Benghazi Bliss

A Culinary Journey into Libyan Cuisine

The Benghazi Bliss is a traditional Libyan dish that encapsulates the rich flavors and cultural heritage of Benghazi, a Mediterranean port city. This dish is a staple in many Libyan households, known for its blend of aromatic spices and hearty ingredients. With its roots tracing back to ancient Mediterranean and Middle Eastern culinary traditions, the Benghazi Bliss offers a glimpse into the vibrant and diverse cooking methods that have been passed down through generations.

Ingredients

• Lamb: 1 kg, cut into chunks
• Onions: 2 large, finely chopped
• Tomatoes: 3 large, chopped
• Garlic: 4 cloves, minced
• Olive Oil: 4 tablespoons
• Cumin: 1 teaspoon
• Coriander: 1 teaspoon
• Paprika: 1 teaspoon
• Cinnamon: 1/2 teaspoon
• Salt: 1 teaspoon, or to taste
• Black Pepper: 1/2 teaspoon
• Chickpeas: 200g, soaked overnight
• Beef Stock: 500 ml
• Parsley: Chopped, for garnish
• Lemon: Wedges, for serving

Preparation

Before you begin, ensure that your lamb chunks are trimmed of excess fat and sinew. Soak the chickpeas overnight to ensure they are tender for cooking. Prepare and measure all spices and vegetables to streamline the cooking process.

Cooking Process

Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onions and sauté until they become translucent. Incorporate the garlic and continue to cook until fragrant.

Introduce the lamb chunks to the pot, allowing them to brown on all sides. This step is crucial for locking in flavor and ensuring the meat remains tender.

Add the tomatoes, cumin, coriander, paprika, cinnamon, salt, and black pepper. Stir the mixture well, ensuring the spices are evenly distributed.

Pour in the beef stock and bring the mixture to a simmer. Allow it to cook on low heat for 1.5 to 2 hours, until the lamb is tender and the flavors have melded together. Use a cooking timer to keep track of the simmering time.

In the last half hour of cooking, add the soaked chickpeas to the pot. Stir occasionally and taste for seasoning, adjusting the salt or pepper as needed.

Serving

Once the Benghazi Bliss is ready, garnish it with freshly chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges on the side. This dish pairs wonderfully with fresh, crusty bread or a side of fluffy couscous.

To truly enjoy Benghazi Bliss, gather around the table with friends and family, sharing stories and laughter. The communal aspect of enjoying this dish is as important as its taste. Embrace the warmth and comfort it brings, indulging in the complexity of flavors with every bite.