RecipesSyriaSyrian Bamia with Lamb

Syrian Bamia with Lamb

A hearty and flavorful stew made with tender lamb, okra, and a rich tomato-based sauce, often served with rice.

Prep Time25 minutes
Cook Time1 hour 30 minutes
Total Time1 hour 55 minutes
Servings6
DifficultyMedium
Syrian Bamia with Lamb - Syria traditional dish

🧂 Ingredients

  • 1 kg Lamb shoulder(cut into 2-inch cubes)
  • 750 g Okra(fresh or frozen, trimmed)
  • 2 large Onions(chopped)
  • 6 cloves Garlic(minced)
  • 800 g Crushed tomatoes
  • 2 tbsp Tomato paste
  • 2 tbsp Coriander(dried)
  • 1 tsp Cumin
  • 0.5 tsp Cinnamon
  • 0.5 tsp Allspice
  • 3 tbsp Vegetable oil
  • 2 cups Water or lamb broth
  • Salt(to taste)
  • Black pepper(to taste)

👨‍🍳 Instructions

  1. 1

    Heat vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown the lamb cubes in batches, then set aside.

  2. 2

    Add chopped onions to the pot and sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

  3. 3

    Stir in the dried coriander, cumin, cinnamon, and allspice. Cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.

  4. 4

    Add the crushed tomatoes and tomato paste. Stir well to combine.

  5. 5

    Return the browned lamb to the pot. Add water or lamb broth, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 1 hour, or until lamb is tender.

  6. 6

    Add the trimmed okra to the pot. Stir gently to combine. Cover and continue to cook for another 20-30 minutes, or until okra is tender and the sauce has thickened.

  7. 7

    Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Serve hot, typically with rice.

💡 Pro Tips

  • If using fresh okra, you can lightly sauté it before adding to the stew to reduce sliminess.
  • Ensure the lamb is tender before adding the okra, as okra cooks relatively quickly.
  • A pinch of sugar can balance the acidity of the tomatoes.

🔄 Variations

  • Add a diced bell pepper along with the onions for extra flavor and color.
  • For a spicier version, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.

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