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Saltah: A Traditional Yemeni Dish

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Saltah is Yemen’s national dish, a flavorful stew made with tender meat, vegetables, and the signature fenugreek-based hilbeh paste. It’s a comforting, aromatic one-pot meal perfect for gatherings and special occasions.

Ingredients

  1. For the stew:
    1 lb lamb (or beef), cut into chunks (you can also use chicken)
    1 onion, finely chopped
    2 tomatoes, chopped
    2–3 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
    2 carrots, peeled and chopped
    1 zucchini, chopped
    1 tablespoon tomato paste
    4 cups beef or chicken broth
    2 tablespoons vegetable oil
    1 teaspoon cumin
    1 teaspoon coriander
    1 teaspoon turmeric
    1 teaspoon cinnamon
    Salt and pepper, to taste
    For the hilbeh (fenugreek paste):
    1 tablespoon fenugreek seeds
    1–2 cloves garlic, minced
    1/4 cup olive oil
    1/4 cup water
    1 tablespoon tahini (optional, for a creamier texture)
    1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (optional, for heat)
    For serving:
    Flatbread (for dipping)
    Fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

Prepare the hilbeh (fenugreek paste): Soak the fenugreek seeds in water for 4 hours or overnight. Drain and grind with garlic into a smooth paste using a mortar and pestle or small food processor. Add olive oil, tahini (optional), and chili flakes (optional). Mix well and set aside.

  1. Cook the meat and vegetables: Heat vegetable oil in a large pot. Sauté chopped onion until golden, about 5 minutes. Add the lamb (or beef) and brown the meat on all sides. Add tomatoes, tomato paste, and cook for 3-4 minutes.
  2. Simmer the stew: Add chopped potatoes, carrots, zucchini, cumin, coriander, turmeric, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Pour in broth, bring to a boil, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 45 minutes to 1 hour until meat is tender and vegetables are cooked.
  3. Incorporate the hilbeh: Add the prepared hilbeh paste to the stew, stirring well. Simmer for another 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and thicken the broth.
  4. Serve: Serve the Saltah hot, garnished with fresh cilantro and alongside flatbread for dipping. Enjoy your rich, hearty Yemeni stew!

Notes

  • Hilbeh is the defining ingredient in Saltah, and while it can be omitted, it will affect the flavor of the dish.
  • For a vegetarian version, replace the meat with chickpeas or lentils and use vegetable broth.
  • Feel free to adjust the spices and chili flakes for a milder or spicier version of Saltah.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://thefamilycooking.com/saltah-a-traditional-yemeni-dish/