This Lebanese spinach stew recipe offers a rich and flavorful combination of ground beef, spinach, and aromatic spices. It features a blend of 7 Spice seasoning, garlic, cilantro, and a touch of lemon for a unique and savory dish. This healthy and hearty stew is perfect for a comforting meal, combining protein, vegetables, and essential nutrients. The recipe includes easy-to-find ingredients like ground beef, spinach, and chicken broth, and it can be served over traditional Arabic rice or with warm bread. With its bold flavors and simple preparation, this stew is ideal for a family dinner or a weeknight meal. Make this stew your go-to comfort food for a nourishing, flavorful dish!

Ingredients

2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
⅓ cup pine nuts
1 lb lean ground beef
2 teaspoons 7 Spice seasoning
2 teaspoons salt, divided
½ teaspoon black pepper, divided
¼ cup chopped cilantro
5 garlic cloves, minced
½ teaspoon crushed red pepper
2 (10-ounce) bags frozen spinach
3 cups chicken broth
Juice of 1 lemon

Instructions

Toast the Pine Nuts: In a heavy-bottomed sauté pan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the pine nuts and toast until golden, then remove and set aside.
Cook the Beef: In the same pan, heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, seasoning with 7 Spice, 1 teaspoon of salt, and ¼ teaspoon of black pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes until browned. Remove the beef and set aside, keeping any remaining oil and juices in the pan.
Prepare the Aromatics: In the same pan, add the chopped cilantro, minced garlic, and crushed red pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
Add the Spinach: Add the frozen spinach and the remaining salt to the pan. Cook for about 5 minutes, until the spinach has softened and is well combined with the cilantro mixture.
Simmer the Stew: Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Lower the heat and return the cooked ground beef and toasted pine nuts to the pan. Simmer the stew for 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the stew to thicken.
Finish with Lemon: Stir in the lemon juice to finish. Serve the stew hot over traditional Arabic rice pilaf.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Flavorful and Hearty: This Lebanese spinach stew combines rich ground beef, aromatic spices, and the deep flavor of spinach, making it a comforting dish.
Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and minimal prep time, this stew comes together quickly and is perfect for a busy weeknight dinner.
Packed with Nutrients: The combination of spinach, ground beef, and cilantro provides a well-balanced, nutrient-rich meal that supports health and wellness.

Tips

Use Fresh Spinach: While frozen spinach is convenient, fresh spinach can be used for a slightly different texture and flavor.
Adjust Spices: If you like your stew spicier, feel free to add more crushed red pepper or a dash of chili flakes to suit your taste.
For Extra Flavor: Add a bit of cumin or coriander to the spice mix for an added layer of warmth.

Variations and Substitutions

Ground Turkey or Lamb: You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or lamb for a lighter or more traditional variation of this dish.
Vegetarian Option: Skip the meat and use a variety of beans or lentils for a vegetarian version of this stew.
Spinach Alternatives: If you can’t find frozen spinach, use fresh spinach or other leafy greens like Swiss chard or kale.

FAQs

Can I freeze this stew? Yes, this stew freezes well. Simply store it in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
Can I make this stew ahead of time? Absolutely! This stew tastes even better the next day, as the flavors continue to develop.

Serving

Rice: Serve this Lebanese spinach stew over traditional Arabic rice pilaf for a classic pairing. You can also serve it with crusty bread or pita for dipping.
Toppings: Garnish with extra fresh cilantro or a dollop of yogurt for added creaminess and freshness.

Suggestions

Side Salad: Pair the stew with a fresh cucumber and tomato salad drizzled with olive oil and lemon juice for a refreshing contrast.
Pickled Vegetables: Serve with a side of pickled vegetables for a tangy complement to the rich stew.