Cumin-Spiced Lamb and Date Stew

A comforting stew with tender lamb, sweet dates, and warm spices simmered to perfection.

Cuisine: Middle Eastern

Category: Soups

Prep: 20 minutes. Cook: 90 minutes.

Serves 4.

Ingredients

• 1.5 pounds lamb shoulder
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion
• 3 cloves garlic
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 cup chicken stock
• 1/2 cup water
• 1/2 cup pitted dates
• 1/4 cup tomato paste
• 1 bay leaf

Instructions

1. Step 1: Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Season 1.5 pounds lamb shoulder cubes with salt and pepper, then brown on all sides for 5 minutes total.
2. Step 2: Add 1 large finely chopped onion and 3 minced garlic cloves, cooking for 3 minutes until softened.
3. Step 3: Stir in 2 teaspoons ground cumin, 1 teaspoon ground coriander, and 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Step 4: Add 1/4 cup tomato paste and cook for 2 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
5. Step 5: Pour in 1 cup chicken stock and 1/2 cup water, scraping the pot bottom to release browned bits.
6. Step 6: Add 1/2 cup chopped pitted dates and 1 bay leaf, bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low.
7. Step 7: Cover and simmer for 1 hour 30 minutes until lamb is fork-tender, stirring occasionally.
8. Step 8: Discard bay leaf, adjust seasoning with salt and pepper, and serve hot.