Indulge in the heartwarming flavors of Tashreeb Dajaj, a traditional Middle Eastern dish that combines succulent chicken with pieces of bread soaked in a rich, aromatic broth. This stew is a beloved comfort food, perfect for family gatherings and special occasions, offering a delightful blend of spices and textures that will transport your taste buds to the heart of the Middle East.
Preparation and Cooking Times
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
Servings and Serving Size
- Servings: 6
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Protein: 25g
- Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sodium: 700mg
Ingredients
- 1 whole chicken (about 1.5 kg / 3.3 lbs), cut into pieces
- 3 large onions, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 large tomatoes, chopped
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 2 teaspoons ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 pieces of flatbread (such as pita or naan), torn into large pieces
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Method of Preparation
- Prepare the Chicken: Heat vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and brown them on all sides. Remove the chicken and set aside.
- Cook the Onions and Garlic: In the same pot, add the chopped onions and cook until they are soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Add Tomatoes and Spices: Stir in the chopped tomatoes, tomato paste, ground cumin, coriander, turmeric, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the spices to release their aroma.
- Combine and Simmer: Return the chicken to the pot and pour in the chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 1 hour, or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
- Prepare the Bread: While the stew is simmering, tear the flatbread into large pieces and arrange them in a large serving bowl.
- Assemble the Dish: Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the pot and shred it into smaller pieces. Place the shredded chicken on top of the bread pieces. Pour the hot broth and vegetables over the chicken and bread, ensuring the bread soaks up the flavorful broth.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro and serve immediately.
Tips for Culinary Success
- Bread Choice: Use slightly stale bread for better absorption of the broth.
- Broth Flavor: For an extra rich broth, simmer the chicken bones in the broth for additional flavor before adding the other ingredients.
- Spice Variation: Adjust the spices according to your taste preferences. Adding a pinch of ground cardamom or a splash of lemon juice can enhance the flavor profile.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use boneless chicken?
- Yes, boneless chicken can be used, but cooking times may be reduced.
What type of bread works best for Tashreeb?
- Flatbreads like pita, naan, or even leftover homemade bread work well.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
- Absolutely. Substitute the chicken with hearty vegetables like eggplant and potatoes, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
How do I store leftovers?
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Embrace the warmth and tradition of Tashreeb Dajaj, a dish that brings comfort and joy to the table. Each bite is a reminder of the rich culinary heritage of the Middle East, where simple ingredients are transformed into a feast for the senses. Serve this delightful stew to your loved ones and create lasting memories with every spoonful.