Elbasan-Inspired Rustic Lamb Stew with Root Vegetables

By , Test Kitchen Director · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

A hearty lamb stew simmered with aromatic herbs and tender root vegetables, inspired by the tranquil nature of Elbasan. This mediterranean-inspired lamb ready in about 120 minutes pairs cut into 1-inch cubes lamb shoulder, salt, black pepper for a weeknight-friendly dinner that comes together with one pan and minimal cleanup. Each serving lands at about 420 calories and feeds 4, so it slots cleanly into a weekly meal plan and pairs well with a quick salad or grain on the side. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Prep: 20 min Cook: 100 min Serves 4 Mediterranean cuisine 420 cal/serving
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Ingredients

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Instructions

  1. Step 1: Season 1 lb lamb shoulder cubes with 1 tsp salt and 1/2 tsp black pepper.
  2. Step 2: Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a heavy pot over medium-high heat. Brown the lamb cubes in batches for 5 minutes each until well caramelized; transfer to a plate.
  3. Step 3: In the same pot, add 1 diced medium yellow onion, 2 sliced carrots, and 1 sliced parsnip. Sauté over medium heat for 6-7 minutes until softened and fragrant.
  4. Step 4: Stir in 4 minced garlic cloves and 2 tbsp tomato paste, cooking for 2 minutes until deepened in color.
  5. Step 5: Return the lamb to the pot, sprinkle 1 tsp dried thyme and 1 tsp dried rosemary, add 2 bay leaves, then pour in 3 cups beef broth.
  6. Step 6: Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer covered for 1 hour 30 minutes until lamb is tender and flavors meld.
  7. Step 7: Remove bay leaves, adjust seasoning with salt and pepper, and garnish with 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley before serving.

Frequently asked questions

How long does Elbasan-Inspired Rustic Lamb Stew with Root Vegetables take to make?

Total time is about 120 minutes (20 min prep + 100 min cook). Most home cooks find this fits comfortably into a weeknight; double the batch on Sunday for two dinners.

How do I store leftover Elbasan-Inspired Rustic Lamb Stew with Root Vegetables?

Cool to room temperature within 2 hours, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat covered in a 350°F oven for 10-12 minutes, or microwave at 70% power in 60-second bursts to keep salt from drying out.

Can I substitute ingredients in Elbasan-Inspired Rustic Lamb Stew with Root Vegetables?

Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.

How do I scale Elbasan-Inspired Rustic Lamb Stew with Root Vegetables for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 4 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 4). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.

What goes well with Elbasan-Inspired Rustic Lamb Stew with Root Vegetables?

Mediterranean lamb like this pair well with a simple grain (rice, couscous, or crusty bread), a quick salad with acid (lemon vinaigrette, pickled onions), and a pan sauce or yogurt-based dip. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" to get specific side suggestions.

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