World Recipe: Lehmeyun

03 May World Recipe: Lehmeyun

Lehmeyun is a traditional dish from Armenia, lovingly prepared and passed down from generation to generation. Often compared to a thin flatbread topped with seasoned meat, this recipe reflects the warmth of Middle Eastern and Caucasian cuisine. Simple ingredients come together to create a rich, aromatic and satisfying meal that is best enjoyed hot, with a squeeze of fresh lemon.

Ingredients

For the dough:

• 2 cups flour
• 1/2 cup warm water
• 1/3 cup oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 teaspoons baking powder

For the topping:

• 500 g lean minced beef
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 red bell pepper, finely chopped
• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and black pepper
• Tomato sauce (about 1 cup)
• Juice of 1/2 lemon
• 1 teaspoon sugar

Preparation

• To prepare the dough, mix all the dry ingredients in a bowl.
• Gradually add the oil and warm water in small amounts, alternating between the two, and knead until you get a soft and manageable dough. If it feels too sticky, add a little more flour.
• Divide into small portions and roll each into thin discs about 10–12 cm wide.
• For the topping, combine the minced beef with the chopped onion and red bell pepper.
• Season with salt, pepper and about two tablespoons of chopped parsley. Mix well. Add the tomato sauce, lemon juice and sugar, stirring until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
• Preheat the oven to its highest setting. Place the dough discs on an ungreased baking tray and spread a thin layer of the meat mixture over each one.
• Bake for about 15 minutes until cooked through.
• Remove from the oven and stack them while baking the next batch.

Serve hot with lemon wedges on the side, allowing each person to squeeze fresh juice over their lehmeyun before enjoying.