Introduction
This recipe takes a delightful twist on traditional flavors, combining aromatic spices with chicken mince to create a delicious spiced spread that perfectly complements the crispy Lebanese bread. Whether enjoyed as a meal or a snack, it’s easy to customize with your favorite toppings.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
Lebanese bread: 1 x ~30cm/12″
Spiced Chicken Mince Spread:
– Chicken mince (ground chicken): 125g / 4 oz
– Tomato paste: 2 tsp
– Baharat spice mix (Lebanese 7 spice): 1 tsp
– Sweet paprika (or smoked): 1/2 tsp
– Garlic clove (crushed): 1
– Cooking salt / kosher salt: 1/4 tsp
– Fresh parsley or coriander/cilantro (optional): 1 tbsp, finely chopped
– Extra virgin olive oil: 1 1/2 tbsp (for cooking)
Toppings – Essential:
– Extra virgin olive oil
– Crumbled Danish feta or goat cheese: 2 tbsp
Toppings – Optional:
– Lemon juice (light drizzle)
– Dried chili flakes / red pepper flakes
– Toasted pine nuts: ~1 tbsp, roughly chopped
– Finely chopped parsley or coriander/cilantro: 1 tsp
Prep Time
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 3 minutes
Total Time: 8 minutes
Yield: Serves 1 (can easily be scaled up)
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Lebanese Bread
Use a large 30cm/12″ non-stick pan. If necessary, trim one side of the Lebanese bread with scissors to make it fit in your pan. Only cut one side to prevent the bread from separating while cooking.
Mix the Chicken Spread
In a bowl, combine the chicken mince, tomato paste, Baharat spice mix, paprika, crushed garlic, cooking salt, and finely chopped parsley or coriander if using. Mix until well combined.
Spread the Chicken Mixture
Take the Lebanese bread and evenly spread the chicken mixture across one side, similar to spreading peanut butter. Ensure it adheres well to the bread, creating a thin, even layer.
Cook the Meat Side
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in the pan over high heat. Place the bread in the pan with the meat side facing down. Cook for 90 seconds, pressing down lightly to promote browning and ensure the meat sticks to the bread.
Crisp the Bread Side
Using tongs, carefully turn the bread over so the meat side is facing down. Cook the bread side for an additional 90 seconds, or until it turns golden and crispy. If it browns too quickly, reduce the heat.
Add Toppings
Slide the bread onto a cutting board. Top it with crumbled feta cheese and drizzle with extra virgin olive oil. Add any optional toppings of your choice, such as lemon juice, dried chili flakes, toasted pine nuts, or additional chopped herbs.
Serve and Enjoy
Cut the bread into 8 slices like a pizza and serve immediately. Enjoy your creation!
Notes
Note 1: Lebanese Bread
Lebanese bread is a large, thin, double-layered flatbread. Available in grocery stores in Australia, you can substitute with any thin flatbreads or tortillas. Adjust the amount of filling based on the bread size.
Note 2: Meat Options
Chicken mince is used here for quick preparation, but lamb is more traditional for Lebanese pizza. Feel free to use any type of ground meat.
Note 3: Baharat Spice Mix
Baharat, also known as Lebanese 7 Spice, is a unique blend focusing on all-spice and cinnamon. You can find it at larger grocery stores or make a homemade version using specified spices.
Note 4: Topping Variations
Various toppings can enhance the flavor. Refer to the list for suggestions; feel free to get creative!
Note 5: Non-Stick Pan
Using a non-stick pan is essential to prevent the meat from sticking. If you’re using a regular pan, ensure the meat does not stick before flipping.
Cook techniques
Preparing the Bread
Trim the Lebanese bread to fit your pan by cutting one side. This allows for even cooking while keeping the bread intact.
Mixing the Chicken Spread
Combine the chicken mince, tomato paste, Baharat spice mix, paprika, garlic, salt, and optional herbs in a bowl, mixing well to create a uniform spread.
Applying the Spread
Spread the chicken mixture evenly across one side of the bread, pressing it down firmly to ensure it sticks.
Cooking the Meat Side
Heat oil in a non-stick pan over high heat. Place the bread meat side down and cook for 90 seconds while lightly pressing down to promote browning.
Crisping the Bread Side
Carefully turn the bread using tongs to cook the other side for an additional 90 seconds until golden and crispy. Lower the heat if it cooks too quickly.
Adding Toppings
Once cooked, transfer the bread to a cutting board, sprinkle with feta, drizzle with extra virgin olive oil, and add any additional toppings as desired.
FAQ
Can I substitute Lebanese bread with other types of bread?
Yes, you can use any thin flatbreads like tortillas or other variants, but be mindful of adjusting the amount of spread if using smaller bread.
What can I use instead of chicken mince?
You can substitute chicken with lamb or any other ground meat of your choice, depending on your preference.
Where can I find Baharat spice mix?
Baharat is often available at larger grocery stores or can be made at home using specific spices.
What additional toppings can I use?
You can personalize your dish with a variety of toppings such as lemon juice, dried chili flakes, toasted nuts, or fresh herbs.
Is a non-stick pan necessary for this recipe?
Yes, using a non-stick pan ensures that the meat doesn’t stick when you flip the bread. If unavailable, make sure the meat is not stuck before flipping.
Conclusion
This spiced chicken mince spread on Lebanese bread is a quick, vibrant dish that captures the essence of Middle Eastern flavors. The combination of juicy chicken and aromatic spices, topped with creamy feta and a drizzle of olive oil, creates a mouthwatering experience that is easy to prepare. Perfect for a snack, light meal, or an appetizer, it can be customized to suit your taste.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Swap Proteins
Try using lamb, beef, or even plant-based meat alternatives for a different flavor profile.
Herb Variations
Add fresh mint or dill instead of or alongside parsley for a refreshing twist.
Cheese Alternatives
Experiment with ricotta, labneh, or crumbled blue cheese for a unique taste.
Spice It Up
Incorporate harissa paste or chili paste into the chicken spread for added heat.
Nutty Crunch
Use roasted walnuts or pecans in place of pine nuts for a richer texture.
Fresh Veggies
Top with sliced radishes, cucumbers, or roasted bell peppers for crunch and freshness.
Sweet Touch
Drizzle with honey or add pomegranate seeds for a sweet contrast to the savory spices.
