Rakak Bread with Minced Meat Casserole – Ingredients and Preparation Method

Rakak Bread with Minced Meat Casserole – Ingredients and Preparation Method

Rakak bread is a type of flatbread commonly used in many dishes across the Arab world, known by different names depending on the country. It's often served with dishes like mansaf or musakhan. This dish combines the crispy texture of rakak bread with a flavorful minced meat filling, making it both delicious and nutritious.

In this article from Arabi Cook (Arabicook.com), we will provide the ingredients and step-by-step preparation method for a minced meat rakak bread casserole.

Ingredients for Rakak Bread with Minced Meat:

For the Dough:

• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 cups flour (600 grams)
• 1 cup water (200 ml)

For the Filling:

• 500 grams minced meat
• 1 teaspoon mixed spices and salt
• ½ teaspoon turmeric, black pepper, and ground cardamom
• 1.5 cups chicken or meat broth
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• A small amount of clarified butter (smen)

Preparation Method:

Prepare the Dough:

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the water, salt, and flour. Mix on medium speed until a smooth dough forms.
2. Lower the speed and continue mixing until the dough becomes elastic and stretchy.
3. Divide the dough into 10-12 pieces and shape them into balls.
4. Place the dough balls on a cotton cloth dusted with flour, cover them with another cloth, and let them rest for 30 minutes to an hour.
5. Roll each dough ball into thin, round sheets.
6. Preheat a griddle (or a flat pan) over medium heat. Place each sheet of dough on the griddle, flipping after a few seconds to cook both sides. Repeat for all the dough balls.

Prepare the Filling:

1. Heat the chicken or meat broth and pour it into a large baking dish with high sides.
2. In a medium-sized pot, heat a small amount of oil over medium heat and add the minced meat.
3. Sauté the meat until it releases its moisture and begins to brown. Add cardamom, black pepper, mixed spices, salt, chopped onion, and turmeric. Cook until the onions soften and the meat is fully cooked.

Assemble the Rakak Casserole:

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. Grease the bottom of a large baking dish with clarified butter (smen).
3. Dip each piece of rakak bread in the warm broth, or drizzle the broth over the bread, then place it in the baking dish.
4. Brush melted clarified butter between every layer of bread.
5. Once half of the bread is layered, spread the cooked minced meat evenly on top of the bread layers.
6. Continue layering the remaining rakak bread over the meat, brushing with butter between each layer.
7. Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 30 minutes, or until the bread turns golden and crispy.
8. Remove from the oven, slice, and serve.

Enjoy this delicious and hearty casserole, perfect for family meals or special gatherings!