Save A hearty one-pot dish featuring tender lamb, aromatic spices, smoky flavors, and orzo pasta, perfect for a comforting family meal with a Mediterranean flair.
This dish instantly became a family favorite when I first cooked it, thanks to its deep flavors and easy preparation.
Ingredients
- Meats: 500 g (1 lb) boneless lamb shoulder or leg, cut into 2.5 cm (1 inch) cubes, 1 tbsp smoked paprika
- Vegetables: 1 medium red onion finely chopped, 2 garlic cloves minced, 1 red bell pepper diced, 1 medium zucchini diced, 400 g (14 oz) canned diced tomatoes, 100 g (3.5 oz) baby spinach
- Spices & Seasonings: 1 tsp ground cumin, 1 tsp dried oregano, ½ tsp ground cinnamon, ¼ tsp dried chili flakes (optional), salt and black pepper to taste
- Grains & Liquids: 200 g (1 cup) orzo pasta, 750 ml (3 cups) low sodium chicken or vegetable stock, 1 tbsp olive oil
- Garnishes: 50 g (⅓ cup) crumbled feta cheese, fresh parsley chopped, lemon wedges
Instructions
- Step 1:
- In a large heavy pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium high heat. Toss the lamb cubes with smoked paprika, salt, and pepper, then add to the pot. Sear for 3 4 minutes until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.
- Step 2:
- Reduce heat to medium. Add onion and cook for 2 3 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic, bell pepper, and zucchini. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Step 3:
- Add cumin, oregano, cinnamon, and chili flakes (if using). Cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
- Step 4:
- Return the lamb to the pot. Add the canned tomatoes and stock. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 20 minutes.
- Step 5:
- Stir in the orzo and simmer for 10 12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Step 6:
- Fold in spinach and cook for 2 minutes until wilted. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Step 7:
- Serve hot, garnished with crumbled feta, chopped parsley, and lemon wedges.
Save This recipe brings everyone together around the table for a warm and satisfying family dinner.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with a crisp Greek salad and crusty bread for a complete Mediterranean meal.
Allergen Tips
Contains wheat and milk. Substitute orzo with gluten free pasta and feta with plant based cheese for dietary needs.
Wine Pairing
A medium bodied red wine such as Grenache or Merlot complements the smoky flavors perfectly.
Save Enjoy this flavorful and hearty meal perfect for any weeknight or special occasion.
Recipe FAQs
- → What cut of lamb works best?
Boneless lamb shoulder or leg cubes are ideal for this dish as they become tender during simmering and absorb smoky spices well.
- → Can I substitute the orzo pasta?
Yes, gluten-free pasta or rice can replace orzo for gluten-intolerant diets, maintaining the dish's texture and absorbency.
- → How can I enhance the smoky flavor?
Adding a pinch of smoked salt or a few drops of liquid smoke intensifies the smoky aroma without overpowering the other ingredients.
- → Is this dish suitable for a vegetarian diet?
Replacing lamb with chickpeas or other plant proteins makes it vegetarian-friendly while keeping the hearty texture.
- → What sides pair well with this meal?
A crisp Greek salad and crusty bread complement the flavors and balance the richness of the lamb and orzo.
- → How is the spice level adjusted?
Optional chili flakes can be added or omitted according to preference, allowing control over the dish’s heat.