Discover how to make Khlia, a traditional Moroccan preserved meat delicacy. This flavorful recipe features dried, spiced meat cooked in fat, perfect for serving with bread or adding to tagines. Learn the step-by-step process to create this authentic and delicious dish at home.

Ingredients:

- 2 lbs (900 g) beef or lamb, cut into small cubes

- 2 tablespoons salt

- 1 tablespoon ground black pepper

- 1 tablespoon ground paprika

- 1 tablespoon ground cumin

- 1 tablespoon ground coriander

- 4 cloves garlic, minced

- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

- 1 teaspoon ground ginger

- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)

- 1 cup (240 ml) rendered fat (beef or lamb fat)

- 1/4 cup (60 ml) white vinegar

Instructions:

Prepare the Meat:

  - In a large bowl, combine the meat cubes with salt, black pepper, paprika, cumin, coriander, minced garlic, cinnamon, ginger, and cayenne pepper (if using). Mix well to ensure all pieces are coated with the spices.

Marinate:

  - Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 12 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the meat to become well-seasoned.

Cook the Meat:

  - Remove the marinated meat from the refrigerator and transfer it to a large pot. Add the vinegar and enough water to cover the meat. Bring to a boil over medium heat.

  - Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 1-2 hours, or until the meat is tender and the liquid has mostly evaporated.

Dry the Meat:

  - Once the meat is tender and most of the liquid has evaporated, remove the meat from the pot and spread it out on a baking sheet. Allow it to cool and dry completely, either in a well-ventilated area or in an oven set to a low temperature (around 200°F or 95°C) for a few hours.

Preserve the Meat:

  - Once dried, transfer the meat to a clean, dry jar. Melt the rendered fat in a saucepan and pour it over the meat in the jar, ensuring that the meat is completely submerged.

  - Seal the jar tightly and store it in a cool, dark place. Khlia can be kept for several months and is ready to use whenever needed.

Serving Suggestions:

- Serve Khlia with warm, crusty bread.

- Use it as a flavorful addition to tagines and stews for a rich, savory taste.

Enjoy making this traditional Moroccan dish and savor the authentic flavors of Khlia!

Nutritional values

Here’s the nutritional information and benefits for each ingredient:

2 lbs (900 g) beef or lamb, cut into small cubes

 - Calories: Approximately 1,800 - 2,000 kcal (varies based on fat content)

 - Protein: Approximately 150 - 180g

 - Fat: Approximately 120 - 150g

 - Carbohydrates: 0g

Benefits:

 - High in protein, essential for muscle repair and growth.

 - Rich in B vitamins, iron, and zinc, which support various bodily functions.

2 tablespoons salt

 - Calories: 0 kcal

 - Sodium: Approximately 4,600 mg

Benefits:

 - Enhances flavor. Sodium is necessary for fluid balance but should be used in moderation to avoid health issues.

1 tablespoon ground black pepper

 - Calories: Approximately 6 kcal

 - Carbohydrates: 1g

 - Sugars: 0g

 - Protein: 0.3g

 - Fat: 0.3g

Benefits:

 - Adds spice and flavor. Contains piperine, which may have antioxidant properties.

1 tablespoon ground paprika

 - Calories: Approximately 6 kcal

 - Carbohydrates: 1g

 - Sugars: 0g

 - Protein: 0.3g

 - Fat: 0.3g

Benefits:

 - Adds color and flavor. Contains antioxidants that may help reduce inflammation.

1 tablespoon ground cumin

 - Calories: Approximately 16 kcal

 - Carbohydrates: 2g

 - Sugars: 0g

 - Protein: 0.8g

 - Fat: 0.8g

Benefits:

 - Adds a warm, earthy flavor. Contains antioxidants and may aid in digestion.

1 tablespoon ground coriander

 - Calories: Approximately 12 kcal

 - Carbohydrates: 2g

 - Sugars: 0g

 - Protein: 0.5g

 - Fat: 0.5g

Benefits:

 - Adds a citrusy flavor. Contains antioxidants and may help with digestive issues.

4 cloves garlic, minced

 - Calories: Approximately 18 kcal

 - Carbohydrates: 4g

 - Sugars: 0g

 - Protein: 0.8g

 - Fat: 0g

Benefits:

 - Contains antioxidants and compounds that support immune health and may have anti-inflammatory effects.

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

 - Calories: Approximately 6 kcal

 - Carbohydrates: 2g

 - Sugars: 0g

 - Protein: 0.1g

 - Fat: 0.03g

Benefits:

 - Adds a sweet, warm flavor. Contains antioxidants and may help regulate blood sugar levels.

1 teaspoon ground ginger

 - Calories: Approximately 6 kcal

 - Carbohydrates: 1.3g

 - Sugars: 0g

 - Protein: 0.1g

 - Fat: 0.1g

Benefits:

 - Adds a spicy, zesty flavor. Contains gingerol, which has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)

 - Calories: Approximately 6 kcal

 - Carbohydrates: 1g

 - Sugars: 0g

 - Protein: 0.2g

 - Fat: 0.3g

Benefits:

 - Adds heat and flavor. Contains capsaicin, which may boost metabolism and have pain-relieving properties.

1 cup (240 ml) rendered fat (beef or lamb fat)

 - Calories: Approximately 2,100 kcal

 - Fat: 240g

 - Carbohydrates: 0g

 - Protein: 0g

Benefits:

 - Provides rich flavor and can be used for cooking. High in saturated fat, which should be consumed in moderation.

1/4 cup (60 ml) white vinegar

 - Calories: Approximately 0 kcal

 - Carbohydrates: 0g

 - Sugars: 0g

 - Protein: 0g

 - Fat: 0g

Benefits:

 - Adds acidity to balance flavors. May aid in digestion and has some antimicrobial properties.