Description
Lebanese Spinach Stew, also known as ‘Sabanegh bi Zeit’ or ‘Sabanegh w Riz,’ is a comforting and nutritious dish made with spinach, garlic, onions, and optional ground meat, simmered in olive oil and lemon juice. Served over rice, it’s a staple in Lebanese cuisine.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 250g ground beef or lamb (optional)
- 500g fresh spinach or 400g frozen spinach, thawed and drained
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Lebanese seven spice
- 1 cup water or broth (vegetable or chicken)
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- Cooked rice, for serving
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add chopped onions and sauté until translucent.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- If using meat, add ground beef or lamb and cook until browned.
- Add spinach and cook until wilted if using fresh, or heated through if using frozen.
- Season with salt, black pepper, and seven spice.
- Pour in water or broth and bring to a gentle simmer. Cook for 15–20 minutes to allow flavors to blend.
- Stir in lemon juice and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Serve hot over a bed of cooked rice.
Notes
Use vegetable broth and skip the meat for a vegan version.Chickpeas or lentils can be added for extra protein.Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 2 months.Add tomato paste for a richer, tomato-based version.Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro for extra flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
