Mild Ethiopian Lamb Stew with Turmeric and Ginger

By AislePrompt Editorial · Published 2026-05-11 · Updated 2026-05-11

A gently spiced lamb stew simmered in turmeric and ginger, delivering tender meat with warm, mellow flavors characteristic of Ethiopian comfort food. This Ethiopian-inspired lamb recipe, ready in about 100 minutes, pairs lamb shoulder, vegetable oil, yellow onion for a weeknight-friendly dinner that comes together with one pan and minimal cleanup. Each serving lands at about 400 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.

Ingredients

• 1.5 lbs, cut into 1-inch cubes lamb shoulder
• 3 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1 large, finely chopped yellow onion
• 2 tbsp, minced fresh ginger
• 4, minced garlic cloves
• 1.5 tsp turmeric powder
• 2 cups water or low sodium broth
• 1.5 tsp salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp, chopped fresh parsley

The Dutch oven we’d braise this in → Best Dutch Ovens for 2026: Top Picks + Buying Guide

Instructions

1. Step 1: Heat 3 tbsp vegetable oil in a large heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat. Add 1.5 lbs cubed lamb shoulder and brown on all sides for about 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally.
2. Step 2: Remove lamb and set aside. In the same pot, add 1 large finely chopped yellow onion and sauté for 5 minutes until softened and golden.
3. Step 3: Stir in 4 minced garlic cloves and 2 tbsp minced fresh ginger; cook for 2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Step 4: Add 1.5 tsp turmeric powder, stirring to coat the onions and aromatics, cooking for 1 minute.
5. Step 5: Return lamb to the pot and pour in 2 cups water or broth. Season with 1.5 tsp salt and 1 tsp black pepper, bring to a boil.
6. Step 6: Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer gently for 1 hour 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until lamb is very tender and stew has thickened.
7. Step 7: Adjust seasoning if needed and garnish with 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley before serving.