Lamb meatloaf with spinach

Lamb Haggis with Spinach: A Traditional Recipe Full of Flavor and Color

Lamb haggis is an emblematic dish that evokes the joy of Easter celebrations, but it's delicious any day of the year. This recipe not only combines the delicate flavors of lamb with the freshness of spinach, but also offers a palette of greens that will delight the eyes and taste buds. I will guide you step by step through this process so that you can achieve a perfect, flavorful haggis.

Preparation Time

- Prep time: 30 minutes
- Cooking time: 1 hour
- Total: 1 hour and 30 minutes
- Servings: 8

Ingredients

- 500 g lamb meat (choose fresh meat, ideally from the leg for a more tender texture)
- 1 kg spinach (fresh is best, but frozen can work too)
- 3 eggs (preferably organic for better flavor)
- 3 large bunches of green onions
- 3 bunches of green garlic
- 2 large bunches of dill
- 2 large bunches of parsley
- 200 ml oil (olive oil adds a distinct flavor)
- 2 onions (for added sweetness)
- 100 g rice (preferably long-grain)
- 1 tablespoon flour (for greasing the baking dish)
- Salt and pepper to taste

A Brief History

Lamb haggis has deep roots in culinary traditions, symbolizing rebirth and fertility. It is often prepared during holidays, serving as an excellent way to use all parts of the lamb, including the organs, which are rich in nutrients and flavor. Combining these with fresh greens creates a healthy and nourishing dish, perfect to be enjoyed alongside a light salad or fresh bread.

Step by Step: Preparing Lamb Haggis

1. Preparing the Spinach
- Remove the stems and veins from the spinach, washing it well under a strong stream of water. It is important to remove any impurities for a smooth texture.
- Boil the spinach in salted water for 10 minutes, then drain and reserve the liquid. Chop the spinach finely to easily incorporate it into the mixture.

2. Preparing the Meat
- Cut the lamb into small pieces, wash it well, and dry it with a clean towel. Sauté the meat in a little oil until it is lightly browned. This process will add depth to the flavor.

3. Cooking the Vegetables
- In the remaining oil, add the chopped onions and green garlic, sautéing them until translucent. This will add a savory aroma to your mixture.
- Add a tablespoon of flour and sauté briefly, then add a few tablespoons of the reserved spinach liquid to achieve a uniform mixture. Turn off the heat and let it cool.

4. Cooking the Rice
- Rinse the rice well under cold water and cook it in the reserved spinach liquid. This will add a subtle hint of flavor and color to the rice. Once cooked, drain and let it cool.

5. The Final Mixture
- Using a meat grinder, grind the sautéed meat. In a large bowl, mix the ground meat with the spinach, cooked rice, sautéed onions, herbs (dill and parsley), and the two beaten eggs. Season to taste with salt and pepper.
- Mix well until the mixture is homogeneous. It is essential that each ingredient is evenly distributed to achieve a uniform haggis.

6. Preparing the Baking Dish
- Grease a baking dish with oil and flour, ensuring it is well coated to prevent sticking.

7. Baking
- Pour the mixture into the dish and place it in a preheated oven at 180°C for about 40 minutes.
- When the haggis is nearly done, remove the dish from the oven and brush the top with a beaten egg. This will create a golden, appetizing crust. Return it to the oven until the egg is set and the haggis turns golden.

Serving and Pairing

Lamb haggis is served warm or at room temperature, sliced into pieces. It can be accompanied by a fresh vegetable salad or garlic mayonnaise, which will enhance the flavors. Additionally, a dry white wine can perfectly complement this meal.

Useful Tips

- Quality ingredients make the difference: Use fresh lamb and organic greens for the best results.
- Variations: You can add mushrooms or grated zucchini to the mixture for added texture and flavor.
- Storage: Haggis can be kept in the refrigerator for 3-4 days and can be reheated in the oven or microwave.
- Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use other types of meat? Yes, you can use pork or beef, but the flavor will be different.
- How can I make the haggis spicier? Add red peppercorns or chili flakes to the mixture.

Nutritional Benefits

Lamb haggis is an excellent source of protein, vitamins, and minerals. Spinach provides a significant amount of iron and vitamin K, while the herbs contribute valuable antioxidants. Additionally, this dish is rich in fiber due to the rice and vegetables, making it a healthy choice for the whole family.

The cooking experience can be a true pleasure, and lamb haggis with spinach is certainly a recipe that will bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones. Feel free to experiment and add your own personal touch!