Kaliya Laham
Simple Sautéed Lamb/Beef with Onions
Yes, keto as served. About 7g net carbs per serving, lower than 5 in 10 Iraqi dishes.
What it is
A straightforward and hearty Iraqi dish featuring tender pieces of lamb or beef, simply sautéed in a generous amount of oil or ghee with sliced onions and often green peppers. Seasoned with traditional Iraqi spices like black pepper and a touch of cumin. Served hot as a main course, naturally free of grains or starchy vegetables.
Key ingredients
Lamb or beef stew meat (cubed), onions, green peppers, cooking oil (e.g., vegetable, sunflower, ghee), black pepper, salt, cumin, dried lime powder (optional).
Optional tweaks
Ensure no potatoes are added (traditionally uncommon in this simple version, but sometimes an addition). Request minimal tomato paste if used, or omit entirely. Focus on fatty cuts of meat.
Say this to the waiter (Arabic)
قلية لحم، لو سمحت بدون بطاطا. وخفف معجون البندورة أو ألغيه بالمرة. وبدي قطع لحم دهنية.
For the Kaliya Laham, please ensure no potatoes are added. Minimal tomato paste, or none. And use fatty cuts of meat.
Watch out for
Excessive use of high-carb vegetables, hidden sugar in pre-made spice blends or sauces (rare for this dish, but possible).
Macros are estimates for a typical serving and vary by restaurant. Confirm ingredients with staff, especially if you have allergies. Our ingredient lists are generated automatically and describe how a dish is typically made.
More on the Iraqi menuAll 262 Iraqi dishes ›
