Omani Lamb with Apricots
A rich and flavorful Omani stew featuring tender lamb simmered with sweet dried apricots, aromatic spices, and a hint of tomato. This dish balances savory and sweet notes, making it a comforting and exotic meal.
๐ง Ingredients
- 750 g Boneless lamb shoulder(cut into 1-inch cubes)
- 2 tbsp Olive oil
- 1 large Yellow onion(chopped)
- 3 cloves Garlic cloves(minced)
- 2 tsp Ground cumin
- 0.5 tsp Ground coriander
- 0.25 tsp Cayenne pepper
- 0.25 tsp Black pepper(freshly ground, plus more to taste)
- 2 cups Chicken broth(or 16 fl. oz.)
- 1 can Diced tomatoes(14.5 oz.)
- 1 can Chickpeas(8.75 oz., drained and rinsed)
- 0.25 cup Dried apricots(halved)
- 1 Cinnamon stick
- 3 tbsp Fresh flat-leaf parsley(chopped)
- Salt(to taste)
๐จโ๐ณ Instructions
- 1
In a large, heavy pot over medium-high heat, warm the olive oil. Working in 2 batches, add the lamb and cook until browned on all sides, about 6-8 minutes per batch. Remove lamb to a bowl.
- 2
Add the onion and garlic to the pot and sautรฉ until soft, about 5-7 minutes. Add the cumin, coriander, cayenne, and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Cook, stirring constantly, for 2 minutes.
- 3
Add the chicken broth and bring to a simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Add the diced tomatoes, chickpeas, halved dried apricots, and cinnamon stick. Return the lamb to the pot.
- 4
Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover partially and simmer, stirring occasionally, until the lamb is tender and the stew thickens, about 1 hour and 15 minutes.
- 5
Stir in the chopped parsley. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Serve immediately.
๐ก Pro Tips
- โThis aromatic stew is even better the next day, once the spices have had time to really infuse the meat with flavor.
- โServe with a simple green salad dressed with a lemony vinaigrette.
โจ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add other dried fruits like raisins or prunes for added sweetness.
- For a spicier kick, increase the cayenne pepper or add a pinch of red pepper flakes.