Arni Youvetsi (Lamb and Orzo)

May 09, 2023May 9, 20230 12
Arni Youvetsi - Delicious Lamb and Orzo Recipe for Dinner Tonight
in Main

Prep

40 min

Cook

2 hrs

Ready In

2 hrs 40 min

Level

Difficult

Rating

1 Star2 Stars3 Stars4 Stars5 Stars
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Ingredients

5 -6 lbs leg of lamb ( the weight is approximate )
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon oregano
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1 cup red wine
1/2 cup olive oil
2 cups water
2 lbs fresh tomatoes , peeled , seeded and pureed
1 large onion , minced
4 garlic cloves , minced
1/4 - 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon ( depending on preference )
1 lb orzo pasta
freshly-grated parmesan cheese or kefalotiri

Nutrision Information

Servings Per Recipe
8-10
Calories
518
Sugar
7g
Fat
29g
Arni Youvetsi is a traditional Greek dish that has been enjoyed for generations. Made with succulent leg of lamb, this recipe combines tender meat with a tangy tomato sauce and fluffy orzo pasta for a meal that is sure to please the whole family. The flavors of oregano, thyme, and cinnamon add depth and complexity that will have your taste buds singing. While this recipe does take some time to prepare, the end result is well worth the effort - a comforting and satisfying dish that is perfect for a cozy night in.

Instructions

1.Preheat oven to 375 degrees F.
2.Cut the lamb into 2-inch cubes and place in a large bowl.
3.In a separate bowl, mix together the lemon juice, oregano, thyme, red wine, and olive oil.
4.Pour mixture over lamb and let marinate for at least 30 minutes.
5.In a large skillet, sauté garlic and onions until soft and fragrant.
6.Add the pureed tomatoes and cinnamon and sauté until the sauce thickens, around 10 minutes.
7.Add water and continue to simmer for another 5 minutes.
8.In a large pot, cook the orzo pasta according to the package instructions and drain.
9.Arrange the lamb in a single layer in a baking dish and pour the tomato sauce over the top.
10.Bake in the oven for 1 1/2 - 2 hours, or until the lamb is tender.
11.Serve over the cooked orzo and sprinkle with freshly grated parmesan cheese or kefalotiri.

PROS

This dish is packed with rich and savory flavor, combining tender lamb with tangy tomato sauce.

Orzo pasta is the perfect accompaniment, providing a light and fluffy texture that contrasts well with the hearty lamb.

Bonus: Leftovers taste even better the next day!

CONS

This recipe does require some planning ahead, as the lamb needs to marinate for at least 30 minutes and the dish takes a long time to bake in the oven.

If you’re short on time, consider using a pressure cooker or slow cooker instead.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Lamb is rich in protein, iron, and zinc, which are all essential nutrients for a healthy diet. The tomato sauce in this recipe is also a good source of vitamins A and C, as well as lycopene – an antioxidant that has been linked to reducing the risk of heart disease and cancer.
While orzo pasta is not particularly nutrient-dense, it is a good source of complex carbohydrates that provide sustained energy.

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