Belen Tava Recipe and Its Place in Turkish Cuisine

Turkish cuisine is world-renowned for its centuries-old rich culture and regional flavours. One of the most special dishes in this culinary heritage is Belen Tava. Particularly popular in the Hatay region, this dish stands out for both its taste and its place on iftar tables. During Ramadan, it frequently appears on Belen Tava - Ramadan recipe - 21st day iftar menu lists.

Belen Tava takes its name from the Belen district of Hatay and represents a unique example of meat dishes from the region. Prepared with local ingredients, it typically combines lamb, tomatoes, and peppers. The flavour of the tava comes from the careful balance of spices and the meticulous cooking of the meat.

Meat dishes hold a vital role in Turkish cuisine, especially during Ramadan, when they are an essential part of iftar meals. However, the difference with Belen Tava is that, alongside meat, it is served with garnishes and vegetables, making it both hearty and light. It is an ideal dish to refresh the body after a day of fasting, particularly on the 21st day of Ramadan.

Belen Tava is also often chosen for serving guests at regional tables. It offers an impressive presentation and, with its aromatic sauce, stimulates the appetite throughout the meal. The sauce, made with tomatoes, peppers, and garlic, gives the dish its distinctive taste.

Belen Tava Recipe

Ingredients

• 500 grams lamb (cut into cubes)

• 3 ripe tomatoes

• 2 green peppers

• 1 red pepper

• 2 garlic cloves

• 1 teaspoon black pepper

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

• 1 cup hot water

Preparation Steps

1. Preparing the Meat

Start by washing the lamb thoroughly and cutting it into cubes. For more flavour, you can marinate the meat; marinating with olive oil, salt, and black pepper will make it more tender during cooking.

2. Preparing the Vegetables

Wash the tomatoes and peppers and chop them into large pieces. Crush or finely chop the garlic. This step forms the foundation of the dish’s aroma.

3. Cooking

Heat a large pan over the stove and add the olive oil. First, sauté the meat, then add the peppers. Once the peppers soften, add the tomatoes and garlic. Cook the mixture over medium heat for 15–20 minutes.

4. Adding Sauce and Spices

While the dish is cooking, pour in the hot water and add the spices. Red pepper flakes add a slight heat and balance the flavour. Simmer over low heat for another 10–15 minutes.

5. Serving

Belen Tava is at its most delicious when served hot. It can be accompanied by rice or a fresh salad. On Ramadan tables, it is especially ideal for those seeking a light dish after iftar.

Fruit Consumption: Is It Right to Eat Fruit Immediately After Iftar?

During Ramadan, desserts and fruits are essential parts of the table, raising questions about their health effects. A frequently asked question is: “Is it okay to eat fruit immediately after iftar?”

Fruits are rich in fibre and vitamins, providing the energy the body needs after fasting. However, they are recommended to be eaten either with the meal or 30–40 minutes after eating rather than on an empty stomach, as consuming fruit on a full stomach can cause digestive issues.

Eating fruit after a heavy meat dish like Belen Tava can aid digestion. Particularly fruits like apples, pears, or bananas, which are easy to digest, form an ideal combination with Belen Tava - Ramadan recipe - 21st day iftar menu on the 21st day of Ramadan.

Additionally, the natural sugars in fruit help restore energy after fasting. Choosing fruit instead of sugary desserts not only benefits health but also enhances the overall taste experience of the iftar table.

Enrich Your Ramadan Table with Belen Tava

Belen Tava holds a special place not only in the cuisine of Hatay but throughout Turkey. On the 21st day of Ramadan, it can enrich your table with both flavour and a traditional touch. Serving it with fruit creates a light and balanced iftar menu.

With this recipe, Belen Tava - Ramadan recipe - 21st day iftar menu can also rank in search results while offering your readers an unforgettable Ramadan experience.