Introduction
Baked meat with potatoes is one of the most popular traditional dishes in the Levant, Palestine, and Jordan. It is a beloved family meal that perfectly balances simplicity with rich, comforting flavor.
Slow-cooked meat layered with sliced potatoes, onions, and tomatoes, seasoned with classic Eastern spices, creates a hearty dish that feels warm, familiar, and satisfying.
This recipe is ideal for a filling lunch, family gatherings, or weekend meals. In this article, we present a detailed preparation method along with essential tips for guaranteed success.
Why Is Baked Meat with Potatoes an Ideal Dish?
- Simple and straightforward
All ingredients are placed in one baking tray and cooked in the oven with minimal effort or supervision. - Deep and rich flavor
Meat juices blend with vegetables to create a naturally flavorful sauce. - Filling and family-friendly
Potatoes, onions, and tomatoes make this dish nourishing and satisfying. - Easily customizable
You can add vegetables such as carrots or zucchini or adjust the spices to your taste.
Essential Ingredients
Meat ingredients:
- 1 kg medium-cut meat (lamb or beef)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon meat spice mix
- A pinch of cinnamon (optional)
- A pinch of cumin
- 2 tablespoons oil or ghee
Vegetable ingredients:
- 3 potatoes, sliced
- 2 onions, sliced
- 3 tomatoes, sliced
- Green or red bell pepper
- 5 garlic cloves
- ½ cup water or broth
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste (optional)
Step-by-Step Preparation
- Preparing the meat
Wash the meat thoroughly and pat dry.
Season with salt, pepper, spices, cumin, and cinnamon.
Add a little oil to help distribute the seasoning evenly. - Searing the meat (optional but recommended)
Heat a small amount of oil in a pan.
Sear the meat on high heat until golden on both sides.
This step enhances flavor but can be skipped if desired. - Assembling the baking tray
Arrange onion slices at the bottom of the tray.
Add potato slices, then tomato slices.
Distribute garlic cloves between the layers for extra flavor.
Place the meat on top of the vegetables. - Adding liquid
Dissolve tomato paste in half a cup of water or broth.
Pour the mixture evenly over the tray.
Use minimal liquid, as meat and vegetables release natural juices during baking. - Oven cooking
Cover the tray tightly with aluminum foil.
Bake at 200°C (390°F) for 1½ hours.
Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes until lightly browned. - Serving
Serve hot with white rice, vermicelli rice, or Arabic bread.
Garnish with chopped parsley for a fresh finish.
Secrets for Perfect Baked Meat with Potatoes
✔ Choose the right meat cut
Best cuts for slow baking include:
- Shoulder
- Shank
- Neck
- Ribs
✔ Searing the meat enhances flavor
It adds depth and prevents the meat from breaking apart.
✔ Avoid excess liquid
Vegetables and meat release enough moisture during cooking.
✔ Low heat and long cooking time
Ensures tender meat and soft, flavorful potatoes.
✔ Garlic between layers
Releases aroma and enriches the dish naturally.
Nutritional Value
- High in protein
Meat provides high-quality protein. - Rich in essential minerals
Including iron, zinc, and phosphorus. - Energy-rich
Potatoes supply balanced carbohydrates. - Moderate fat content
Especially when using olive oil instead of ghee.
Creative Serving Ideas
- Add lemon slices on top
Provides freshness and balances richness. - Add carrots or zucchini
Transforms it into a richer vegetable-based tray. - Serve with garlic sauce or tahini
Adds a bold side flavor. - Spicy version
Add chili peppers or smoked paprika for heat.
Conclusion
Baked meat with potatoes is one of the most comforting home-style dishes that combines authentic Eastern flavor with ease of preparation and high nutritional value.
By following the steps and golden tips above, you can prepare a perfectly cooked dish with restaurant-quality taste.
This recipe truly deserves a permanent place in the meat dishes section of your blog.
