Armenian-style Meat Sauce

Ingredients

In this Armenian adaptation, the traditional Italian meat-based sauce is infused with Armenian flavors and spices. The addition of paprika, cumin, and cinnamon gives the sauce a unique and distinct taste. The use of beef broth instead of wine adds depth to the flavors, while still maintaining the richness of the original dish. We alse have the original recipe for Meat-based Sauce, so you can check it out.

• 500g (1.1 lb) ground meat (beef or lamb) 500g (1.1 lb) ground meat (beef or lamb)
• 1 large onion, finely chopped 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 cup (240ml) beef broth 1 cup (240ml) beef broth
• 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon cumin 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil for cooking Olive oil for cooking

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 350 kcal / 1465 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 20g, 7g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 8g, 3g
• Protein: 35g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. 2.
   Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and sauté until golden brown.
3. 3.
   Add the ground meat to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon.
4. 4.
   Stir in the tomato paste, paprika, cumin, and cinnamon, and cook for another 2 minutes.
5. 5.
   Pour in the beef broth and season with salt and pepper.
6. 6.
   Reduce the heat to low and simmer the sauce for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
7. 7.
   Adjust the seasoning if needed.
8. 8.
   Serve the Armenian-style meat sauce over pasta or rice.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Ground meat — Use lean ground beef or lamb for a healthier option. Make sure to brown the meat well for added flavor.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier version, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes.
• Serve the meat sauce with a dollop of plain yogurt on top for a creamy twist.
• Leftover sauce can be frozen and used for future meals.

Serving advice

Serve the Armenian-style meat sauce over a bed of fluffy rice or with your favorite pasta. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro for a pop of color.

Presentation advice

Present the meat sauce in a deep serving dish, allowing the rich red color to shine through. Sprinkle some paprika on top for an extra touch of elegance.