Dive into the world of Kapana, a popular street food known for its mouthwatering grilled meat, vibrant spices, and savory sauces. This recipe will guide you through creating the perfect Kapana at home, with juicy meat and a blend of spices that bring out rich, aromatic flavors. Perfect for any occasion, Kapana promises a satisfying culinary experience with every bite.

Ingredients:

- 500g beef or lamb, cut into bite-sized cubes

- 2 tbsp olive oil

- 1 tbsp paprika

- 1 tbsp ground cumin

- 1 tsp ground coriander

- 1 tsp garlic powder

- 1 tsp onion powder

- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)

- Salt and black pepper to taste

- 1 lemon, juiced

- Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

- 4-6 pita breads or flatbreads (for serving)

For the Sauce:

- 1 cup plain yogurt

- 2 tbsp tahini

- 1 tbsp lemon juice

- 1 garlic clove, minced

- Salt to taste

Instructions:

Marinate the Meat:

  - In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, paprika, cumin, coriander, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper.

  - Add the meat cubes and toss well to coat. Squeeze the lemon juice over the meat and mix again.

  - Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight for the best results.

Prepare the Sauce:

  - In a small bowl, whisk together the yogurt, tahini, lemon juice, and minced garlic. Season with salt to taste. Set aside.

Grill the Meat:

  - Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.

  - Thread the marinated meat onto skewers (if using) and grill for about 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the meat is cooked through and has a nice char.

Serve:

  - Remove the meat from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes.

  - Serve the grilled meat with pita breads or flatbreads, garnished with chopped parsley or cilantro.

  - Drizzle the prepared sauce over the meat or serve it on the side for dipping.

Enjoy your homemade Kapana, a delicious street food experience right in your own kitchen!

Nutritional Values

Beef or Lamb (500g, cut into bite-sized cubes)

  - Approximately 250 calories

  - 20 grams of protein

  - 20 grams of fat

  - 0 grams of carbohydrates

Benefits: High in protein, essential for muscle growth and repair. Provides important nutrients like iron, zinc, and B vitamins (especially B12), supporting energy production and red blood cell formation.

Olive Oil (2 tablespoons)

  - 240 calories

  - 27 grams of fat (4 grams of saturated fat)

  - 0 grams of cholesterol

Benefits: Contains monounsaturated fats, which can help reduce bad cholesterol levels. Rich in antioxidants and has anti-inflammatory properties.

Paprika (1 tablespoon)

  - About 20 calories

  - 1 gram of fat

  - 4 grams of carbohydrates

  - 1 gram of protein

Benefits: Rich in antioxidants, such as vitamin A and carotenoids. Adds color and flavor to dishes.

Ground Cumin (1 tablespoon)

  - About 8 calories

  - 0.4 grams of fat

  - 1 gram of carbohydrates

  - 0.4 grams of protein

Benefits: May aid digestion and improve gut health. Contains iron and antioxidants.

Ground Coriander (1 teaspoon)

  - About 5 calories

  - 0.3 grams of fat

  - 1 gram of carbohydrates

  - 0.2 grams of protein

Benefits: Contains antioxidants and has potential anti-inflammatory properties. May help with digestive issues.

Garlic Powder (1 teaspoon)

  - About 10 calories

  - 0 grams of fat

  - 2 grams of carbohydrates

  - 0.5 grams of protein

Benefits: Provides the benefits of garlic in a more concentrated form. Known for potential cardiovascular benefits and antioxidant properties.

Onion Powder (1 teaspoon)

  - About 8 calories

  - 0 grams of fat

  - 2 grams of carbohydrates

  - 0.3 grams of protein

Benefits: Offers the benefits of onions in a convenient form. Contains antioxidants and may support heart health.

Cayenne Pepper (1/2 teaspoon, optional)

  - About 5 calories

  - 0.2 grams of fat

  - 1 gram of carbohydrates

  - 0.2 grams of protein

Benefits: Contains capsaicin, which may boost metabolism and reduce appetite. Adds heat and flavor to dishes.

Salt (to taste)

  - 0 calories

  - High in sodium

Benefits: Enhances flavor and helps with electrolyte balance. Should be used in moderation to avoid excessive sodium intake.

Black Pepper (to taste)

  - About 6 calories per teaspoon

  - 0.2 grams of protein

  - 0.1 grams of fat

  - 1.5 grams of carbohydrates

Benefits: Contains piperine, which may enhance nutrient absorption and provide antioxidant benefits.

Lemon (1, juiced)

  - About 12 calories

  - 0.1 grams of fat

  - 4 grams of carbohydrates

  - 0.1 grams of protein

Benefits: High in vitamin C, which supports the immune system and skin health. Adds brightness and tangy flavor to dishes.

Fresh Parsley or Cilantro (for garnish)

  - About 1 calorie

  - 0.1 grams of fat

  - 0.2 grams of carbohydrates

  - 0.1 grams of protein

Benefits: Rich in vitamins A, C, and K. Contains antioxidants and supports digestion. Adds freshness and color to dishes.

Pita Breads or Flatbreads (4-6)

  - About 150 calories

  - 1 gram of fat

  - 30 grams of carbohydrates

  - 5 grams of protein

Benefits: Provides carbohydrates for energy. A good source of fiber if whole grain. Complements the protein and adds texture to the meal.

Plain Yogurt (1 cup)

  - About 150 calories

  - 8 grams of fat

  - 11 grams of carbohydrates

  - 8 grams of protein

Benefits: Contains probiotics that support digestive health. Rich in calcium and protein, which support bone health.

Tahini (2 tablespoons)

  - About 180 calories

  - 16 grams of fat

  - 6 grams of carbohydrates

  - 5 grams of protein

Benefits: Rich in healthy fats, calcium, and iron. Provides protein and adds a creamy texture to sauces.

lemon juiced

  - About 8 calories

  - 0 grams of fat

  - 2 grams of carbohydrates

  - 0.1 grams of protein

Benefits: Adds flavor and vitamin C to the sauce. Supports immune health and can aid digestion.

Garlic Clove (1, minced)

  - About 4 calories

  - 0 grams of fat

  - 1 gram of carbohydrates

  - 0.2 grams of protein

Benefits: Provides the benefits of garlic, including potential cardiovascular and antimicrobial properties.

Salt (to taste)

  - 0 calories

  - High in sodium

Benefits: Enhances flavor and supports electrolyte balance. Should be used in moderation.