Dish

Bakalca

Beef Stew with Vegetables

Bakalca is a dish that is full of flavor and texture. The lamb is cooked until it is tender and falls apart in your mouth, and the eggplant and tomatoes add a rich and savory flavor to the dish. The dish is typically made with a blend of spices, including cumin, coriander, and paprika, which give it its signature flavor. Bakalca is a great dish to make for a crowd, as it can be easily scaled up or down depending on the number of people you are serving.

European cuisine› Mediterranean cuisine› Balkan cuisine› Bosnian cuisine

Stew

Origins and history

Bakalca is a traditional Turkish dish that has been enjoyed for centuries. It is believed to have originated in the southeastern region of Turkey, where it was a popular dish among the Kurdish people. Today, it is a staple dish in Turkish cuisine and is enjoyed by people all over the world.

Dietary considerations

Bakalca is not suitable for vegetarians or vegans as it contains lamb. It is also a spicy dish, so it may not be suitable for those with sensitive stomachs.

Variations

There are many variations of Bakalca, including versions that include potatoes or green beans. Some recipes also call for the addition of yogurt or lemon juice to the sauce. The dish can also be made with different levels of spiciness, depending on your personal preference.

Presentation and garnishing

Bakalca is traditionally served in a large clay pot, which helps to keep the dish warm. The dish is garnished with fresh herbs and spices, such as parsley and mint. To make the dish look even more impressive, you can arrange the lamb, eggplant, and tomatoes in a decorative pattern in the pot before serving.

Tips & Tricks

To make the dish even more flavorful, marinate the lamb in the spice blend overnight before cooking. This will help to infuse the meat with the flavors of the spices. You can also experiment with different types of eggplant, such as Japanese or Chinese eggplant, to find the perfect texture for the dish.

Side-dishes

Bakalca is typically served with rice or bulgur pilaf, which helps to soak up the flavorful sauce. Other traditional Turkish side dishes include cacik, a yogurt and cucumber dip, and ezme, a spicy tomato and pepper dip.

Drink pairings

A glass of red wine pairs well with Bakalca. The wine complements the rich flavors of the lamb and sauce, and helps to cut through the spiciness of the dish.