Lamb Stew
Lamb stew features tender, flavorful lamb shanks simmered with vegetables and seasoned with paprika, creating a hearty and comforting dish. Its rich flavors and robust aroma make it perfect for family dinners or special occasions, served best with rice or crusty bread.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Remove as much fat as possible from the lamb shanks and wash thoroughly.
- Braise the meat in a large kettle, adding 1/2 cup water, chopped onion, and chopped green pepper. Cook until the onion and green pepper are transparent.
- Continue braising until the meat sizzles but is not burned.
- Add 2 tablespoons of sweet paprika and blend thoroughly.
- Add tomato sauce, peeled tomatoes, and enough boiling water to cover the mixture. Let simmer for 2 hours.
- Add green beans cut into 1-inch pieces and simmer for another 30 minutes.
- Serve hot with rice.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider marinating the lamb in spices overnight. If you don't have sweet paprika, smoked paprika can add a unique twist. You can also substitute green beans with asparagus or peas if preferred. Ensure to trim the beans for even cooking. This dish is also great for slow cooking, which allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the lamb stew hot over a bed of fluffy rice for a comforting meal. It pairs beautifully with Mediterranean recipes like Stuffed Grape Leaves or a fresh green salad. For added flavor, garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro. A side of crusty bread can help soak up the delicious sauce.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of water if needed to prevent sticking. This dish also freezes well, allowing you to enjoy it later. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lamb Stew contains roughly 83 calories, with 2g protein, 16g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (139% of the Daily Value) and vitamin A (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and dietary fiber. It also contributes 3g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different cut of lamb for this stew?
Yes, you can use lamb shoulder or leg, which are also great options for stews. Just adjust the cooking time as these cuts might require less time than shanks. Make sure to remove excess fat for a leaner dish.
How do I ensure the lamb is tender?
Braising the lamb slowly with moisture is key to achieving tenderness. Make sure to simmer it gently for the full 2 hours, allowing the connective tissues to break down properly. If using a pressure cooker, the time can be reduced significantly.
Can I add more vegetables to the stew?
Absolutely! This stew is versatile; feel free to add carrots, potatoes, or bell peppers for added flavor and nutrition. Just be sure to adjust the cooking times accordingly, as different vegetables may require varying amounts of time to become tender.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).