Slow-Simmered Berbere Lamb Stew

By AislePrompt Editorial · Published 2026-05-12 · Updated 2026-05-12

A rich Ethiopian-inspired lamb stew slow-cooked with traditional berbere spice blend and tomatoes for deep, warming flavors. This Ethiopian-inspired lamb recipe, ready in about 140 minutes, pairs lamb shoulder, cut into 1-inch cubes, berbere spice blend, onion, finely chopped for a weeknight-friendly dinner that comes together with one pan and minimal cleanup. Each serving lands at about 420 calories and feeds 6, 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

• 2 lbs lamb shoulder, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 3 tbsp berbere spice blend
• 1 large (about 8 oz) onion, finely chopped
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tbsp ginger, grated
• 14 oz diced tomatoes (canned)
• 2 cups water
• 3 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)

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 pot over medium heat. Add 1 large finely chopped onion and sauté for 8 minutes until translucent and fragrant.
2. Step 2: Add 4 minced garlic cloves and 1 tbsp grated ginger, cooking for 2 minutes more until aromatic.
3. Step 3: Stir in 3 tbsp berbere spice blend and cook for 1 minute to bloom the spices.
4. Step 4: Add 2 lbs lamb shoulder cubes, seasoning with 1 1/2 tsp salt and 1/2 tsp black pepper. Brown the lamb on all sides for 5-7 minutes.
5. Step 5: Pour in 14 oz diced tomatoes and 2 cups water, stirring to combine. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and let cook gently for 2 hours until lamb is tender and the sauce thickens.
6. Step 6: Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Garnish with 2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro before serving.