Snacks, Sandwiches, and Side Dishes (Vegetarian)

Spinach Omelet (Makhlama bil Sbenagh)

This is another beautiful variation on the traditional Iraqi omelet, makhlama, normally cooked with meat.

(Makes 6 servings)

• 2 tablespoons oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon curry powder
• 1/4 teaspoon turmeric
• 1 pound chopped fresh spinach or one 10-ounce frozen chopped spinach.
• 1/4 cup parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped, or 1 tablespoon dried dill weed
• 3/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 6 eggs
• Chili powder to taste

1. In a big non-stick skillet heat oil and sauti onion with curry powder and turmeric, about 5 minutes.
2. Add spinach, parsley, dill, salt and pepper. Stir gently until most of moisture evaporates.
3. Level surface with the back of a spoon, and make six indentations. Break eggs into dents. You may leave eggs whole, sunny-side-up, or zigzag surface with a knife to break yolks and let them mingle slightly with the whites.
4. Lower heat to low, and let eggs cook slowly, covered, until they are just set, about 5 minutes. Do not overcook, otherwise eggs will develop a leathery texture.

Or it can be cooked in the oven. Simply transfer spinach mixture to a greased baking pan, big enough to spread in about 1/2-inch layer. Then add eggs as described above, and bake in a preheated oven at 400 degrees F. until set, about 10 minutes. No need to cover.