Fattah

Savor the rich flavors of Middle Eastern Fattah, a hearty dish of tender lamb or beef layered with fragrant rice and crispy pita, topped with creamy yogurt. Ideal for festive gatherings or a comforting weeknight dinner.

• 1 kg lamb shoulder or beef
• 4 cups water
• 1 cup rice
• 4 pieces pita bread
• 1 cup yogurt
• 2 tablespoons vinegar
• 2 tablespoons ghee or butter
• 1 teaspoon garlic

Method

1. 1

   In a large pot, add the meat and cover it with water. Bring to a boil and then reduce to a simmer for about 1.5 hours until the meat is tender.

2. 2

   Once the meat is cooked, remove it from the pot and set aside. Strain the broth and reserve it for later.

3. 3

   In the same pot, add the rice to the reserved broth and cook until the rice absorbs the liquid and is tender, about 20 minutes.

4. 4

   While the rice is cooking, heat ghee or butter in a separate pan and fry the minced garlic until fragrant. Add the cooked rice to the pan and stir gently.

5. 5

   Toast or fry the pita bread pieces until they are crispy. You can break them into smaller pieces if desired.

6. 6

   Once everything is ready, layer the toasted pita at the bottom of a serving dish, then add the flavored rice, and top with the tender meat.

7. 7

   Drizzle the yogurt and vinegar over the top just before serving for added flavor.