Cookbook:Sharmoula bil Lahm (Libyan Marinated Meat Sharmoula)

Sharmoula bil lahm is a flavorful Libyan dish featuring marinated meat cooked to perfection. The marinade, known as sharmoula, is made with a combination of aromatic herbs and spices that infuse the meat with a delicious and fragrant taste. It is a popular dish that is often enjoyed during special occasions and gatherings.

Ingredients

 * 4 cloves of garlic, minced
 * ¼ cup olive oil
 * 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
 * 2 teaspoons ground cumin
 * 2 teaspoons ground paprika
 * 1 teaspoon ground coriander
 * ½ teaspoon ground cayenne pepper (adjust according to spice preference)
 * ½ teaspoon salt
 * ¼ teaspoon black pepper
 * 1 kg (2.2 lbs) boneless beef or lamb cubes
 * Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped, for garnish

Equipment

 * Mixing bowl
 * Chef's knife
 * Cutting board
 * Skewers
 * Grill or grill pan
 * Basting brush
 * Plastic wrap

Procedure

 * 1) In a mixing bowl, combine the minced garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, ground cumin, paprika, coriander, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to form a smooth marinade.
 * 2) Add the beef or lamb cubes to the marinade and toss them until they are evenly coated. Ensure that each piece of meat is well covered with the marinade.
 * 3) Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2–4 hours to allow the flavors to meld and the meat to absorb the marinade.
 * 4) Preheat the grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
 * 5) Thread the marinated meat onto skewers, leaving a small gap between each piece.
 * 6) Place the skewers on the grill or grill pan and cook for approximately 10–15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the meat is cooked to your desired level of doneness.
 * 7) While grilling, brush any remaining marinade onto the meat for added flavor and moisture.
 * 8) Once cooked, remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes.
 * 9) Garnish with fresh chopped parsley or cilantro before serving.

Notes, tips, and variations

 * The marinated meat can also be cooked in the oven under the broiler or in a preheated oven at 200°C (400°F) for about 20–30 minutes, turning halfway through.
 * For a smoky flavor, you can add a pinch of smoked paprika or use a charcoal grill.
 * If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes prior to grilling to prevent them from burning.
 * Sharmoula can also be used to marinate chicken or seafood for a different flavor profile.
 * For a vegetarian option, marinate vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, and eggplant in the sharmoula marinade, and then grill or roast them until tender.