Discover the rich and savory taste of Somali Hilib Ari, a delectable dish featuring roasted or grilled goat meat. Seasoned with aromatic Somali spices, this recipe brings out the authentic flavors of traditional Somali cuisine. Perfect for family gatherings or special occasions, Hilib Ari is a must-try for goat meat enthusiasts. Follow our step-by-step guide to create this flavorful and satisfying dish that captures the essence of Somali cooking.

Ingredients:

- 2 lbs goat meat (cut into chunks)

- 2 tbsp Somali spice mix (berbere or a homemade blend of coriander, cumin, turmeric, and paprika)

- 1 tbsp garlic paste

- 1 tbsp ginger paste

- 1 tsp ground black pepper

- 1 tsp salt (or to taste)

- 2 tbsp vegetable oil

- 1 lemon (juiced)

- 1 onion (chopped)

- 1 tomato (chopped)

- Fresh cilantro (for garnish)

Instructions:

Marinate the Meat: In a large bowl, combine the goat meat with garlic paste, ginger paste, Somali spice mix, ground black pepper, salt, vegetable oil, and lemon juice. Mix thoroughly to ensure all pieces are evenly coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results.

Prepare for Roasting or Grilling:

  - For Roasting: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the marinated goat meat on a baking tray and spread it out evenly. Roast in the oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the meat is cooked through and has a crispy exterior. Flip halfway through for even cooking.

  - For Grilling: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Grill the goat meat for about 20-25 minutes, turning occasionally, until it is fully cooked and has a nice char on the outside.

Cook the Onion and Tomato: While the meat is roasting or grilling, heat a little oil in a pan over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onion until it becomes translucent. Add the chopped tomato and cook for an additional 5 minutes, or until the tomato is softened.

Serve: Remove the goat meat from the oven or grill and let it rest for a few minutes. Serve hot with the sautéed onion and tomato mixture. Garnish with fresh cilantro.

Enjoy your Somali Hilib Ari with traditional sides like rice, flatbread, or a fresh salad for a complete meal!

Nutritional values

Goat Meat (2 lbs, cut into chunks)

 - Calories: About 122 kcal

 - Carbohydrates: 0 grams

 - Protein: 20 grams

 - Fat: 2.6 grams

Benefits:

 - Goat meat is a lean source of high-quality protein, essential for muscle growth and repair. It is lower in fat and cholesterol compared to beef and lamb, making it a healthier choice. It provides important nutrients such as iron, zinc, and vitamin B12, which support energy levels and overall health.

Somali Spice Mix (2 tbsp, including berbere or a homemade blend of coriander, cumin, turmeric, and paprika)

 - Calories: About 300-400 kcal (varies by specific mix)

 - Carbohydrates: 60-70 grams

 - Protein: 10-15 grams

 - Fat: 5-10 grams

Benefits:

 - Spice blends like berbere offer a range of health benefits due to their diverse components. Coriander aids digestion and provides antioxidants; cumin supports digestion and has antimicrobial properties; turmeric has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects; paprika adds a rich color and mild heat, with antioxidants such as vitamin A.

Garlic Paste (1 tbsp)

 - Calories: About 150 kcal

 - Carbohydrates: 33 grams

 - Protein: 6 grams

 - Fat: 0.5 grams

Benefits:

 - Garlic paste contains allicin, which has been shown to have antibacterial, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory properties. It supports cardiovascular health and adds a robust flavor to dishes.

Ginger Paste (1 tbsp)

 - Calories: About 80 kcal

 - Carbohydrates: 18 grams

 - Protein: 1.8 grams

 - Fat: 0.8 grams

Benefits:

 - Ginger has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It aids digestion, helps reduce nausea, and can relieve muscle pain. It adds a warming flavor to dishes.

Ground Black Pepper (1 tsp)

 - Calories: About 255 kcal

 - Carbohydrates: 64 grams

 - Protein: 10 grams

 - Fat: 3 grams

Benefits:

 - Black pepper contains piperine, which enhances the absorption of other nutrients and has antioxidant properties. It adds a sharp, spicy flavor and supports digestion.

Salt (1 tsp or to taste)

 - Sodium content depends on the amount used.

Benefits:

 - Salt enhances the flavor of dishes. Use in moderation to avoid excessive sodium intake, which can affect blood pressure and overall health.

Vegetable Oil (2 tbsp)

 - Calories: About 884 kcal

 - Carbohydrates: 0 grams

 - Protein: 0 grams

 - Fat: 100 grams (varies by type)

Benefits:

 - Vegetable oil adds flavor and helps in cooking. It provides essential fatty acids, though it should be used in moderation due to its high fat content.

Lemon (1, juiced)

 - Calories: About 29 kcal

 - Carbohydrates: 9 grams

 - Protein: 1 gram

 - Fat: 0 grams

Benefits:

 - Lemon juice is high in vitamin C, which supports the immune system. It adds a tangy flavor and can enhance the overall taste of the dish.

Onion (1, chopped)

 - Calories: About 40 kcal

 - Carbohydrates: 9 grams

 - Protein: 1 gram

 - Fat: 0.1 grams

Benefits:

 - Onions are rich in antioxidants and provide vitamins C and B6. They support heart health and have antimicrobial properties.

Tomato (1, chopped)

 - Calories: About 18 kcal

 - Carbohydrates: 4 grams

 - Protein: 0.9 grams

 - Fat: 0.2 grams

Benefits:

 - Tomatoes are high in antioxidants, particularly lycopene, which supports heart health and may reduce the risk of certain cancers. They provide vitamins A and C.

Fresh Cilantro (For garnish, optional)

 - Calories: About 23 kcal

 - Carbohydrates: 4 grams

 - Protein: 2 grams

 - Fat: 0.5 grams

Benefits:

 - Cilantro provides vitamins A, C, and K, as well as antioxidants. It adds fresh flavor and aids in digestion.

Combining these ingredients will create a flavorful and nutritious dish with a balance of protein, spices, and vegetables. The goat meat provides a hearty base, while the spices and herbs enhance the flavor and offer various health benefits. Optional ingredients like fresh cilantro and lemon wedges can further elevate the dish.