Omani Shuwa
Shuwa is a traditional Omani delicacy, typically made with lamb or goat marinated in a rich blend of spices, then slow-cooked for hours, traditionally in an underground oven. The meat is wrapped in banana leaves, imparting a unique flavor and ensuring it remains incredibly tender and moist.
๐ง Ingredients
- 1.5 kg Lamb shoulder(bone-in, with several incisions made)
- 1 head Garlic(peeled and roughly chopped)
- 0.5 tbsp Sea salt
- 0.5 tbsp Ground cumin
- 0.5 tbsp Ground coriander
- 0.5 tbsp Sweet smoked paprika
- 0.5 tbsp Freshly ground black pepper
- 0.25 tbsp Turmeric
- 1 pinch Hot smoked paprika
- 0.5 of Lemon juice
- 1.75 fl oz Olive oil
- 2 large Banana leaves(or parchment paper, enough to wrap the lamb)
- 0.5 cup Water(for pressure cooker)
๐จโ๐ณ Instructions
- 1
In a mortar and pestle, crush the garlic with sea salt to form a smooth paste.
- 2
Add all the dry spices, lemon juice, and olive oil to the garlic paste. Mix well to form a marinade.
- 3
Rub the spice paste all over the lamb, ensuring it's thoroughly covered and worked into the incisions.
- 4
Prepare the banana leaves by wiping them clean. Lay them flat and place the marinated lamb in the center. Wrap the lamb tightly in the leaves to create an airtight parcel. Tie with kitchen string if necessary.
- 5
Place the wrapped lamb in a pressure cooker with 1/2 cup of water. Cook on the highest temperature and pressure setting for 2-3 hours, or until the lamb is very tender. (Alternatively, bake in a preheated oven at 140ยฐC/285ยฐF for 4-8 hours, or until tender).
- 6
Once cooked, carefully unwrap the lamb. The meat should be falling off the bone.
- 7
Serve the Shuwa hot, often accompanied by fragrant basmati rice.
๐ก Pro Tips
- โTraditionally, Shuwa is cooked in an underground oven for 1-2 days, but a pressure cooker or slow oven provides a more accessible method.
- โEnsure the banana leaves are completely sealed to keep the moisture in.
- โThe incisions in the lamb are crucial for allowing the marinade to penetrate deeply.
โจ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Goat can be used instead of lamb.
- If banana leaves are unavailable, parchment paper and then aluminum foil can be used for wrapping.