Lamb stew with mint
Lamb Stew with Mint - a traditional recipe full of flavor and aroma
When it comes to traditional dishes, lamb stew is among the most beloved options, especially during the holiday season. This recipe is not only delicious but also easy to prepare, and the combination of tender lamb with fresh mint gives it an unmistakable touch. Let's embark on this culinary journey together!
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 50 minutes
Servings: 6
Ingredients
For the marinade:
- 1 kg lamb shoulder, cut into strips
- 8 fresh mint leaves
- 1 tablespoon coriander seeds
- 3-4 tablespoons lemon juice
- White pepper, to taste
- Salt, to taste
- 25 ml semi-dry red wine
- 2 garlic cloves
For cooking:
- 1 bunch green onions
- 1 bunch green garlic
- 3 garlic cloves
- 50 g herb butter (or regular butter)
- 50 ml semi-dry red wine
- 100 ml water
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
Preparation
1. Marinating the meat
Start by slicing the lamb shoulder into thin strips for even cooking. Place all the strips in a large bowl. Add salt, white pepper, coriander seeds, crushed garlic, lemon juice, and red wine. Mix well to ensure each piece of meat is evenly coated with the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes - the longer, the better!
2. Preparing the cooking ingredients
While the lamb is marinating, finely chop the green onions, green garlic, and the 3 garlic cloves. These will add a special flavor to the stew. You can also chop the fresh mint, reserving a few leaves for garnish.
3. Cooking the stew
In a large skillet or pot, add the herb butter and a teaspoon of olive oil. Sauté the green onions and green garlic for a few minutes until they become slightly translucent. Add the marinated lamb strips and brown them on all sides for an appetizing crust.
4. Adding flavors
Once the lamb is browned, add the crushed garlic, turmeric, and the remaining ingredients: red wine, water, and lemon juice. Cover the skillet with a lid and let the stew simmer on low heat for about 1 hour, stirring occasionally. This step is essential for allowing the flavors to develop and the meat to become tender.
5. Finalizing the dish
After the stew has cooked, check if the lamb is well-cooked and tender. Adjust the taste with salt and pepper if necessary. Add the chopped fresh mint and mix well.
6. Serving
Serve the lamb stew hot, garnished with fresh mint leaves. You can accompany this dish with a side of mashed potatoes or a crisp green salad. A bottle of semi-dry red wine alongside will perfectly complement the meal.
Useful tips
- Choosing the meat: Lamb shoulder is ideal for this recipe due to its fat content, which makes it tender and full of flavor. If you prefer a leaner option, you can opt for lamb leg.
- Marinating: Marinating the meat not only enhances its flavor but also helps tenderize the fibers, making them easier to digest.
- Variations: You can experiment with various herbs, such as basil or oregano, to give a personal touch to your recipe.
Nutritional benefits
Lamb is an excellent source of protein, B vitamins, and minerals such as zinc and iron. Additionally, mint has digestive properties and can help alleviate gastric discomfort.
Frequently asked questions
- Can I use pork instead of lamb? Yes, but you need to adjust the cooking time, as pork cooks faster.
- Can the lamb stew be frozen? Yes, the stew can be frozen, but make sure to let it cool completely before storing it in airtight containers.
- What other recipes can it be paired with? This dish pairs perfectly with wild rice or grilled vegetables, offering a contrast of textures and flavors.
Personal note
This lamb stew with mint recipe reminds me of family meals from my childhood when we gathered around the table to enjoy traditional dishes. I recommend trying to prepare it with your loved ones, as food has an extraordinary power to create beautiful memories.
I conclude with a suggestion: don't hesitate to try different combinations of herbs and spices to find the flavor that suits you best. Enjoy your meal!
Ingredients: For the marinade: lamb rib - 1 kg fresh mint - 8 leaves coriander seeds - 1 tablespoon lemon juice - 34 tablespoons white pepper - to taste salt - to taste semi-dry red wine - 25 ml garlic - 2 cloves For cooking: green onion - 1 bunch green garlic - 1 bunch garlic - 3 cloves herb butter / regular butter - 50 g semi-dry red wine 50 ml water 100 ml olive oil - 1 teaspoon turmeric (curcuma) - 1 teaspoon lemon juice - 2 tablespoons salt and pepper to taste
