Zviti is a cherished traditional casserole within the Sephardic Jewish community, especially enjoyed during Passover. This hearty dish is made with ground beef or lamb, matzo, and a blend of flavorful spices, creating a satisfying and nourishing meal. Often garnished with fresh herbs, Zviti is not only a symbol of cultural heritage but also a beloved recipe that has been passed down through generations. Its unique combination of ingredients makes it a staple during the Passover holiday, celebrating the customs and flavors of Jewish culinary traditions.
Zviti has roots in Sephardic Jewish cuisine, originating from the Jewish communities of North Africa and the Mediterranean, particularly Algeria. The dish is traditionally prepared during Passover, a time when leavened bread is forbidden. Matzo serves as a substitute for bread, reflecting the importance of maintaining dietary laws while enjoying flavorful meals. Over the years, families have adapted the recipe, incorporating regional spices and ingredients, making Zviti a versatile dish that can be enjoyed year-round, celebrating both cultural identity and culinary creativity.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound of ground beef or lamb
- 6 matzo sheets
- 2 onions, chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon of tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon of cumin
- 1 teaspoon of paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon of turmeric
- 4 eggs
- 2 cups of chicken or beef broth
- 1/4 cup of olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Method:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Break the matzo sheets into small pieces and place them in a bowl. Pour enough warm water over the matzo to cover it and let it soak for 5-7 minutes until softened.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onions and garlic, sautéing until fragrant.
4. Add the ground beef or lamb and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Stir in the tomato paste and spices, cooking for another minute or two until fragrant.
6. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs and mix them into the skillet.
7. Drain the soaked matzo and add it to the skillet, mixing well.
8. Pour the chicken or beef broth over the mixture, stirring to combine.
9. Transfer to a baking dish and cover with foil.
10. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until set and the top is golden brown.
11. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs.
Nutrition Value:
1. 1 pound of ground beef or lamb
- Calories: Approximately 840-1100
- Carbohydrates: Negligible amount
- Protein: Approximately 70-80 grams
- Fat: Approximately 60-90 grams
- Sodium: Varies by preparation method
- Cholesterol: Approximately 200-250 mg
- Vitamins: B vitamins (B12, B6), vitamin A
- Minerals: Iron, zinc, selenium
- Nutritional benefit: Excellent source of protein and essential nutrients like iron and zinc, which are important for muscle health and immune function.
2. 6 matzo sheets
- Calories: Approximately 420-480
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 84-96 grams
- Protein: Approximately 12-18 grams
- Fat: Approximately 2-4 grams
- Sodium: Approximately 0-10 mg
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
- Vitamins: Small amounts of B vitamins
- Minerals: Iron, calcium
- Nutritional benefit: Provides carbohydrates for energy and is low in fat, making it a suitable base for the dish during Passover.
3. 2 onions, chopped
- Calories: Approximately 64
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 15 grams
- Protein: Approximately 1.4 grams
- Fat: Approximately 0.2 grams
- Sodium: Approximately 6 mg
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
- Vitamins: Vitamin C, vitamin B6
- Minerals: Manganese, potassium
- Nutritional benefit: Rich in antioxidants and vitamins, which may support immune health and reduce inflammation.
4. 4 garlic cloves, minced
- Calories: Approximately 16
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 3.6 grams
- Protein: Approximately 0.8 grams
- Fat: 0 grams
- Sodium: Approximately 1 mg
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
- Vitamins: Vitamin C, vitamin B6
- Minerals: Manganese, calcium
- Nutritional benefit: Contains allicin, known for its various health benefits, including reducing blood pressure and improving cholesterol levels.
5. 1 tablespoon of tomato paste
- Calories: Approximately 13
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 2.6 grams
- Protein: Approximately 0.6 grams
- Fat: Approximately 0.1 grams
- Sodium: Approximately 5 mg
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
- Vitamins: Vitamin C, vitamin K
- Minerals: Potassium
- Nutritional benefit: High in lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that may reduce the risk of certain diseases.
6. 1 teaspoon of cumin
- Calories: Approximately 8
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 0.9 grams
- Protein: Approximately 0.4 grams
- Fat: Approximately 0.5 grams
- Sodium: Approximately 2 mg
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
- Vitamins: Vitamin E
- Minerals: Iron, manganese
- Nutritional benefit: Contains antioxidants and may aid digestion and improve blood sugar control.
7. 1 teaspoon of paprika
- Calories: Approximately 6
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 1.3 grams
- Protein: Approximately 0.3 grams
- Fat: Approximately 0.3 grams
- Sodium: Approximately 1 mg
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
- Vitamins: Vitamin A, vitamin E
- Minerals: Iron
- Nutritional benefit: Rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, which may promote heart health and reduce inflammation.
8. 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon
- Calories: Approximately 3
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 1 gram
- Protein: Approximately 0.1 grams
- Fat: Approximately 0.1 grams
- Sodium: Approximately 0 mg
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
- Vitamins: Vitamin K
- Minerals: Calcium, manganese
- Nutritional benefit: May have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties and could improve insulin sensitivity.
9. 1/2 teaspoon of turmeric
- Calories: Approximately 3
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 0.6 grams
- Protein: Approximately 0.1 grams
- Fat: Approximately 0.1 grams
- Sodium: Approximately 0 mg
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
- Vitamins: Vitamin C
- Minerals: Iron, manganese
- Nutritional benefit: Contains curcumin, which has powerful anti-inflammatory effects and is a strong antioxidant.
10. 4 eggs
- Calories: Approximately 280-320
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 2-4 grams
- Protein: Approximately 24-28 grams
- Fat: Approximately 20-24 grams
- Sodium: Approximately 240 mg
- Cholesterol: Approximately 720-800 mg
- Vitamins: Vitamins A, D, B12, riboflavin
- Minerals: Selenium, phosphorus
- Nutritional benefit: Excellent source of protein and various nutrients, including choline, which is important for brain health.
11. 2 cups of chicken or beef broth
- Calories: Approximately 20-40
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 1-2 grams
- Protein: Approximately 2-4 grams
- Fat: Approximately 0-2 grams
- Sodium: Approximately 800-1000 mg (varies by brand)
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
- Vitamins: Varies by preparation
- Minerals: Varies by preparation
- Nutritional benefit: Provides hydration and may contain beneficial nutrients like collagen, which supports joint health.
12. 1/4 cup of olive oil
- Calories: Approximately 480
- Carbohydrates: Negligible amount
- Protein: Negligible amount
- Fat: Approximately 54 grams
- Sodium: Approximately 0 mg
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
- Vitamins: Vitamin E
- Minerals: Vitamin K
- Nutritional benefit: Rich in healthy monounsaturated fats and antioxidants, which may reduce the risk of heart disease.
13. Salt and pepper to taste
- Calories: Negligible
- Carbohydrates: Negligible
- Protein: Negligible
- Fat: Negligible
- Sodium: Varies by amount used
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
- Vitamins: None
- Minerals: None
- Nutritional benefit: Used primarily for flavoring; excessive sodium intake should be monitored.
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