Zarb Lamb and Vegetables
A traditional Bedouin dish where lamb and seasonal vegetables are slow-cooked in an underground oven (Zarb) using hot coals, imparting a unique smoky flavor. This version focuses on tender lamb shoulder and root vegetables.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1.5 kg Lamb shoulder(bone-in, cut into large chunks)
- 1 kg Potatoes(peeled and quartered)
- 500 g Carrots(peeled and cut into large chunks)
- 3 large Onions(peeled and quartered)
- 10 whole Garlic cloves(peeled)
- 100 ml Olive oil
- 2 tbsp Ground cumin
- 1 tbsp Ground coriander
- 1 tsp Turmeric
- 5 whole Cardamom pods
- 3 dried Bay leaves
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black pepper
- 200 ml Water(for steaming)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Preheat the Zarb pit by building a large fire with wood or charcoal. Let it burn down to hot coals.
💡 Tip: Ensure the pit is large enough to accommodate the cooking vessel and coals. - 2
In a large bowl, toss the lamb chunks with olive oil, cumin, coriander, turmeric, salt, and pepper. Marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- 3
Layer the bottom of a large, heatproof pot or a heavy-duty foil packet with quartered onions and whole garlic cloves. Place the marinated lamb on top.
- 4
Arrange the potatoes, carrots, cardamom pods, and bay leaves around and on top of the lamb.
- 5
Add 200ml of water to the pot (if using). Seal the pot tightly with its lid, or if using foil, create a very secure, multi-layered packet to prevent steam escape.
💡 Tip: A good seal is crucial for trapping moisture and flavor. - 6
Carefully clear the hot coals in the Zarb pit to create a level surface. Place the sealed pot or foil packet onto the coals.
💡 Tip: Use heat-resistant gloves and tools for safety. - 7
Cover the pot/packet with a layer of hot coals and then cover the entire pit with a large tarp or metal sheet, sealing the edges with sand or soil to trap the heat and smoke.
💡 Tip: This creates an oven-like environment. - 8
Cook for 3 to 4 hours, or until the lamb is fork-tender and the vegetables are fully cooked.
💡 Tip: Avoid opening the pit during cooking to maintain temperature. - 9
Carefully uncover the Zarb pit and remove the cooking vessel. Let it rest for 10 minutes before opening.
- 10
Serve the tender lamb and vegetables directly from the pot or packet, often with rice or flatbread.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓The success of Zarb relies heavily on maintaining consistent heat. Ensure a good bed of coals.
- ✓Use seasonal root vegetables that can withstand long cooking times.
- ✓The smoky flavor is integral; ensure the pit is well-sealed.
- ✓If an underground pit is not feasible, a Dutch oven in a very hot oven with wood chips can approximate the smoky flavor.
🔄 Variations
- Add whole eggplants or cauliflower for a more robust vegetable selection.
- Incorporate dried fruits like apricots or prunes for a touch of sweetness.
- Use different cuts of lamb, such as leg or shank, adjusting cooking time accordingly.