Slow Cooked Meat: Very Simple and Delicious Way of Cooking Belen Tava (Beef or Lamb Recipe)

Refika's Kitchen

Video Stats

Channel: Refika's Kitchen
Host: Refika's Kitchen
Published: May 27, 2025
Views: 30.6k

Recipe Overview

Prep: 10 min
Cook: 60 min
Difficulty: Intermediate
Serves: 8

Overview

This Slow Cooked Meat recipe is a delightful way to prepare tender beef or lamb, perfect for family gatherings or special occasions like Ramadan iftar. The dish shines with its simplicity and the use of fresh ingredients like garlic, peppers, and tomatoes, which meld beautifully during the slow cooking process. The choice of a clay pot or cast iron pan not only enhances the cooking experience but also ensures that the meat becomes incredibly tender and flavorful.

The preparation is straightforward, taking only about 10 minutes, making it accessible for cooks of all skill levels. The key is to allow the meat to cook slowly, which helps it absorb all the delicious flavors from the vegetables and spices. The addition of tomato paste is a clever touch, as it brings a depth of umami that elevates the entire dish.

As you prepare this meal, you’ll find that the aroma fills your kitchen, inviting everyone to gather around the table. It’s a dish that encourages sharing and enjoying together, making it ideal for gatherings. Whether served with bread or bulgur, this Slow Cooked Meat recipe is sure to impress and satisfy everyone at the table.

Recipe Details

Steps & Tips

1
00:52

Heat a cast iron pan.

2
00:55

Add butter to the pan to season it.

01:01

Tip: Using butter instead of tail fat can be a good alternative for flavor.

3
01:34

Add the meat to the pan and season with salt and black pepper.

4
01:50

Add chopped garlic, green peppers, red pepper, onion, and tomatoes to the meat.

02:34

Tip: Beating the garlic helps release its juices and oils for better flavor.

5
03:19

Add a teaspoon of salt, a little less than a teaspoon of black pepper, thyme, and red pepper.

03:37

Tip: Using tomato puree instead of paste can enhance the umami flavor of the dish.

6
03:48

Add a tablespoon of tomato paste and 200 mL of water.

04:03

Tip: Ripe tomatoes are high in umami, which improves the taste of your food.

7
04:12

Crinkle and fold baking paper to make it easily foldable.

8
04:39

Cut the folded baking paper into a triangle shape.

9
04:50

Preheat the oven to 220°C.

10
05:00

Cover the dish and cook for at least an hour.

05:14

Tip: Covering the dish while cooking helps retain moisture and tenderness.

11
05:29

Serve the dish with bread or bulgur.

06:24

Tip: Fresh parsley adds a nice touch as a garnish.

12
06:31

Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and ground black pepper.

06:41

Tip: Soaking bread in the dish enhances the flavor experience.

Ingredients

Serves: 8
Garlic10 cloves
Butter50g
Green Pepper2
Red Pepper1
Onion1
Tomato3
Salt1 tsp
Black Pepper1 tsp
Tomato Paste1 tbsp
Water200ml

Nutrition

Calories
450
kcal per serving
Protein
30
per serving
Carbs
20
per serving

Skill Level

Skill Level Intermediate
Beginner Intermediate Advanced

Frequently asked questions

Below you will find answers to the most common questions about this recipe.

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Interesting Tidbits

  • Using a clay pot helps retain heat and moisture, making the meat incredibly tender.
  • Beating garlic before chopping releases its juices, enhancing the flavor in the dish.
  • Tomato paste adds umami flavor, making the dish richer and more satisfying.
  • This recipe can be adapted for both beef and lamb, allowing for versatility.