Bahraini-inspired Tirtlan

Ingredients

In this Bahraini-inspired version of Tirtlan, we incorporate the flavors and spices commonly found in Bahraini cuisine. The original Romanian Tirtlan is typically made with a different set of spices and ingredients, such as pork and paprika. By adapting the recipe to Bahraini cuisine, we replace the pork with lamb and introduce Bahraini spices like baharat and turmeric, giving the dish a unique and vibrant flavor profile. We alse have the original recipe for Tirtlan, so you can check it out.

• For the dough: For the dough:
• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon saffron threads 1/2 teaspoon saffron threads
• 1/2 cup (120ml) warm water 1/2 cup (120ml) warm water
• 2 tablespoons olive oil 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt
• For the filling: For the filling:
• 1 pound (450g) ground lamb 1 pound (450g) ground lamb
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon baharat spice mix 1 teaspoon baharat spice mix
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 450 kcal / 1884 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 25g, 9g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 30g, 2g
• Protein: 25g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a small bowl, dissolve the saffron threads in warm water and let it infuse for 10 minutes.
2. 2.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, saffron-infused water, olive oil, and salt. Knead the dough until it becomes smooth and elastic. Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for 30 minutes.
3. 3.
   In a skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until they become translucent.
4. 4.
   Add the ground lamb to the skillet and cook until it is browned and cooked through. Stir in the baharat spice mix, turmeric, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Remove from heat and let the filling cool.
5. 5.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
6. 6.
   Divide the dough into small balls and roll each ball into a thin circle.
7. 7.
   Place a spoonful of the lamb filling onto one half of the dough circle, leaving a small border around the edges.
8. 8.
   Fold the other half of the dough over the filling and press the edges together to seal the Tirtlan.
9. 9.
   Place the Tirtlan on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the pastry turns golden brown.
10. 10.
    Remove from the oven and let the Tirtlan cool for a few minutes before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Saffron — To extract the maximum flavor and color from saffron threads, soak them in warm water for at least 10 minutes before using.
• Baharat spice mix — If you can't find baharat spice mix, you can make your own by combining equal parts ground cinnamon, cloves, cumin, coriander, and paprika.

Tips & Tricks

• For a vegetarian version, replace the ground lamb with cooked lentils or chickpeas.
• Serve the Tirtlan with a side of yogurt or a refreshing cucumber and mint salad.
• Experiment with different spices and herbs to customize the flavor of the filling according to your preference.
• If you prefer a spicier Tirtlan, add a pinch of chili powder or cayenne pepper to the filling.
• Make a larger batch of Tirtlan and freeze the extras for a quick and delicious meal later on.

Serving advice

Serve the Bahraini-inspired Tirtlan warm as a main course or as an appetizer. Accompany it with a side of yogurt or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Presentation advice

Arrange the Tirtlan on a platter, garnished with a sprinkle of chopped fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro. The golden color of the pastry and the aromatic filling will make for an enticing presentation.