Bosanski Lonac sa Ovčetinom
Bosnian Lamb Pot
A hearty and flavorful slow-cooked stew featuring tender lamb, a medley of root vegetables, and aromatic spices, traditionally prepared in a clay pot. This dish showcases the rich culinary heritage of Bosnia and Herzegovina, emphasizing slow cooking and the use of fresh, seasonal ingredients.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1 kg Lamb shoulder(cut into 2-inch chunks)
- 2 large Onions(chopped)
- 3 medium Carrots(peeled and cut into chunks)
- 2 medium Parsnips(peeled and cut into chunks)
- 4 medium Potatoes(peeled and cut into chunks)
- 2 stalks Celery stalks(chopped)
- 4 cloves Garlic cloves(minced)
- 500 ml Beef or lamb broth
- 2 tbsp Tomato paste
- 2 leaves Bay leaves
- 1 tsp Dried thyme
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black pepper
- 2 tbsp Olive oil
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Preheat oven to 160°C (320°F).
💡 Tip: Ensure oven is fully preheated before placing the pot inside. - 2
Heat olive oil in a large, oven-safe pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown the lamb chunks on all sides. Remove lamb and set aside.
- 3
Add chopped onions to the pot and sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
💡 Tip: Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. - 4
Stir in minced garlic and tomato paste, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
- 5
Return the lamb to the pot. Add carrots, parsnips, potatoes, and celery. Stir to combine.
- 6
Pour in the broth, add bay leaves and thyme. Season generously with salt and pepper.
💡 Tip: The liquid should come about halfway up the ingredients. - 7
Bring the mixture to a simmer on the stovetop, then cover the pot tightly with a lid.
- 8
Transfer the pot to the preheated oven and cook for at least 3 hours, or until the lamb is very tender and falling apart.
💡 Tip: Check periodically and add more broth if it seems too dry. - 9
Remove bay leaves before serving. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For an authentic touch, use a traditional clay pot (lonac) if available.
- ✓Don't rush the cooking process; slow and low heat is key to tender lamb.
- ✓Feel free to add other root vegetables like turnips or rutabaga.
- ✓A splash of red wine can be added with the broth for extra depth of flavor.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Substitute beef or veal for lamb.
- Add a handful of dried prunes or apricots in the last hour of cooking for a touch of sweetness.
- Incorporate a pinch of paprika for a subtle smoky flavor.