Are you craving a vibrant, flavorful meal that transports you to the bustling souks of Morocco? Then look no further! This recipe for Moroccan Ground Lamb is a delicious and surprisingly easy way to bring the exotic spices and rich tastes of Morocco right to your dinner table. It's perfect for a weeknight dinner, impressing guests, or simply enjoying a healthy and satisfying meal on your own. This easy recipe is packed with aromatic spices and tender ground lamb, making it a fantastic addition to your repertoire of healthy meals and quick dinner ideas.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground lamb
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (or more, to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon saffron threads (optional, but adds beautiful color and flavor)
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1/2 cup chopped cilantro
- 1/4 cup chopped dried apricots (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil
Instructions:
-
Sauté the Aromatics: Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This step builds the foundation of flavor for your delicious dish.
-
Brown the Lamb: Add the ground lamb to the skillet and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease. This ensures your dish isn't overly greasy and enhances the overall taste.
-
Bloom the Spices: Stir in the ground ginger, cumin, turmeric, cayenne pepper, cinnamon, and saffron (if using). Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, to release their aromatic oils. This simple step significantly elevates the taste of your homemade cooking.
-
Simmer the Stew: Add the diced tomatoes (undrained) and chicken broth to the skillet. Bring to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the lamb is cooked through and the sauce has thickened slightly.
-
Stir in Herbs and Apricots: Stir in the chopped cilantro and dried apricots (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
-
Serve and Enjoy: Serve your flavorful Moroccan Ground Lamb hot, with a side of couscous, rice, or crusty bread for dipping. The best recipes often come from simple ingredients prepared with care and attention to detail.
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- Spice it Up: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to your preference. For a milder dish, omit it altogether or use a smaller amount. For a spicier kick, add more!
- Don't Overcook the Lamb: Overcooked ground lamb can become dry. Cook it until it's browned and cooked through, but not tough.
- Fresh Herbs Make a Difference: Using fresh cilantro adds a vibrant, fresh flavor that elevates the dish.
Variations:
- Add Vegetables: Incorporate other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or carrots for a heartier meal.
- Lemon Zest: A teaspoon of lemon zest adds brightness and a lovely citrus note.
- Different Dried Fruits: Experiment with other dried fruits like raisins or cranberries.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 25-30g
- Fat: 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: 15-20g
This Moroccan Ground Lamb recipe is a testament to how simple ingredients, combined with aromatic spices, can create a truly exceptional culinary experience. It’s a delicious and easy recipe that's perfect for any skill level, making it a valuable addition to your collection of food recipes and best recipes. Enjoy!