Sinia Gushi

Background and History

Sinia Gushi, a traditional Middle Eastern dish, carries a rich history of cultural interchanges and regional adaptations. Known for its hearty and wholesome flavors, it is beloved in many countries including Jordan, Lebanon, and Syria. The dish primarily consists of a meat and vegetable mixture, typically lamb, green peppers, and onion, baked in a savory sauce. Each family and region has made this dish their own, often tailoring it with local spices and herbs.

Ingredients

• Lamb - 1 kg, minced
• Green peppers - 2 large, diced
• Onion - 1 large, finely chopped
• Garlic - 4 cloves, minced
• Tomato - 3 large, chopped
• Potato - 2, thinly sliced
• Olive oil - 4 tablespoons
• Salt - 1 teaspoon
• Black pepper - 1/2 teaspoon
• Cinnamon - 1/2 teaspoon
• Allspice - 1 teaspoon
• Parsley - 1/2 cup, chopped
• Pita bread - to serve
• Lemon - to serve

Preparation

Preparing the Ingredients

To begin, ensure you have all your ingredients ready. Start by preparing the lamb. Mince it thoroughly to achieve a consistent texture. Dice the green peppers and finely chop the onion. Mince the garlic, and chop the tomatoes into small cubes. Slice the potatoes as thinly as possible to allow for even cooking.

Marinating the Meat

Place the minced lamb into a large mixing bowl. Add the chopped onion, garlic, and half of the parsley. Season with salt, black pepper, cinnamon, and allspice. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly integrated. Let the mixture marinate for about 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

Cooking Process

Layering and Baking

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Drizzle a baking dish with olive oil. Arrange the thinly sliced potatoes at the bottom of the baking dish to form an even layer. This serves as a base which will absorb the flavors of the meat. Next, layer half of the diced tomatoes and green peppers over the potatoes.

Take the marinated lamb mixture and press it evenly over the vegetable layer. Once the meat is evenly spread, top it with the remaining green peppers and tomatoes.

Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil to keep the moisture in. Place it in the oven and bake for approximately 60 minutes. This will ensure the lamb is tender and the vegetables are perfectly cooked. Check the doneness by inserting a fork; the meat should be fully cooked and the vegetables softened.

Final Touches

Remove the foil and increase the oven temperature to allow the top to brown slightly, around 10-15 more minutes. Keep a watchful eye to prevent burning. Once browned to your liking, remove the Sinia Gushi from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

Serving Suggestions

To serve, sprinkle the remaining parsley over the top for a burst of freshness. Accompany the dish with warm pita bread and wedges of lemon on the side. The zesty lemon juice squeezed over the meat will enhance the aromatic spices, providing a lovely contrast.

Gather family and friends around as you enjoy this traditional meal. For an authentic experience, consider sitting on a floor cushion with the dish in front of you, and use the pita bread to scoop up the delicious mixture. Take the time to savor each bite, appreciating the rich history and skill contained within this humble dish.