Get ready to experience the rich and aromatic flavors of Somali cuisine with this delicious and easy Braised Lamb recipe. Made with tender lamb shoulder, onions, garlic, and a blend of spices, including USimplySeason Xawaash and cinnamon, this dish is a perfect example of the bold and complex flavors that make Somali cuisine so unique. The lamb is simmered low and slow until it becomes fork-tender and infused with the rich, warming flavors of the Xawaash spice blend.
Ingredients:
- 2 Tbsp oil (canola or extra virgin olive oil)
- 1 large Onion, sliced
- 4 Garlic cloves, minced
- 1 Tbsp USimplySeason Xawaash
- 1 tsp Cinnamon, ground
- 1 lb Lamb shoulder, cubed (or meat of choice)
- 1 tsp salt to taste
- 1/2 tsp Black pepper, ground
- 1 cup water
Instructions:
- Using a Dutch oven or large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil (canola or extra virgin olive oil).
- Add the sliced onion and minced garlic to the pot and stir well. Cook for 3-5 minutes or until the onion is translucent.
- Add the cubed lamb shoulder (meat of your choice) to the pot and stir well.
- Add 1 Tbsp USimplySeason Xawaash, 1 tsp salt, and 1 tsp ground cinnamon to the pot and stir to combine.
- Lower the heat to medium-low and cover the pot. Let the mixture simmer for 1 hour, stirring occasionally.
- Add 1 cup of water to the pot if necessary to prevent the mixture from drying.
- Stir in 1/2 tsp ground black pepper and continue cooking until the lamb is fork-tender and has browned.
- Remove the pot from the heat and serve the braised lamb over cooked basmati or jasmine rice.
Note: USimplySeason Xawaash adds a unique and complex flavor to this braised lamb recipe, creating a truly authentic taste of Somalia. The addition of ground cinnamon adds an extra layer of warmth and spice to the dish. Try this recipe for a delicious and comforting meal that's perfect for colder weather.
To complete the meal, consider serving this Braised Lamb with a selection of classic Somali side dishes:
- Somali-style salad: A simple salad of sliced cucumbers, tomatoes, onions, and cilantro dressed with lemon juice and olive oil would provide a fresh and bright contrast to the richness of the lamb.
- Somali-style rice: A side of Somali-style rice flavored with cardamom, cumin, and cloves, would be a natural fit for this braised lamb recipe.
- Roasted vegetables: Roasted vegetables like carrots, parsnips, or sweet potatoes would provide a sweet and savory complement to the lamb.
- Naan bread: Warm naan bread would be the perfect accompaniment to this flavorful lamb dish, allowing you to scoop up every last bit of the rich and aromatic sauce.
- Lentil soup: A bowl of lentil soup flavored with USimplySeason Xawaash would be a delicious and warming side dish to pair with this hearty and comforting braised lamb recipe.
