Introduction
Indulge in the robust flavors of the Spiced Chicken Mince Spread, served on crispy Lebanese bread. This delightful dish combines aromatic spices with tender chicken, topped off with the richness of cheese and the freshness of herbs. Perfect for a quick meal or a flavorful appetizer, it’s sure to impress your guests or satisfy your cravings.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
For the Spiced Chicken Mince Spread:
– 125g (4 oz) chicken mince (ground chicken)
– 2 teaspoons tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon Baharat spice mix (Lebanese 7 spice)
– 1/2 teaspoon sweet or smoked paprika
– 1 garlic clove, crushed
– 1/4 teaspoon cooking salt (halve if using table salt)
– 1 tablespoon finely chopped parsley or coriander/cilantro (optional; can substitute with 1 teaspoon dried oregano)
– 1 1/2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (for cooking)
For the Base:
– 1 Lebanese bread (~30cm/12″) or other thin flatbread
Essential Toppings:
– Extra virgin olive oil
– 2 tablespoons Danish feta or goat cheese, crumbled (or regular feta)
Optional Toppings:
– Lemon juice, a light drizzle
– Dried chili flakes/red pepper flakes
– 1 tablespoon toasted pine nuts, roughly chopped (or substitute with pistachios, almonds, or sesame seeds)
– 1 teaspoon finely chopped parsley or coriander/cilantro
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time
3 minutes
Total Time
13 minutes
Yield
Serves 1-2 people
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Bread:
– If necessary, trim the Lebanese bread to fit your pan, cutting along one side to maintain its integrity.
Mix the Chicken Spread:
– In a bowl, combine the chicken mince, tomato paste, Baharat spice mix, paprika, crushed garlic, salt, and chopped herbs (if using).
– Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
Assemble the Pizza:
– Spread the chicken mixture evenly over one side of the bread, ensuring a thin, uniform layer.
Cook the Meat Side:
– Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large non-stick pan over high heat.
– Place the bread meat-side down in the pan.
– Cook for approximately 1.5 minutes, pressing down lightly to encourage browning.
Crisp the Bread Side:
– Using tongs, flip the bread so the bread side is down.
– Cook for another 1.5 minutes until the bread is golden and crispy.
– If browning too quickly, reduce the heat slightly.
Add Toppings:
– Transfer the cooked pizza to a cutting board.
– Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil.
– Sprinkle crumbled feta or goat cheese over the top.
– Add any optional toppings as desired.
Serve:
– Cut the pizza into slices and serve immediately.
Notes
Ingredient Substitutions:
– You can use dried oregano as a substitute for fresh herbs.
– Other cheeses like regular feta can replace Danish feta or goat cheese.
Cooking Method:
– Ensure the pan is hot enough to achieve a crispy texture on the bread.
– Adjust the heat to prevent burning during cooking.
Serving Suggestions:
– Consider serving with a side salad or dipping sauce for additional flavor and texture.
Cook techniques
Preparing Lebanese Bread
Cut the Lebanese bread as needed to fit your pan, ensuring the cut is clean to maintain the bread’s structure.
Mixing the Chicken Spread
Combine chicken mince, tomato paste, Baharat spice mix, paprika, crushed garlic, salt, and herbs in a bowl. Mix well until fully combined for an even flavor.
Assembling the Pizza
Spread the chicken mixture evenly on one side of the Lebanese bread, ensuring a thin and uniform layer for consistent cooking and flavor.
Cooking the Meat Side
Heat olive oil in a non-stick pan over high heat. Place the bread meat-side down and press lightly for optimal browning, cooking for about 1.5 minutes.
Crisping the Bread Side
Flip the bread to cook the bread side down, frying for another 1.5 minutes until golden and crispy. Adjust heat if the bread browns too quickly.
Adding Toppings
After cooking, transfer the pizza to a board, drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle with cheese and optional toppings as desired for added flavor.
FAQ
Can I use different spices instead of Baharat?
Yes, you can experiment with other spice blends that you enjoy, but the flavor profile will vary.
What can I substitute for chicken mince?
Turkey mince or a plant-based alternative can be used as substitutes for chicken mince.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
You can replace the chicken mince with a mixture of vegetables or a plant-based meat substitute while keeping the other ingredients the same.
What is the best way to store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving for best results.
Can I freeze the chicken spread?
Yes, you can freeze the chicken spread before cooking. Thaw in the refrigerator before use.
Conclusion
This Spiced Chicken Mince Spread on Lebanese bread serves as a delicious and versatile dish that can be customized with various toppings to suit your taste. The combination of spices provides a rich flavor, while the optional toppings add a delightful crunch and tang. Enjoy this dish as a satisfying meal or a crowd-pleasing appetizer.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Vegetarian Variation
Replace the chicken mince with a mixture of finely chopped mushrooms and cooked lentils, seasoned with the same spices for a hearty vegetarian option.
Mediterranean Flatbread
Top your spiced chicken spread with diced cucumbers, tomatoes, and olives for a refreshing Mediterranean twist.
Spicy Kick
Add sliced jalapeños or any preferred hot pepper to the chicken mixture before cooking for an extra layer of heat.
Herbed Chicken Spread
Mix in fresh herbs such as mint or dill along with the parsley or coriander to enhance the flavor profile even further.
Nutty Flavor Boost
Incorporate ground walnuts into the chicken mixture for added texture and nutritional benefits.
Cheesy Delight
Substitute regular feta with a spiced or herbed cream cheese for a creamier consistency and rich flavor.
Crunchy Topping
Top with a mixture of toasted seeds and nuts like sunflower seeds or almonds, offering a satisfying crunch alongside the creamy cheese.
