Mkatra Foutra with a Saudi Twist

Ingredients

In this Saudi Arabian adaptation of Mkatra Foutra, we incorporate traditional Saudi ingredients and spices to infuse the dish with a unique flavor profile. The original Algerian version typically uses Algerian spices and ingredients, while this adaptation introduces Saudi spices and ingredients to create a fusion of flavors. We alse have the original recipe for Mkatra foutra, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (400g) semolina 2 cups (400g) semolina
• 1 lb (450g) ground beef 1 lb (450g) ground beef
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon ground cardamom 1 teaspoon ground cardamom
• 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup (60ml) tomato paste 1/4 cup (60ml) tomato paste
• 2 cups (470ml) beef broth 2 cups (470ml) beef broth
• Fresh parsley, for garnish Fresh parsley, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 450 kcal / 1884 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 25g, 8g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 30g, 3g
• Protein: 30g
• Fiber: 4g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large bowl, combine the semolina with a pinch of salt and enough water to moisten it. Mix well until the semolina forms small clumps. Set aside.
2. 2.
   In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until golden brown.
3. 3.
   Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon.
4. 4.
   Stir in the tomato paste, ground cumin, ground coriander, ground cinnamon, ground cardamom, salt, and black pepper. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
5. 5.
   Pour in the beef broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the liquid has reduced and thickened slightly.
6. 6.
   Meanwhile, steam the semolina in a couscous steamer or a colander placed over a pot of boiling water. Steam for about 20 minutes, or until the semolina is fluffy and cooked through.
7. 7.
   To serve, spread a layer of the steamed semolina on a serving platter. Top with the ground beef mixture and garnish with fresh parsley.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Semolina — Make sure to moisten the semolina with just enough water to form small clumps. Avoid adding too much water, as it may result in a mushy texture.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier kick, add a pinch of chili powder or cayenne pepper to the ground beef mixture.
• Serve the Mkatra Foutra with a side of tangy yogurt or a fresh cucumber and tomato salad for a refreshing contrast of flavors.
• If you prefer a vegetarian version, you can substitute the ground beef with cooked lentils or chickpeas for a protein-rich alternative.
• Experiment with different spices and herbs to customize the flavor profile of the dish to your liking.
• Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated the next day for a delicious and convenient meal.

Serving advice

Serve the Mkatra Foutra hot, straight from the serving platter. Accompany it with a side of tangy yogurt or a fresh cucumber and tomato salad for a complete and satisfying meal.

Presentation advice

To enhance the presentation, garnish the Mkatra Foutra with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a drizzle of olive oil. You can also serve it in individual portions for a more elegant presentation.