Iraqi Lahm Bi Ajeen – How to Make Iraqi Meat Flatbread

Iraqi Lahm Bi Ajeen – How to Make Iraqi Meat Flatbread

Iraqi Lahm Bi Ajeen, or meat flatbread, is a popular dish in many Iraqi cities, often enjoyed as a savory and satisfying meal. This easy recipe allows you to make this delicious dish at home without the need for complex ingredients or lengthy dough fermentation. Let’s dive into the step-by-step guide to preparing this dish just like in traditional Iraqi kitchens.

Ingredients for Iraqi Lahm Bi Ajeen

For the Meat Filling:

• 3 onions, finely chopped in a blender
• Salt to taste
• Minced meat (amount as desired)
• A small amount of lamb fat (optional but recommended for flavor)
• 4 tablespoons tomato paste
• Black pepper to taste

For the Dough:

• Flour (approximately 250 grams, or as needed)
• Baking powder
• Cold water

Steps to Prepare Iraqi Lahm Bi Ajeen:

1. Prepare the Onions: Add a tablespoon of salt to the finely chopped onions and place them in a strainer to remove all the excess water.

2. Make the Dough: In a large glass bowl, add the flour and baking powder to achieve a soft and pliable dough. Gradually add enough cold water to the flour to create a dough that is easy to knead. Knead the dough for about 5 minutes, then let it rest for another 5 minutes. Once rested, shape the dough into a cylindrical form, cut it into equal portions, and roll each piece into small balls, ready for rolling out.

3. Prepare the Meat Filling: In a separate glass bowl, mix the minced meat with about 100 grams of lamb fat. Add the drained onions, tomato paste, and sprinkle black pepper evenly over the filling mixture. Mix thoroughly to combine all the ingredients.

4. Shape and Fill the Dough: Lightly dust your work surface with flour and roll each dough ball into a thin, circular shape. Spread the meat filling evenly on top of each rolled dough, ensuring the filling reaches the edges.

5. Cook the Lahm Bi Ajeen: Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook each flatbread on one side until the bottom is well browned. Then transfer the flatbread to the oven to finish cooking the top side until done.

And there you have it! Your Iraqi Lahm Bi Ajeen is ready to enjoy, just like from a traditional Iraqi eatery. Bon appétit!