Lamb stew

Lamb stew – a delicacy that brings flavors and traditions to the Easter table

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Number of servings: 4

General description

Lamb stew is a dish that evokes pleasant memories, often prepared on festive days. This simple and flavorful recipe will take you on a culinary journey filled with traditions. Using fresh ingredients and accessible cooking techniques, you will create a savory dish, perfect for serving alongside loved ones.

Ingredients

1. Lamb meat (neck, spine with tenderloin) – 1 kg: Choose fresh meat with a pink appearance and evenly distributed fat for a richer taste.
2. Green onions – 4 bunches: Green onions add a note of freshness and a subtle flavor to the dish.
3. Green garlic – 2 bunches: Green garlic provides a delicate taste, perfect for complementing the lamb.
4. Saffron – 1 tablespoon: Saffron, a precious spice, will give a golden color and a distinctive flavor to the stew.
5. Sweet paprika – 1 tablespoon: This will add a layer of flavor and a hint of color.
6. Hot paprika – 1 tablespoon: A touch of heat that will balance the flavors.
7. Cornstarch – 1 tablespoon: Used to thicken the sauce, providing a creamy texture.
8. Salt and pepper – to taste: Season according to your preferences, but remember that lamb has a strong flavor that deserves to be highlighted.

Cooking techniques

1. Preparing the meat: Start by cutting the lamb meat into evenly sized cubes so that it cooks evenly. Wash the meat well under cold running water and pat it dry with a paper towel to remove excess water.

2. Heating the oil: In a large skillet, heat a few tablespoons of olive oil (or sunflower oil) over medium heat. Make sure the oil is hot but not smoking to prevent burning the meat.

3. Browning the meat: Add the meat to the hot oil and let it brown evenly on all sides. This will seal in the juices and add delicious flavor. Remove the meat from the skillet and set it aside.

4. Sautéing the onions and garlic: In the same skillet, add the sliced green onions and finely chopped green garlic. Sauté them for 2-3 minutes until they become translucent and release their aromas.

5. Adding the spices: Return the meat to the skillet over the onions and garlic. Add the sweet and hot paprika, mixing well to coat the meat with the spices.

6. Simmering the meat: Pour enough water to cover the meat and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer, covered, for about 40 minutes. This is when the flavors combine and the meat becomes tender.

7. Adding saffron and broth: When the meat is almost cooked, add the saffron and broth. These ingredients will enhance the flavor and color of the stew.

8. Thickening the sauce: In a small bowl, dissolve the cornstarch in a few tablespoons of cold water. Add it to the stew and mix well. Let it boil for a few moments to thicken the sauce.

9. Finishing the dish: Once the sauce reaches the desired consistency, add salt and pepper to taste. Finally, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley for an extra touch of freshness.

Serving suggestions

Lamb stew pairs wonderfully with side dishes like mashed potatoes, rice, or sautéed vegetables. A simple green salad or sautéed spinach with garlic will perfectly complement this dish, providing a pleasant contrast of textures and flavors.

For a touch of elegance, you can serve it with a bottle of white or red wine, which will perfectly accompany the intense flavors of the lamb.

Possible variations

Experiment with different herbs and spices, such as rosemary or thyme, to add a personal touch to your stew. You can also try adding vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or peas to enrich the dish and make it more colorful.

Nutritional benefits

Lamb meat is an excellent source of protein, vitamin B12, zinc, and iron, essential for the body's health. Garlic and onions have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, while saffron is known for its beneficial effects on mood.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use other types of meat?
Yes, you can use beef or pork, but the cooking time will vary.

2. How can I make the stew spicier?
Add more hot paprika or other spicy seasonings, such as cayenne pepper.

3. Can the stew be frozen?
Yes, the stew freezes well. Make sure to let it cool completely before storing it in airtight containers.

4. What are the best side dishes for lamb stew?
Mashed potatoes, rice, or sautéed vegetables are excellent options that perfectly complement the dish.

Whether you prepare it for a special occasion or simply to indulge yourself, this lamb stew will bring a touch of magic to every meal. Enjoy your meal!