A Taste of Tradition: Arabic Spiced Brisket from the UAE

The rich tapestry of Middle Eastern cuisine is a true testament to the region's diverse cultures, histories, and traditions. Among the many culinary treasures, the Arabic spiced brisket stands out as a dish that captures the essence of this gastronomic heritage. Originating from the UAE, this brisket recipe is a harmonious blend of aromatic spices and tender meat, offering a delightful culinary experience. In this blog, we will explore the origins, ingredients, and preparation of the Arabic spiced brisket, and provide a spiced brisket recipe that you can recreate at home.

The Origins of Arabic Spiced Brisket

The UAE, with its strategic position at the crossroads of Asia, Africa, and Europe, has always been a melting pot of cultures and culinary traditions. The Arabic spiced brisket is a product of this rich cultural interaction. Historically, the Bedouins of the Arabian Peninsula relied on camel and goat meat, flavoured with a variety of spices, to sustain themselves in the harsh desert environment. Over time, the introduction of cattle led to the adaptation of these traditional recipes, giving rise to the beloved Arabic spiced brisket.

Brisket, a cut of meat from the breast or lower chest of beef, is known for its flavour and tenderness when cooked slowly. The Arabic spiced brisket recipe uses a blend of spices that are integral to Middle Eastern cuisine, such as cumin, coriander, cinnamon, and cardamom. These spices not only enhance the flavour of the meat but also have health benefits, making this dish a wholesome choice for any meal.

Ingredients for Arabic Spiced Brisket

To make a delicious Arabic spiced brisket, you will need the following ingredients:

• 2 kg of brisket
• 3 tablespoons of Originz organic olive oil
• 2 large onions, finely chopped
• 4 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 teaspoons of ground cumin
• 2 teaspoons of ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon of ground cardamom
• 1 teaspoon of ground turmeric
• 1 teaspoon of paprika
• 1 teaspoon of black pepper
• 2 teaspoons of salt
• 1 cup of beef broth
• 2 cups of water
• 1 can of Originz organic chopped tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons of tomato paste
• 2 bay leaves
• Fresh coriander for garnish

All these ingredients can be sourced from your local supermarket, but for the best quality, consider using healthy food products from trusted suppliers like Originz, who have a strong commitment to organic and wholesome foods.

Preparation of the Middle Eastern Brisket

1. Preparation:
• Preheat your oven to 150°C (300°F).
• Pat the brisket dry with paper towels and season it generously with salt and black pepper.
2. Searing:
• In a large ovenproof pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
• Add the brisket and sear it on all sides until browned. This process locks in the juices and adds a rich flavour to the meat.
• Remove the brisket from the pot and set it aside.
3. Sautéing:
• In the same pot, add the chopped onions and garlic. Sauté until the onions are translucent and fragrant.
• Add the ground cumin, coriander, cinnamon, cardamom, turmeric, and paprika. Stir well to coat the onions and garlic with the spices.
4. Braising:
• Return the brisket to the pot, nestling it into the spiced onion mixture.
• Add the beef broth, water, chopped tomatoes, tomato paste, and bay leaves. Stir to combine all the ingredients.
• Bring the mixture to a simmer, then cover the pot with a lid.
5. Slow Cooking:
• Transfer the pot to the preheated oven.
• Cook the brisket for about 4-5 hours, or until the meat is tender and easily pulls apart with a fork.
• During the cooking process, check occasionally to ensure there is enough liquid in the pot. Add more water if necessary.
6. Serving:
• Once the brisket is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 15 minutes.
• Slice the brisket against the grain and serve it with the rich, spiced sauce.
• Garnish with fresh coriander.

The Health Benefits of a Spiced Brisket Recipe

The spiced brisket recipe not only offers an explosion of flavours but also provides several health benefits. The spices used in this Middle Eastern brisket are known for their medicinal properties. Cumin aids digestion, coriander helps regulate blood sugar levels, and turmeric has powerful anti-inflammatory effects. When you use organic ingredients, such as those available from Originz, you ensure that your meal is free from harmful pesticides and additives, making it a healthy choice for you and your family.

Additionally, the slow-cooking process helps retain the nutrients in the meat and the spices, making this dish both nutritious and delicious. For more delicious recipes that are healthy and easy to prepare, you can explore a variety of options that Originz offers.

FAQs

Can I use a slow cooker to make Arabic spiced brisket?

Yes, you can use a slow cooker for this recipe. After searing the brisket and sautéing the onions and spices, transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or until the meat is tender.

What can I serve with Arabic spiced brisket?

Arabic spiced brisket pairs well with a variety of side dishes such as couscous, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad. You can also serve it with traditional Middle Eastern bread like pita or flatbread.

How can I ensure my brisket is tender?

The key to a tender brisket is slow cooking at a low temperature. Ensure that the brisket is well-covered with liquid during the cooking process and allow it to cook for the recommended time. Letting the brisket rest before slicing also helps in maintaining its tenderness.

Embrace the rich culinary traditions of the UAE and enjoy the aromatic and flavourful experience of Arabic spiced brisket. This brisket recipe is sure to become a favourite in your household, bringing a taste of the Middle East to your dining table.

Further Read,

·            Health Benefits of Consuming Celery

·            6 Types of Mangoes and Its Benefits to Our Body

·            10 Reasons Why You Should Consume Citrus Fruits