Ingredients

2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
1 teaspoon cumin seeds
1 onion , thinly sliced
4 cloves garlic , crushed
1 sweet potato , peeled and diced
2 lamb shanks
1 can chopped canned tomatoes
1 1/4 cups chopped dried apricots
1 1/2 teaspoons harissa
salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons slivered almonds
1 cup quick-cooking couscous
2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
Moroccan-style lamb shanks with apricots is a traditional North African dish that is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in. The combination of savory, spiced lamb and sweet apricots is irresistible. The dish is typically served over couscous, which makes it a complete meal that is both satisfying and delicious. The spices used in this recipe – cumin, harissa, and garlic – are common in Moroccan cuisine and give the lamb a depth of flavor that is sure to impress. Serve this dish with a glass of red wine and good company for a truly memorable meal.

Instructions

1.Preheat oven to 325°F.
2.In a large Dutch oven or oven-safe pot with a lid, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and cook for 1 minute or until fragrant.
3.Add sliced onion and garlic to the pot. Cook for 3-4 minutes, or until onion is translucent and garlic is fragrant.
4.Add diced sweet potato and lamb shanks to the pot. Cook for 5 minutes or until lamb shanks are browned on all sides.
5.Add chopped canned tomatoes, chopped dried apricots, harissa, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir to combine.
6.Bring to a simmer, then cover and transfer to the oven. Bake for 2-3 hours or until lamb shanks are tender and falling off the bone.
7.While the lamb is cooking, prepare the couscous according to package instructions.
8.Once the lamb is done, remove it from the pot and shred the meat with two forks. Return the shredded meat to the pot and stir to combine.
9.Serve the lamb and apricot mixture over a bed of couscous. Garnish with slivered almonds.

PROS

This Moroccan-style lamb shank recipe is full of flavor and easy to make.
The addition of sweet apricots and harissa give it a unique twist.

It’s a warming and comforting meal that is perfect for cooler months and special occasions.

CONS

Lamb shanks can be expensive, which may make this dish less budget-friendly.

The ingredient list is quite long, which may require a trip to the grocery store.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Lamb is an excellent source of protein and is rich in iron, zinc, and vitamin B12.
Sweet potatoes are high in fiber, vitamins A and C, and potassium.
Apricots are a great source of beta carotene and contain fiber and vitamin C.

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