Save A hearty one-pot dish featuring tender lamb, aromatic spices, smoky flavors, and orzo pasta, perfect for a comforting family meal with a Mediterranean flair.
I first served this to my family on a chilly evening, and the combination of smoky lamb and orzo quickly became a favorite comfort food.
Ingredients
- Meats: 500 g (1 lb) boneless lamb shoulder or leg cut into 2.5 cm (1-inch) cubes, 1 tbsp smoked paprika
- Vegetables: 1 medium red onion finely chopped, 2 garlic cloves minced, 1 red bell pepper diced, 1 medium zucchini diced, 400 g (14 oz) canned diced tomatoes, 100 g (3.5 oz) baby spinach
- Spices & Seasonings: 1 tsp ground cumin, 1 tsp dried oregano, ½ tsp ground cinnamon, ¼ tsp dried chili flakes (optional), Salt and black pepper to taste
- Grains & Liquids: 200 g (1 cup) orzo pasta, 750 ml (3 cups) low-sodium chicken or vegetable stock, 1 tbsp olive oil
- Garnishes: 50 g (⅓ cup) crumbled feta cheese, Fresh parsley chopped, Lemon wedges
Instructions
- Step 1:
- In a large heavy pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Toss the lamb cubes with smoked paprika, salt, and pepper, then add to the pot. Sear for 34 minutes until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.
- Step 2:
- Reduce heat to medium. Add onion and cook for 23 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic, bell pepper, and zucchini. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Step 3:
- Add cumin, oregano, cinnamon, and chili flakes (if using). Cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
- Step 4:
- Return the lamb to the pot. Add the canned tomatoes and stock. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 20 minutes.
- Step 5:
- Stir in the orzo and simmer for 1012 minutes, stirring occasionally, until orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Step 6:
- Fold in spinach and cook for 2 minutes until wilted. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Step 7:
- Serve hot, garnished with crumbled feta, chopped parsley, and lemon wedges.
Save This dish always brings my family together around the table especially on cool evenings when its perfect for sharing and comfort.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with a crisp Greek salad and crusty bread to complement the smoky and savory flavors.
Allergen Information
Contains wheat (orzo) and milk (feta cheese). Check stock and feta for hidden allergens. For gluten-free use gluten-free pasta or rice; for dairy-free omit feta or use a plant-based alternative.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: Calories 520, Total Fat 17 g, Carbohydrates 52 g, Protein 35 g.
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Enjoy this rich and smoky lamb supper with your loved ones for a truly memorable meal.