Prep Time 15 Min
Cook Time 35 Min
Servings4 servings People
Calories600 kcal
This lamb stew with fruits is a dish that my family loves to enjoy on chilly weekends. It’s simple enough to prepare but brings out rich flavors that make it perfect for gatherings. The combination of tender lamb and sweet fruits like apricots and plums creates a lovely balance. I remember when I accidentally added a bit too much cumin once—I had to adjust with a pinch of sugar to balance it out, which turned out fine, so no worries if you want to tweak things a bit. The cooking process fills the kitchen with fragrant spices, and by the time it’s ready, everyone is eager to sit at the table.
Ingredients
- 0.5 teaspoon ginger
- 0.5 teaspoon cumin
- 0.5 teaspoon turmeric
- 0.5 teaspoon coriander
- 2.2 pounds lamb, cut into pieces
- 1 cup dried apricots
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 0.25 cup tomato paste
- 5 small peeled potatoes
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 0.25 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 cup pitted dried plums
- 2.5 cups beef broth
- 6 small peeled onions
- 1 tomato, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons butter
- Fresh coriander leaves for garnish
Instructions
- Heat the butter in a pot until it smokes.
- Add the lamb pieces and brown them on all sides, then remove from the pot.
- Lower the heat and add the garlic and onion, cooking for about two minutes.
- Stir in the tomato paste and diced tomato, cooking for three minutes.
- Add the cumin, turmeric, ginger, coriander, and cinnamon, cooking for an additional minute.
- Return the browned lamb to the pot, and stir. Then add the potatoes, apricots, plums, and small onions.
- Pour in the beef broth and season with salt and pepper.
- Cover the pot and let the mixture simmer over low heat for seventy minutes.
- Sprinkle fresh coriander over the dish before serving.
What I Notice When Cooking
- Using dried fruits enhances the flavor profile, adding a subtle sweetness to the savory elements.
- The texture of the potatoes is key; you want them tender but not mushy to provide a nice bite.
- This dish is often better the next day, as the flavors meld together beautifully overnight.
Small Adjustments
- When browning meat, avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure a good sear.
- If you like a thicker stew, remove the lid for the last 15 minutes of cooking to reduce the liquid slightly.
- You could switch the dried fruit based on what you have; prunes or raisins can work in place of the plums or apricots.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in a microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen it up if needed. The stew tends to thicken, so this can help restore the desired consistency.
Nutritional Notes
Each serving contains approximately 600 calories, with a balance of protein, carbohydrates, and fats from the meat and added fruits. Keep in mind that this is a hearty meal, so serve it with lighter sides for a complete meal.
