Nutritional Benefits of Lebanese-Style Kafta Bil Synniyi: A Flavorful and Nourishing Oven-Baked Tray

Lebanese-Style Kafta Bil Synniyi presents a delightful twist on the traditional dish, offering not just rich flavors but also a host of nutritional benefits. This variant extends the kafta meat mixture over a tray, layered with slices of potatoes and tomatoes, and generously covered with a tomato paste sauce before being baked to perfection in the oven. Let's delve into the nutritional value of this mouthwatering creation.

Kafta Bil Synniyi is primarily composed of minced lamb or beef meat, blended with chopped parsley, onions, and seasoned with pepper and salt. This meat mixture serves as an excellent source of high-quality protein, crucial for muscle repair, growth, and overall bodily functions.

Moreover, Lebanese-Style Kafta Bil Synniyi boasts a rich array of vitamins and minerals derived from its wholesome ingredients. Fresh parsley and tomatoes provide essential nutrients such as:

- Vitamin C: Boosts immune function, aids in collagen production (42 mg in parsley per 100g, 13.7 mg in tomatoes per 100g), and enhances iron absorption.

- Vitamin K: Supports bone health (164 µg in parsley per 100g, 13.9 µg in tomatoes per 100g), assists in blood clotting, and promotes heart health.

- Folate: Essential for cell division, DNA synthesis (89 µg in parsley per 100g, 23 µg in tomatoes per 100g), and the formation of red blood cells.

Additionally, parsley and tomatoes contribute minerals such as:

- Potassium: Regulates blood pressure, supports nerve function (554 mg in parsley per 100g, 237 mg in tomatoes per 100g), and enhances muscle strength.

- Manganese: Supports metabolism, bone development (0.2 mg in parsley per 100g, 0.1 mg in tomatoes per 100g), and antioxidant defense.

Furthermore, this dish offers dietary fiber from ingredients like potatoes and tomatoes, promoting digestive health and aiding in satiety.

Moreover, the healthy fats from the meat and olive oil used in the tomato paste sauce contribute to a balanced diet, supporting brain function, hormone production, and the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins.

Accompanied by nutritious side dishes such as fresh salads or yogurt-based sauces, Lebanese-Style Kafta Bil Synniyi is not only a delicious and satisfying dish but also a nutritional powerhouse, providing a wide range of essential nutrients to support overall health and well-being.