Lamb meatloaf

Traditional Lamb Haggis Recipe: A Festive Delicacy

Lamb haggis is an iconic recipe that pays homage to the culinary traditions of Easter celebrations. This dish is not only a delight for the taste buds but also a way to gather family around the table, evoking ancient memories and traditions. The haggis is a delicious combination of simple yet flavorful ingredients that transforms into a rich, savory dish.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 45-50 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Number of servings: 8-10 servings

Ingredients

- 1 kg lamb offal (liver, heart, lungs)
- 5-6 eggs (4 for the mixture, 1-2 for decoration)
- 3 large onions
- A bunch of fresh dill
- A bunch of fresh parsley
- A bunch of chervil (optional)
- 3-4 slices of bread (white or whole) soaked in milk
- Pepper (to taste)
- Salt (to taste)
- Caul fat (or parchment paper)
- Oil for greasing

Step by Step Guide

1. Preparing the Offal: Start by cleaning the lamb offal. Make sure it is well washed, then boil it in salted water. Cook for about 30-40 minutes until tender. Once cooled, pass it through a meat grinder.

2. Flavoring the Onion: Peel and finely chop the onion. In a pan, heat a little oil and sauté the onion over low heat, covered, until it becomes glassy and soft. This step is essential to release the sweet aroma of the onion, which will enrich the final taste of the haggis.

3. Chopping the Herbs: Wash and finely chop the herbs: dill, parsley, and, if you choose to use it, chervil. Fresh herbs will add a vibrant note and a fresh taste to the dish.

4. Mixing the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground offal, sautéed onion, herbs, soaked bread slices (well drained), the 4 whole eggs, salt, and pepper. Mix well until you get a homogeneous mixture. The consistency should be soft but not liquid. If necessary, you can add a little water or white wine to help smooth the mixture.

5. Preparing the Baking Tray: Preheat the oven to 180°C. Grease a loaf pan with oil and line it with caul fat. If you don’t have caul fat, you can use parchment paper to prevent sticking.

6. Assembling the Haggis: Pour the mixture into the pan, leveling it evenly. Carefully place 5 boiled eggs (boiled for 10 minutes and cooled) in the center of the mixture for a special look and surprising taste.

7. Baking: Place the tray in the preheated oven and let the haggis bake for 45-50 minutes. Check if it’s done by inserting a toothpick in the center; if it comes out clean, the haggis is perfect.

8. Cooling and Serving: Let the haggis cool slightly in the tray, then remove it onto a wooden board. You can decorate it with fresh herbs or slices of boiled eggs for a festive look. Cut it into slices and serve with a fresh salad or pickles.

Practical Tips

- Ingredient Variations: If you don’t like chervil, you can replace it with other herbs like basil or oregano. You can also experiment by adding sautéed mushrooms or pork for a richer flavor.

- Serving: Lamb haggis pairs perfectly with a tomato and onion salad or assorted pickles. A glass of dry white wine is perfect to accompany this dish.

- Storage: The haggis can be kept in the fridge for 2-3 days, and the flavor actually improves the next day. You can reheat it in the oven or microwave.

Nutritional Benefits

Lamb haggis is an excellent source of protein due to the offal and eggs, and it has a high content of essential vitamins and minerals, such as iron and vitamin B12. Fresh herbs provide additional antioxidants and fiber, contributing to a balanced diet.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use another type of meat?
Yes, you can experiment with beef or pork, but the taste and texture will be different.

2. Is the haggis suitable for vegans?
This recipe is not suitable for vegans, but you can look for vegetable and grain haggis alternatives.

3. How can I make it spicier?
Add spices like paprika or chopped hot peppers to the mixture.

4. Can it be frozen?
Yes, the haggis can be frozen. Make sure it is well wrapped in plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn.

Conclusion

Lamb haggis is not just a dish but a tradition that connects us to loved ones and childhood memories. By experimenting with ingredients and methods, you can create a personalized haggis that reflects your culinary style. So don’t hesitate to try this recipe and share it with your loved ones during this special time! Wishing you happy holidays filled with flavor!