Mongolian Lamb and Millet Stew
A hearty and nourishing stew featuring tender lamb, earthy millet, and root vegetables, simmered in a savory broth. This dish reflects the nomadic heritage of Mongolia, utilizing staple ingredients that are both filling and sustaining.

๐ง Ingredients
- 700 g Lamb shoulder, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 cup Millet
- 2 tbsp Vegetable oil
- 2 medium Onions, chopped
- 3 medium Carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 medium Potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 4 cloves Garlic, minced
- 6 cups Beef or lamb broth
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black pepper
- 1 Bay leaf
- 2 tbsp Fresh dill, chopped (for garnish)
๐จโ๐ณ Instructions
- 1
Rinse the millet under cold water until the water runs clear. Set aside.
๐ก Tip: Rinsing removes any dust or bitterness from the millet. - 2
Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown the lamb cubes in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pot. Remove lamb and set aside.
๐ก Tip: Browning the lamb adds depth of flavor to the stew. - 3
Add the chopped onions to the pot and sautรฉ until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add the diced carrots and cook for another 5 minutes.
๐ก Tip: Sautรฉing the aromatics before adding liquid builds a flavorful base. - 4
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
๐ก Tip: Be careful not to burn the garlic. - 5
Return the browned lamb to the pot. Add the beef or lamb broth, salt, pepper, and bay leaf. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 1 hour.
๐ก Tip: Simmering allows the lamb to become tender. - 6
Add the cubed potatoes and rinsed millet to the pot. Stir well, cover, and continue to simmer for another 30 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the millet is cooked through and has absorbed most of the liquid.
๐ก Tip: Millet cooks relatively quickly, so add it in the last part of the cooking time. - 7
Remove the bay leaf. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
๐ก Tip: Seasoning is crucial for bringing out the flavors of the ingredients. - 8
Ladle the stew into bowls and garnish with fresh chopped dill before serving.
๐ก Tip: Fresh dill adds a bright, herbaceous note that complements the richness of the lamb.
๐ก Pro Tips
- โFor a richer flavor, you can use lamb broth instead of beef broth.
- โIf you prefer a thicker stew, you can mash some of the cooked potatoes against the side of the pot before serving.
- โThis stew can be made ahead of time and reheated; the flavors often meld and improve overnight.
โจ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add other root vegetables like parsnips or turnips along with the carrots and potatoes.
- For a touch of spice, add a pinch of red pepper flakes with the garlic.
- A tablespoon of tomato paste added with the onions can provide a deeper, more complex flavor.