Serbian Lamb and Vegetable Stew
Dagara
Dagara is a hearty and flavorful Serbian stew featuring tender lamb and a medley of vegetables, slow-cooked to perfection. It's a comforting one-pot meal often prepared in a clay pot or Dutch oven, showcasing the rich culinary traditions of the region.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1 kg Lamb shoulder or ribs(cut into chunks)
- 500 g Beef or veal cutlets(optional, cut into chunks)
- 2 large Onions(quartered)
- 6 whole Garlic cloves(peeled)
- 4 large Potatoes(peeled and quartered)
- 500 g Green beans(trimmed)
- 2 medium Bell peppers(seeded and chopped (red or yellow))
- 3 medium Carrots(chopped)
- 2 tbsp Vegeta or stock powder
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black pepper
- for searing Oil
- 30 g Butter(optional, for topping)
- 2 cups Water or broth(optional)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Season the lamb (and beef/veal if using) generously with salt and pepper.
💡 Tip: Ensure the meat is well-seasoned before searing. - 2
Heat a generous amount of oil in a large frying pan over high heat. Sear the meat in batches until browned on all sides, about 2-4 minutes per side. Remove the meat from the pan and set aside.
- 3
If using a clay pot or Dutch oven, pour some of the rendered fat from the pan into it. Otherwise, use a baking pan. Layer the ingredients in the pot/pan in the following order: onion, garlic, seared meat, bell peppers, potatoes, and carrots. Sprinkle with Vegeta or stock powder.
💡 Tip: Layering ensures even cooking and flavor distribution. - 4
Add the green beans on top of the other vegetables. If desired, dot with butter and add optional water or broth.
💡 Tip: Butter adds richness, and liquid helps create a stew. - 5
Cover the pot/pan tightly with a lid or foil. Bake for 1 hour and 15 minutes.
- 6
Reduce the oven temperature to 390°F (200°C) and bake for an additional 30-45 minutes, or until the meat is tender and the vegetables are cooked through.
💡 Tip: Check for tenderness of meat and vegetables. - 7
Let the stew rest for 10-15 minutes before serving. Serve hot.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Using a clay pot or Dutch oven will enhance the slow-cooking process and flavor.
- ✓Don't overcrowd the pan when searing the meat; do it in batches if necessary.
- ✓Adjust the amount of Vegeta or stock powder to your taste.
- ✓This stew can be made ahead of time and reheated, as the flavors often meld and improve.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add other root vegetables like parsnips or celery root.
- Incorporate a bay leaf or two for added aroma.
- A splash of red wine can be added during the layering stage for extra depth of flavor.