Kosovar Lamb and Rice Casserole
Baked
A savory and satisfying baked casserole featuring tender lamb, fluffy rice, and aromatic spices, all baked together until golden and delicious. This dish is a staple in Kosovar cuisine, offering a delightful blend of textures and flavors.
🧂 Ingredients
- 700 g Lamb shoulder, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 3 tbsp Olive oil
- 2 Large onions, finely chopped
- 4 Garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp Ground cumin
- 1 tsp Ground coriander
- 1 tsp Sweet paprika
- 300 g Long-grain rice
- 700 ml Lamb or vegetable broth
- to taste Salt and freshly ground black pepper
- 3 tbsp Fresh dill, chopped (for garnish)
- optional Plain yogurt or sour cream (for serving)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F). Season the lamb cubes generously with salt and pepper.
💡 Tip: Ensuring the oven is preheated helps the casserole cook evenly. - 2
Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown the lamb cubes on all sides in batches. Remove the lamb and set aside.
💡 Tip: Browning the lamb develops a rich flavor base. - 3
Add the chopped onions to the skillet and cook until softened and lightly golden, about 8-10 minutes. Add the minced garlic, cumin, coriander, and paprika, and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
💡 Tip: Cooking the onions slowly caramelizes them, adding sweetness. - 4
Stir in the rice and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring to coat the grains with the onion and spice mixture.
💡 Tip: Toasting the rice slightly before adding liquid helps it cook more evenly. - 5
Return the browned lamb to the skillet. Pour in the lamb or vegetable broth. Bring to a simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.
💡 Tip: Ensure the liquid covers the rice and lamb; add a little more broth or water if needed. - 6
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cover the skillet tightly with a lid or aluminum foil. Transfer to the preheated oven and bake for 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the lamb is tender and the rice is cooked through.
💡 Tip: Baking covered ensures the rice cooks in the liquid and the lamb becomes tender. - 7
Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh chopped dill. Serve hot, optionally with a side of plain yogurt or sour cream.
💡 Tip: Resting allows the flavors to meld and the casserole to set slightly.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For a richer flavor, you can marinate the lamb in olive oil, garlic, and spices for at least 30 minutes before browning.
- ✓If you don't have an oven-safe skillet, transfer the mixture to a baking dish before covering and baking.
- ✓Adjust the amount of spices according to your preference.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add chopped vegetables like carrots, peas, or bell peppers along with the rice for a more complete meal.
- For a cheesy topping, sprinkle grated cheese over the casserole during the last 15 minutes of baking.
- Use a mix of lamb and beef for a different flavor profile.