Discover the flavors of a traditional Aiga, a family-style meal brimming with a delightful variety of meats, vegetables, and starches. Perfect for gatherings, this recipe combines hearty ingredients to create a satisfying and nourishing dish. Explore how to prepare each component, from succulent meats to fresh vegetables and comforting starches, all in one easy-to-follow recipe. Ideal for family dinners and special occasions.

Ingredients:

For the Meat:

 - 1 kg beef or lamb, cut into chunks

 - 2 tablespoons olive oil

 - 1 large onion, chopped

 - 3 cloves garlic, minced

 - 2 teaspoons ground cumin

 - 2 teaspoons paprika

 - 1 teaspoon turmeric

 - Salt and pepper to taste

 - 2 cups beef or vegetable broth

For the Vegetables:

 - 2 large carrots, sliced

 - 2 bell peppers (red and green), chopped

 - 1 zucchini, sliced

 - 1 cup green beans, trimmed

For the Starches:

 - 2 cups rice, rinsed

 - 4 cups water or broth

 - 2 tablespoons butter or olive oil

 - Salt to taste

Instructions:

Prepare the Meat:

  - Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onions and garlic, cooking until softened.

  - Add the beef or lamb chunks and brown on all sides.

  - Stir in cumin, paprika, turmeric, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1-2 minutes.

  - Pour in the broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 1 hour or until meat is tender.

Cook the Vegetables:

  - In a separate pan, heat a bit of olive oil over medium heat.

  - Add carrots and cook for 5 minutes. Then, add bell peppers and zucchini, cooking until vegetables are tender.

  - Stir in green beans and cook for an additional 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.

Prepare the Rice:

  - In a large pot, bring water or broth to a boil. Stir in the rice and salt.

  - Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until rice is cooked and water is absorbed.

  - Fluff rice with a fork and stir in butter or olive oil.

Assemble the Aiga:

  - Serve the meat alongside the cooked vegetables and rice. Enjoy your hearty family-style meal!

Nutritional Values

1 kg beef or lamb

  - Calories: 2500 kcal (varies by cut and fat content)

  - Protein: 200g

  - Fat: 200g

  - Carbohydrates: 0g

Benefits: Provides high-quality protein essential for muscle repair and growth. Rich in iron, zinc, and B vitamins, supporting overall health and energy levels.

2 tablespoons olive oil

  - Calories: 240 kcal

  - Fat: 28g

Benefits: Provides healthy monounsaturated fats good for heart health. Contains antioxidants and vitamin E.

1 large onion, chopped

  - Calories: 45 kcal

  - Protein: 1g

  - Fat: 0.1g

  - Carbohydrates: 11g

Benefits: Contains antioxidants and vitamins C and B6. Supports immune health and digestion.

3 cloves garlic, minced

  - Calories: 12 kcal

  - Protein: 0.6g

  - Fat: 0.1g

  - Carbohydrates: 3g

Benefits: Contains allicin, which has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. Boosts immune function.

2 teaspoons ground cumin

  - Calories: 8 kcal

  - Protein: 0.4g

  - Fat: 0.5g

  - Carbohydrates: 1g

Benefits: Contains antioxidants and supports digestion.

2 teaspoons paprika

  - Calories: 12 kcal

  - Protein: 0.6g

  - Fat: 0.6g

  - Carbohydrates: 2g

Benefits: Rich in antioxidants and vitamin A. Adds flavor and color.

1 teaspoon turmeric

  - Calories: 8 kcal

  - Protein: 0.2g

  - Fat: 0.2g

  - Carbohydrates: 2g

Benefits: Contains curcumin, which has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Supports joint health and digestion.

Salt and pepper (to taste)

  - Calories: 0 kcal

Benefits: Salt enhances flavor and maintains electrolyte balance. Black pepper aids digestion and enhances nutrient absorption.

2 cups beef or vegetable broth

  - Calories: 30 kcal (beef) / 20 kcal (vegetable)

  - Protein: 2g (beef) / 1g (vegetable)

  - Fat: 1g (beef) / 0g (vegetable)

  - Carbohydrates: 2g (beef) / 3g (vegetable)

Benefits: Adds flavor and can provide some minerals and nutrients.

2 large carrots, sliced

  - Calories: 80 kcal

  - Protein: 2g

  - Fat: 0.5g

  - Carbohydrates: 19g

Benefits: High in beta-carotene (vitamin A), fiber, and antioxidants. Supports vision and immune health.

2 bell peppers (red and green), chopped

  - Calories: 60 kcal

  - Protein: 2g

  - Fat: 0.5g

  - Carbohydrates: 15g

Benefits: Rich in vitamins A and C, antioxidants. Supports immune health and skin health.

1 zucchini, sliced

  - Calories: 33 kcal

  - Protein: 2g

  - Fat: 0.5g

  - Carbohydrates: 7g

Benefits: Low in calories, high in vitamin C and antioxidants. Supports hydration and digestion.

1 cup green beans, trimmed

  - Calories: 30 kcal

  - Protein: 2g

  - Fat: 0g

  - Carbohydrates: 7g

Benefits: High in fiber, vitamins A, C, and K. Supports digestion and overall health.

2 cups rice, rinsed

  - Calories: 1400 kcal

  - Protein: 14g

  - Fat: 0.5g

  - Carbohydrates: 312g

Benefits: Provides a high amount of carbohydrates for energy. Depending on the type, it may also provide some vitamins and minerals.

4 cups water or broth

  - Calories: 0 kcal

Benefits: Essential for hydration and helps in the cooking process. Broth adds flavor and some nutrients.

2 tablespoons butter or olive oil

  - Calories: 240 kcal

  - Fat: 28g

Benefits: Provides healthy fats (in the case of olive oil) or saturated fats (in the case of butter). Adds flavor and texture.

Salt (to taste)

  - Calories: 0 kcal

Benefits: Enhances flavor and maintains electrolyte balance.

These values are approximate and can vary based on specific preparation methods and ingredient types.