Cookbook:Suqaar (Somali Spiced Meat Stir-fry)

Suqaar is a flavorful and aromatic Somali meat stir-fry that is commonly served as a main course. This dish features tender pieces of meat cooked with a delightful blend of spices, onions, and bell peppers, creating a savory and satisfying meal.

Ingredients

 * 1 pound beef, thinly sliced
 * 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
 * 1 onion, finely chopped
 * 2 cloves of garlic, minced
 * 1 tomato, diced
 * 1 bell pepper, thinly sliced
 * 1 teaspoon ground cumin
 * 1 teaspoon ground coriander
 * 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
 * ½ teaspoon ground cayenne pepper
 * Salt, to taste
 * Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped, for garnish

Equipment

 * Large skillet or frying pan
 * Cutting board
 * Knife

Procedure

 * 1) In a large skillet or frying pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
 * 2) Add the finely chopped onion to the hot oil and sauté until it becomes soft and translucent.
 * 3) Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
 * 4) Add the thinly sliced beef to the pan and cook until it browns and develops a nice sear on both sides.
 * 5) Toss in the diced tomato and thinly sliced bell pepper. Continue to stir-fry until the vegetables soften slightly.
 * 6) Sprinkle the ground cumin, coriander, turmeric, and cayenne pepper over the meat and vegetables. Mix well to evenly coat everything with the spices.
 * 7) Season with salt to taste, adjusting the seasoning according to your preference.
 * 8) Lower the heat to medium-low, cover the skillet, and let the suqaar simmer for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the meat to become tender.
 * 9) Once the meat is fully cooked and tender, remove the skillet from the heat.
 * 10) Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro or parsley before serving.

Notes, tips, and variations

 * Suqaar is typically enjoyed with Somali flatbread or rice, and it pairs well with a side of Somali salad or chutney.
 * Feel free to adjust the level of spiciness by adding more or less cayenne pepper to suit your taste.
 * You can also add additional vegetables, such as carrots or peas, to enhance the nutritional value and add color to the dish.
 * For a vegetarian version, you can substitute the beef with tofu or tempeh and adjust the cooking time accordingly.
 * Beef is a rich source of protein, iron, and various B-vitamins.