filling for an extra kick!
Can I prepare Shish Barak ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the dumplings and sauce ahead of time, keeping them separate until ready to serve.
What is the best side dish to serve with Shish Barak?
Shish Barak is great on its own, but it pairs well with a fresh salad or warm pita bread.
Now that you have all the ingredients and steps to make this delicious dish, it’s time to try your hand at cooking Shish Barak. Not only will you impress your family and friends, but you will also experience a taste of Lebanese culture right in your kitchen!
