How long can I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the dish and refrigerate for up to 24 hours, then bake before serving.

What can I use as a kafta substitute for a vegetarian version?

Substitute the kafta with a mixture of chickpeas and spices for a vegetarian version.

How can I ensure the potatoes cook perfectly?

Slice the potatoes evenly to ensure they cook through; consider pre-boiling if you're short on time.

Can I use chicken instead of beef or lamb for the kafta?

Yes, ground chicken is a lighter alternative and will work well with similar seasoning.

Lebanese Kafta Bil Sanieh with Tomato and Potato Layers

Name: Lebanese Kafta Bil Sanieh with Tomato and Potato Layers
Prep time: 1 h
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4
Cuisine: Main Course
Ingredients: Ground beef or lamb; Onion; Parsley; Ground allspice; Ground cumin; Salt & pepper; Potatoes; Tomatoes; Onion; Olive oil; Garlic; Crushed tomatoes; Tomato paste; Dried mint; Sugar; Salt & pepper; Water; Olive oil

Traditional Lebanese spiced meat and vegetable bake

Experience the comforting flavors of Lebanon with this hearty dish of spiced meat patties (kafta) layered with tomatoes, potatoes, and an aromatic tomato sauce.

1 h 30 min
4
Intermediate

Ingredients

For the Kafta Patties

Ground beef or lamb

500g

Onion

1 medium, finely chopped

Parsley

1/4 cup, finely chopped

Ground allspice

1 tsp

Ground cumin

1 tsp

Salt & pepper

To taste

For the Vegetable Layers

Potatoes

2 large, peeled & sliced (1/4 inch)

Tomatoes

3 large, sliced (1/4 inch)

Onion

1 large, sliced into rings

For the Tomato Sauce

Olive oil

2 tbsp

Garlic

2 cloves, minced

Crushed tomatoes

400g canned

Tomato paste

1 tbsp

Dried mint

1 tsp

Sugar

1 tsp

Salt & pepper

To taste

For the Baking

Water

1/4 cup

Olive oil

1 tbsp

Preparation

Marinating the Kafta

Combine ingredients

In a bowl, combine ground meat, onion, parsley, allspice, cumin, salt, and pepper.

Mix mixture

Mix well using hands until all ingredients are combined.

Rest the mixture

Cover and let the mixture rest in the refrigerator for 30 minutes.

For enhanced flavors, allow the kafta mixture to rest before cooking to let the spices meld together.

Preparing the Vegetables

Preheat oven

Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F).

Layer potatoes

Arrange a layer of potato slices in a greased baking dish.

Ensure slices are no more than 1/4 inch thick to cook evenly; use a mandoline for consistent thickness.

Add onions & tomatoes

Follow with a layer of onion rings, then tomato slices.

Cooking Process

Make kafta patties

Form the rested kafta mixture into small oval patties.

Cook patties 5 minutes each side on medium heat.

Sauté garlic

Heat olive oil in a pan, add garlic and sauté until fragrant.

Use medium heat.

Prepare sauce

Add crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, dried mint, sugar, salt, and pepper, and simmer for 15 minutes.

Simmer sauce on low heat for 15 minutes.

Plating & Serving