Iraqi Pacha (Baja) – A Traditional Recipe

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Iraqi Pacha (Baja) – A Traditional Recipe

Iraqi Pacha (Baja) is a hearty, traditional dish deeply rooted in Iraqi cuisine. Often reserved for special occasions due to its time-intensive preparation, this dish is rich in flavor and nutrients, making it a centerpiece of celebratory meals.

Ingredients for Four People:

Iraqi Pacha (Baja)

 

For the Meat:

  • 6 pieces of sheep trotters (kawari, also called "pacha").
  • 4 pieces of sheep head (including tongue).
  • 6 onions, peeled and halved.

For the Broth:

  • 15 cardamom pods.
  • Cloves (as desired).
  • 1 tablespoon of black pepper.
  • 5 cinnamon sticks.
  • 5 bay leaves.
  • 1 teaspoon of meat spice mix.
  • 1 teaspoon of curry powder.

For Serving:

  • Arabic bread (as needed).
  • Lemon wedges.
  • Green onions.

Preparation Steps:

1. Preparing the Meat:

  1. Clean the sheep head thoroughly, ensuring to remove any unwanted parts. Remove the tongue and clean it separately, slicing it in half lengthwise.
  2. Wash the trotters (kawari) thoroughly to ensure all dirt and impurities are removed.

2. First Boil (To Remove Odor):

  1. In a large pot, place the sheep head, tongue, and trotters.
  2. Add water to cover and include 2 cinnamon sticks and black pepper to help neutralize any odors.
  3. Bring to a boil and let it simmer for a while.
  4. Discard the water and wash the meat again to ensure cleanliness.

3. Cooking the Broth:

  1. In a clean pot, place the boiled meat and trotters. Add fresh water to cover.
  2. Add the onions, cardamom pods, cloves, cinnamon sticks, bay leaves, meat spice mix, and curry powder.
  3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pot tightly, and let it simmer until the meat becomes tender. This can take several hours, so be patient.

4. Assembling the Dish:

  1. Line the bottom of a large serving plate with Arabic bread.
  2. Pour a generous amount of the meat broth over the bread to soak it.
  3. Arrange the cooked meat, tongue, and trotters on top of the bread.

5. Garnishing and Serving:

  1. Garnish the dish with lemon wedges and green onions for added flavor and freshness.
  2. Serve hot, allowing everyone to enjoy the rich, hearty flavors of this traditional Iraqi dish.

Nutritional Highlights:

  • Rich in Calories: Provides ample energy, making it suitable for special occasions.
  • High in Minerals: Contains zinc, copper, calcium, and iron for overall health.
  • Heart Health: Loaded with nutrients that support cardiovascular wellness.

Enjoy Iraqi Pacha, a dish that captures the essence of Iraqi hospitality and tradition. Its bold flavors and unique preparation make it a true culinary experience. Bon appétit!

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