Makanek Tacos

Ingredients

In this adaptation, the traditional Lebanese makanek sausage is transformed into a filling for tacos. The original dish is typically served as a standalone sausage dish, while the adaptation incorporates the flavors of the makanek into a taco format. The addition of the tomato-onion-parsley topping, tahini sauce, and sumac further enhances the fusion of flavors. We alse have the original recipe for Makanek, so you can check it out.

• 1 lb (450g) ground lamb or beef 1 lb (450g) ground lamb or beef
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon ground allspice 1 teaspoon ground allspice
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon olive oil 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 8 small tortillas 8 small tortillas
• 1 tomato, diced 1 tomato, diced
• 1/2 red onion, finely chopped 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• Tahini sauce, for drizzling Tahini sauce, for drizzling
• Sumac, for sprinkling Sumac, for sprinkling

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 350 kcal / 1465 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 25g, 9g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 12g, 2g
• Protein: 20g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 0.8g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a bowl, combine the ground lamb or beef, cinnamon, allspice, nutmeg, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until the spices are evenly distributed.
2. 2.
   Shape the meat mixture into small sausage-shaped pieces, about 2 inches long.
3. 3.
   Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the makanek sausages and cook until browned and cooked through, about 8-10 minutes.
4. 4.
   Warm the tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave.
5. 5.
   To assemble the tacos, place a few makanek sausages in each tortilla. Top with diced tomatoes, chopped red onion, and fresh parsley.
6. 6.
   Drizzle tahini sauce over the tacos and sprinkle with sumac.
7. 7.
   Serve the Makanek Tacos warm and enjoy!

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Ground lamb or beef — Make sure to use lean ground meat for a healthier option. If you prefer a stronger flavor, you can mix equal parts lamb and beef.
• Tahini sauce — If the tahini sauce is too thick, you can thin it out with a little water or lemon juice until it reaches your desired consistency.

Tips & Tricks

• For added crunch, you can lightly toast the tortillas before assembling the tacos.
• If you prefer a spicier kick, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the makanek sausage mixture.
• Customize your toppings by adding sliced avocado, pickled jalapenos, or a squeeze of lime juice.

Serving advice

Serve the Makanek Tacos as a main course for a casual lunch or dinner. Accompany them with a side of crispy fries or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Presentation advice

Arrange the Makanek Tacos on a platter, garnished with a sprinkle of sumac and a sprig of fresh parsley. Serve them with a side of tahini sauce for dipping.