Assyrian-inspired Tapas

Ingredients

While Spanish tapas are typically characterized by ingredients like olives, cured meats, and seafood, Assyrian-inspired Tapas incorporates traditional Assyrian spices, herbs, and ingredients such as sumac, pomegranate molasses, lamb, and chickpeas. The flavors are bolder and more aromatic, reflecting the unique taste profile of Assyrian cuisine. We alse have the original recipe for Tapas, so you can check it out.

• 500g (1.1 lb) lamb, cubed 500g (1.1 lb) lamb, cubed
• 2 tablespoons olive oil 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon ground paprika 1 teaspoon ground paprika
• 1 teaspoon ground sumac 1 teaspoon ground sumac
• 1 tablespoon pomegranate molasses 1 tablespoon pomegranate molasses
• 1 cup cooked chickpeas 1 cup cooked chickpeas
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 350 kcal / 1465 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 18g, 5g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 15g, 3g
• Protein: 30g
• Fiber: 4g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sauté until golden brown.
2. 2.
   Add the cubed lamb to the skillet and cook until browned on all sides.
3. 3.
   Sprinkle ground cumin, coriander, paprika, and sumac over the lamb. Stir well to coat the meat evenly with the spices.
4. 4.
   Pour in the pomegranate molasses and stir to combine. Allow the flavors to meld together for a few minutes.
5. 5.
   Add the cooked chickpeas to the skillet and cook for an additional 5 minutes, until heated through.
6. 6.
   Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. 7.
   Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Lamb — For tender and flavorful lamb, marinate the cubed meat in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and Assyrian spices for at least 2 hours before cooking.
• Sumac — Sumac adds a tangy and citrusy flavor to the dish. If you can't find sumac, you can substitute it with lemon zest for a similar taste.

Tips & Tricks

• Serve the Assyrian-inspired Tapas with warm flatbread or pita for a complete meal.
• Experiment with different Assyrian spices and herbs to customize the flavors according to your preference.
• For a vegetarian version, substitute the lamb with grilled eggplant or roasted cauliflower.

Serving advice

Arrange the Assyrian-inspired Tapas on a large platter, allowing guests to help themselves and create their own combinations. Serve with a side of yogurt or tzatziki sauce for dipping.

Presentation advice

Present the tapas on a rustic wooden board or a colorful ceramic platter to showcase the vibrant colors and textures of the dishes. Garnish with fresh herbs and sprinkle sumac on top for an extra pop of color.