If this is your first time hearing about Shish Barak, then good for you. A warm Middle Eastern dish that pairs tender dumplings of ground meat with yogurt sauce, both creamy and tangy. It is the Eastern cuisine with a unique twist of its own to savor.
In this blog, we will talk about what Sheesh Barak is, all about where it comes from, the ingredients used, how it is made, and why you should try it.
What Is This Dish All About?
Shish Barak, shishbarak, shushbarak, sheesh burak, or shushbarek are alternatives for the same dish. The dumplings exist in dual shape, either as hats or half moons, with filling contents consisting of minced lamb or beef mixed with onions and spices. Before using the prepared dumplings, they need to undergo baking or boiling.
The eating experience of this dish becomes exceptionally comforting as it serves as a main course throughout winter. Its popularity is very much felt in Lebanon, Syria, Jordan, and Palestine, but each country has its variations.
A Brief History of These Savoury Dumplings
Shushbarak has historical roots going back many centuries–possibly to times immediately after the Ottoman Empire or before that. The idea of dumplings in yogurt is said to have originated from Central Asia and spread throughout various Middle Eastern regions.
While its origin remains debatable, this dish has permanently cemented its name in the popular culture of the Levant.
Ingredients That Make Shish Dumplings Special
That is the beauty of Sheesh Barak — its flavors are simply balanced—the savory, the tangy, and the aromatic.
Here are the main ingredients:
For the Dough:
- All-purpose flour
- Water
- Salt
- Olive oil (optional)
For the Filling of Shish Barak:
- Ground lamb or beef (Mince)
- Finely chopped onion
- Salt, pepper, and allspice
- Pine nuts (optional, but adds a nice crunch)
For the Yogurt Sauce:
- Plain yogurt
- Egg (makes the sauce stable)
- Cornstarch or flour (for thickening, too)
- Garlic
- Dried mint
- Cilantro or parsley (fresh herbs to garnish)
How Do You Prepare it?
It sounds a bit difficult, but actually, it is an easy food to cook, particularly if you’re into making dumplings:
You can follow the steps below to perform the task:
- To produce dough, you must blend salt and water while mixing them with flour until they form a smooth texture. Knead briskly to smooth finish and allow to rest.
- Cook the Filling: Saute onions and ground meat with spices. Then cool it to room temperature.
- Roll the Dumplings: Roll out the dough and cut it into small circles. Then add some meat filling, fold it, and pinch the edges closed.
- Cook: You can bake them for a lighter version; otherwise, lightly boil until firm and cooked through.
- Stir Yogurt Sauce: Whisk yogurt with egg and some flour, then heat slowly while stirring. You can add garlic and dried mint for that signature flavor.
- Combine Everything: Add the dumplings in yogurt sauce, simmer a couple of minutes, and serve warm with fresh herbs.
What Sheesh Barak Tastes Like?
Shish Barak is pure comfort in a bowl. The dumplings are juicy, the sauce is rich and flavorful, and then you seal it all in at the finish with the yogurt mixture.
Why You Should Try It
Still debating whether you should give it a try or not? Here are some reasons to put one on your menu:
- Unique Yet Familiar: Those who love dumplings or yogurt-based sauces will find fulfillment in these dumplings.
- Customizable: Use whatever combination of lamb or beef; even a version for the vegetarians would be with mushrooms or lentils.
- Can be Frozen: You can make a big batch of dumplings and freeze them, to pop them into the sauce anytime for a quick lunch or dinner.
- Flavorful: It is rich and satisfying in every bite because of the ground meat and aromatic herbs.
A Few Tips to Help You Make the Best Shish Barak
A few quick tips to ensure your dumplings are perfect for you:
- Do Not Skip the Egg in the Sauce: It helps to stabilize it against curdling.
- Use Full-Fat Yogurt: It gives a richer, creamier taste.
- Right Time to Add Mint: Stir in your dried mint toward the end, so it does not lose its aroma.
- Get Your Dough to the Thinnest: Roll your dough thin, ensuring the dumplings turn out tender, not chewy.
Is Sheesh Barak Healthy?
Shishbarak can be a healthful dish when prepared from the freshest of ingredients.
- Protein-Packed: From the ground meat and the yogurt.
- Probiotics: Good bacteria for your gut are provided by yogurt.
- Well Balanced: You have carbohydrates from the dough, protein from the meat, and healthy fats added if you make it with olive oil or nuts.
If you are looking for a lighter alternative, try baking them instead of frying, choose low-fat yogurt, or put spinach in the filling.
Serving Suggestions for Shushbarek
Usually, shishbarak is served warm in a deep bowl. Elevate the meal even further with a few sides:
- Crunchy Arabic salad with cucumber, tomato, and lemon.
- Fresh pita bread that uses the sauce.
- Pickles on the side for contrast.
- Top the dish with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of chopped parsley, and voila
Shish Barak versus Other Dumpling Dishes
Shish burak, though, how does it measure up against other dumpling dishes like ravioli, manti, pelmeni, Armenian or Turkish manti, or its own kind?
- Ravioli: Italian ravioli is quite similar, but mostly filled with cheese and tomato sauce on top.
- Manti: Turkish or Armenian manti would seem smaller, last with more pungent stuffing, and usually dressed with garlic yogurt and chili oil.
- Pelmeni: Russian pelmeni are destined to be made of meat inside and usually boiled, but there is no yogurt part.
What sets Shish Burak apart is the sauce based on yogurt, adding a touch of tang to it and a very smooth feel to it.
Can I Buy Ready-Made Sheesh Barak?
Of course! Many of the frozen Shish dumplings are available in Middle Eastern grocery stores-already cooked and ready to be served with your yogurt sauce. It gives the bite without spending too many hours cooking it, but nothing beats homemade.
Shushbarak: Your Next Must-Try Middle Eastern Dish
If you are Middle Eastern or a very brave eater, then a plate of Shish Barak is worth exploring. From its simple dough to its rich filling and distinctive yogurt sauce mouthful tells a story.
