Indulge in the rich flavors of Somali cuisine with Hilib Geel, a traditional dish celebrated for its succulent grilled goat meat infused with aromatic spices. This beloved Somali delicacy, often prepared for special occasions and gatherings, showcases the country's culinary heritage and the artistry of Somali cooks. Tender pieces of marinated goat meat are grilled to perfection, creating a mouthwatering symphony of flavors and textures. Served alongside fragrant rice, flatbread, or a medley of vegetables, Hilib Geel promises an unforgettable dining experience, inviting you to savor each savory bite and immerse yourself in the vibrant culinary tapestry of Somalia.

Ingredients:

• 1 kg camel meat, cut into chunks (preferably from the leg or shoulder)
• 2 onions, finely chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tomatoes, diced
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 teaspoons ground coriander
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1 teaspoon ground cardamom
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• Salt, to taste
• Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Lemon wedges (for serving)

Instructions:

Marinate the Camel Meat:

1- In a large bowl, combine the camel meat chunks with chopped onions, minced garlic, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, vegetable oil, ground coriander, ground cumin, ground turmeric, ground cardamom, ground cinnamon, ground black pepper, and salt.

2- Mix well until the meat is evenly coated with the marinade. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld.

Grilling Method:

1- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.

2- Thread the marinated camel meat onto skewers, leaving a little space between each piece.

3- Grill the camel meat skewers for about 8-10 minutes per side, or until they are cooked to your desired level of doneness and have a nice charred exterior.

Stewing Method:

1- Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.

2- Add the marinated camel meat along with any remaining marinade to the pot.

3- Pour enough water to cover the meat completely.

4- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer, covered, for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the camel meat is tender and cooked through. Stir occasionally and add more water if needed to prevent it from drying out.

Serving:

1- Once the camel meat is cooked, remove it from the grill or pot.

2- Serve the grilled or stewed camel meat hot, garnished with freshly chopped cilantro or parsley.

3- Accompany with lemon wedges on the side for squeezing over the meat, if desired.

4- Djibouti Hilib Geel pairs well with flatbread, rice, couscous, or salad.

Enjoy the rich flavors of Djibouti with this traditional Hilib Geel recipe, showcasing the unique taste of camel meat infused with aromatic spices!

Nutritional Values:

Here's an approximate nutritional breakdown for the ingredients used in the Djibouti Hilib Geel recipe:

Camel Meat (per 100g):

• Calories: 143 kcal
• Protein: 22.5g
• Fat: 5.7g
• Saturated Fat: 2.3g
• Carbohydrates: 0g
• Fiber: 0g
• Cholesterol: 81mg
• Sodium: 61mg

benefits:

• Rich source of high-quality protein, essential for muscle growth and repair.
• Contains iron, which is important for oxygen transport in the body and prevention of anemia.
• Lower in fat compared to other meats, making it a healthier protein option.
• Provides various vitamins and minerals such as zinc, vitamin B12, and selenium.

Onions (per 100g):

• Calories: 40 kcal
• Protein: 1.1g
• Fat: 0.1g
• Carbohydrates: 9.3g
• Fiber: 1.7g
• Sugars: 4.7g
• Sodium: 4mg

benefits:

• Good source of antioxidants, particularly flavonoids and quercetin, which help reduce inflammation and promote heart health.
• Contains prebiotic fibers that support gut health and digestion.
• May have anticancer properties and contribute to immune system support.
• Low in calories and rich in vitamins C and B6, and potassium.

Garlic (per 100g):

• Calories: 149 kcal
• Protein: 6.4g
• Fat: 0.5g
• Carbohydrates: 33.1g
• Fiber: 2.1g
• Sugars: 1g
• Sodium: 17mg

benefits:

• Possesses antimicrobial and antiviral properties, helping to fight infections and boost the immune system.
• Rich in sulfur compounds like allicin, which may lower blood pressure and improve cholesterol levels.
• Contains antioxidants that protect against cell damage and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
• Supports cardiovascular health by improving blood circulation and reducing the risk of blood clot formation.

Tomatoes (per 100g):

• Calories: 18 kcal
• Protein: 0.9g
• Fat: 0.2g
• Carbohydrates: 3.9g
• Fiber: 1.2g
• Sugars: 2.6g
• Sodium: 5mg

benefits:

• Excellent source of vitamin C, which is essential for collagen production and immune function.
• Contains lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that may reduce the risk of certain cancers and protect against heart disease.
• Low in calories and high in water content, making them hydrating and beneficial for weight management.
• Rich in potassium, which helps regulate blood pressure and maintain electrolyte balance.

Tomato Paste (per 100g):

• Calories: 82 kcal
• Protein: 4.3g
• Fat: 0.5g
• Carbohydrates: 16.7g
• Fiber: 2.7g
• Sugars: 10.6g
• Sodium: 26mg

benefits:

• Concentrated source of lycopene and other antioxidants found in tomatoes, offering similar health benefits.
• Provides a convenient way to add tomato flavor to dishes without excess liquid.
• Contains vitamins A and C, which support vision health and immune function.
• May contribute to skin health and protection against UV damage due to its antioxidant content.

Vegetable Oil (per 100g):

• Calories: 884 kcal
• Protein: 0g
• Fat: 100g
• Saturated Fat: 14g
• Monounsaturated Fat: 63g
• Polyunsaturated Fat: 23g
• Cholesterol: 0mg
• Sodium: 0mg

benefits:

• Contains healthy unsaturated fats, such as monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, which help lower bad cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease.
• Source of vitamin E, an antioxidant that protects cells from damage caused by free radicals.
• Provides essential fatty acids, including omega-3 and omega-6, which are important for brain function and overall health.
• Suitable for high-heat cooking methods like grilling or stewing.

Nutritional values may vary slightly depending on factors such as the specific ingredients used and the method of preparation. It's important to note that these values are approximate and intended for general informational purposes.