Delicious Turkish Style Chickpeas with Meat

This Delicious Turkish Style Chickpeas with Meat is a hearty and flavorful dish that combines tender lamb or beef with a medley of vegetables, fresh herbs, and a creamy yogurt sauce. It’s served over warm flatbreads, making it a complete and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Rich in protein and packed with vibrant herbs, this dish is both nourishing and delicious. Let’s walk through how to create this comforting Turkish meal that will feed your body and soul!

Why This Dish is Perfect for a Hearty Meal

This recipe brings together tender cubes of meat, perfectly seasoned and simmered with vegetables and fresh herbs, all served on warm flatbreads with a tangy yogurt sauce. It’s a wonderful way to enjoy a balanced meal with a variety of flavors and textures, from the crisp vegetables to the creamy yogurt. The combination of fresh herbs like cilantro, dill, and parsley adds an aromatic burst of freshness that complements the rich meat and hearty chickpeas.

Ingredients (Serves 4-6)

• 1.1 lbs (500 g) lamb or beef, cut into small cubes
• 2 large onions, peeled and cut into thin strips
• 3 garlic cloves, finely chopped
• 1 red pepper, diced
• 1 green pepper, diced
• 3 ripe tomatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 cucumber, sliced into thin rounds (for garnish)
• 1 bunch fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 bunch fresh dill, chopped
• 1 bunch fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 cup (240 ml) natural yogurt
• 1/2 cup (120 ml) water
• 4 flatbreads (lavash or tortillas)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Olive oil, to taste

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 390
• Protein: 30 g
• Carbohydrates: 25 g
• Dietary Fiber: 5 g
• Sugars: 7 g
• Fat: 20 g
• Saturated Fat: 8 g
• Cholesterol: 90 mg
• Sodium: 300 mg

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preparing the Meat

1. Cut the meat into small cubes to ensure even cooking and to allow the meat to absorb the flavors of the seasoning.
2. Season the meat generously with salt and pepper to taste. This basic seasoning helps to enhance the meat’s natural flavors.

Step 2: Prepping the Vegetables

1. Peel and cut the onions into thin strips.
2. Chop the garlic cloves finely, and dice the red and green peppers into small cubes.
3. Peel the tomatoes by scoring an “X” on the bottom of each, blanching in boiling water for 30 seconds, and then peeling away the skin. Dice the tomatoes into small cubes.
4. Slice the cucumber into thin rounds. Set aside for garnish later.

Step 3: Cooking the Meat

1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a generous amount of olive oil.
2. Add the seasoned meat to the skillet and cook until it is golden brown on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Browning the meat develops a deep, rich flavor that’s essential for the dish.

Step 4: Adding the Vegetables

1. Once the meat is browned, add the onions and peppers to the skillet. Cook for a few minutes until the onions are soft and golden brown.
2. Add the chopped tomatoes and garlic to the pan. Stir well to combine all the ingredients, allowing the tomatoes to break down slightly and release their juices.

Step 5: Simmering the Mixture

1. Pour 1/2 cup of water into the skillet and bring the mixture to a simmer.
2. Reduce the heat to low and let it cook for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and the vegetables to soften. This step helps to create a flavorful sauce that coats the meat and vegetables.

Step 6: Incorporating Fresh Herbs

1. While the meat and vegetables are simmering, finely chop the cilantro, dill, and parsley.
2. Add the chopped herbs to the skillet and mix well. The fresh herbs add a burst of flavor and fragrance, lifting the dish with their vibrant, fresh notes.

Step 7: Preparing the Yogurt Sauce

1. In a small bowl, mix the natural yogurt with a little water until it reaches a smooth, pourable consistency.
2. Season the yogurt sauce with a pinch of salt and a squeeze of lemon juice, if desired, for extra tanginess. This sauce adds a creamy, tangy element to the dish, balancing the richness of the meat and vegetables.

Step 8: Warming the Flatbreads

1. Preheat your oven to a low setting (about 250°F or 120°C) and place the flatbreads on a baking sheet.
2. Warm them in the oven for a few minutes until they are soft and pliable. Warm flatbreads make the perfect base for soaking up the delicious juices from the meat and vegetables.

Step 9: Assembling the Dish

1. Place the warm flatbreads on a large serving plate.
2. Spoon the meat and vegetable mixture onto the flatbreads, spreading it evenly.
3. Drizzle the yogurt sauce over the top of the meat and vegetable mixture.
4. Garnish with the cucumber slices and additional fresh herbs for a beautiful and appetizing presentation.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve the dish hot, with extra yogurt sauce on the side for those who like an extra creamy touch.
• Pair with a simple green salad or a side of rice for a complete meal.

Tips for Perfect Turkish Style Chickpeas with Meat

• Adjust the Seasonings: Feel free to adjust the salt, pepper, and lemon juice to suit your taste. You can also add a pinch of cumin or paprika for an extra flavor boost.
• Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs are key in this dish; they add bright, fresh flavors that complement the richness of the meat.
• Make Ahead: The meat and vegetable mixture can be made ahead of time and reheated before serving, making it perfect for meal prep or a make-ahead dinner.

Enjoy this Delicious Turkish Style Chickpeas with Meat, a hearty and flavorful dish that’s sure to feed your body and soul!