Easy Israeli Comfort Food

beef

🥗Healthier: chicken

💰Cheaper: pork

Chicken is leaner, while pork is often less expensive.

macaroni

🥗Healthier: whole wheat pasta

💰Cheaper: penne

Whole wheat pasta offers more fiber, and penne is often cheaper.

olive oil

🥗Healthier: avocado oil

💰Cheaper: canola oil

Avocado oil has a higher smoke point, while canola oil is budget-friendly.

chickpeas

🥗Healthier: lentils

💰Cheaper: black beans

Lentils are nutritious, while black beans are often less costly.

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.

Sauté chopped onions and garlic until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.

Add beef to the pot and brown on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.

Stir in tomato paste and cook for 2 minutes.

Add chopped potatoes, carrots, and chickpeas to the pot.

Pour in enough water to cover the ingredients.

Season with spices, bay leaves, salt, and black pepper.

Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and cover.

Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and add uncooked macaroni on top.

Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 1.5 hours.

Remove the foil and bake for an additional 30 minutes until the macaroni is tender and golden.

Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

Cooking Techniques

Spice Level: