Easy Shakriya Recipe – The Best Syrian Yogurt Stew
Shakriya recipe
Today on the Takrecipe website, we’re making Shakriya, a delicious and comforting Syrian yogurt stew. This dish features tender meat simmered in a rich, creamy yogurt sauce, seasoned with warm spices. It is typically enjoyed with rice or bread, making it a satisfying meal perfect for family gatherings. The balance of tangy yogurt, fragrant spices, and tender meat makes this dish an irresistible part of Middle Eastern cuisine.
Ingredients
- For the Meat:
- 500g lamb or beef (cut into chunks)
- 1 onion (quartered)
- 1 bay leaf
- 3 cups water
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 cinnamon stick
- For the Yogurt Sauce:
- 2 cups plain yogurt (full-fat)
- 1 egg
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 cup meat broth (from cooking the meat)
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp white pepper
- 1 tbsp dried mint (optional, for garnish)
- For Serving:
- Cooked white rice or pita bread
Cook the Meat
In a large pot, add the meat chunks, quartered onion, bay leaf, cinnamon stick, salt, and black pepper. Pour in 3 cups of water and bring to a boil over medium heat. Skim off any foam that forms on the surface, then cover and simmer for about 45 minutes until the meat is tender. Once done, remove the meat from the broth and set aside. Strain the broth and keep 1 cup for the yogurt sauce.
Prepare the Yogurt Sauce
In a large mixing bowl, whisk the yogurt, egg, and cornstarch until smooth and well combined. Gradually add the 1 cup of reserved meat broth while whisking continuously to prevent curdling. Transfer the mixture to a pot and cook over medium-low heat, stirring constantly in one direction to maintain a smooth texture. Once the sauce thickens slightly (about 10 minutes), season with salt and white pepper.
Combine the Meat and Sauce
Add the cooked meat into the yogurt sauce, stirring gently to coat the meat evenly. Simmer on low heat for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the flavors meld together. Avoid boiling the yogurt sauce, as high heat may cause it to separate.
Serve and Garnish
Pour the Shakriya into serving bowls. Garnish with dried mint for an aromatic finish. Serve hot with steamed rice or warm pita bread.
Cooking Tips:
Use full-fat yogurt
🟢to ensure a creamy and rich sauce that doesn’t split during cooking.
Whisk continuously
🟢while heating the yogurt to prevent curdling—stir in one direction for a smooth consistency.
Simmer gently
🟢once the meat is added to avoid breaking the sauce texture; never let it reach a full boil.