Lebanese Beef Spinach Stew with Vermicelli Rice

Steps

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1. 1
   Thoroughly wash the spinach multiple times until the water runs clear. Drain in a colander for about 30 minutes, then roughly chop.
   ≈0:54
2. 2
   Cut the beef into small cubes, removing any membranes or excess fat from the edges. You need about 400 grams total.
   ≈2:04
3. 3
   In a medium pot, heat 1 tablespoon butter and 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté for 3 minutes, stirring occasionally until softened.
   ≈3:26
4. 4
   Add the diced beef and stir well, mixing with the onions and oil. After about 3 minutes the onions will begin to turn a light golden color.
   ≈4:04
5. 5
   Season with 1 teaspoon salt, 1 teaspoon seven spices, 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Stir well and cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the beef to release its juices.
   ≈4:24
6. 6
   Pour in 4 cups of hot water, cover the pot, and bring to a boil. Then reduce heat to low and simmer for 1 hour until the beef is tender.
   ≈5:39
7. 7
   Once the beef is tender, gradually add the chopped spinach in batches, stirring as you go to incorporate each batch. Once all spinach is added, increase heat to medium, cover partially, and cook until the spinach is completely wilted and reduced in volume.
   ≈6:17
8. 8
   Once the spinach begins to boil, prepare the garlic-cilantro sauté in a small pan: heat 1 tablespoon butter and 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic (mixed with 1/2 teaspoon salt) and chopped cilantro (about 75 grams). Stir for about 2 minutes until fragrant but the garlic does not brown.
   ≈7:52
9. 9
   Pour the garlic-cilantro mixture into the spinach pot and stir to combine. Continue cooking for about 15 minutes until the spinach is completely tender and well flavored.
   ≈9:27
10. 10
    Turn off the heat. Garnish with roasted pine nuts. Serve the spinach stew alongside the vermicelli rice, and squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top to taste. Optional: grate some nutmeg over the stew for extra flavor.
    ≈10:00