Ingredients

8 ounces pitted dried cherries ( Trader Joe 's )
1/2 cup olive oil
1/2 cup unsalted butter
4 lbs lamb shoulder , trimmed of fat , cut into 1 1/2-inch cubes
kosher salt & freshly ground black pepper
2 yellow onions , finely chopped
2 teaspoons toasted ground coriander
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger
1 pinch saffron thread
2 teaspoons preserved lemons , chopped ( or the zest of 2 lemons , finely chopped )
3 -4 cups rich dark stock ( beef , lamb or roasted chicken )
2 tablespoons honey
3 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds
This Moroccan-inspired dish is a warm and comforting meal that is perfect for fall and winter months. The blend of spices, such as toasted coriander, cinnamon, and ginger, give this dish a unique depth of flavor that will tantalize your taste buds. The combination of sweet and tangy dried cherries and preserved lemons complement the rich lamb meat for a unique and unforgettable taste experience. This dish is perfect for entertaining, or as a comforting meal for your family and friends. Serve it with couscous, rice, or bread to fully enjoy its rich and wholesome flavor.

Instructions

1.Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2.Soak the dried cherries in hot water for 15 to 20 minutes.
3.In a large Dutch oven or oven-safe casserole, heat the olive oil and butter over medium-high heat until the butter is melted.
4.Season the lamb with salt and pepper, then add to the pot.
5.Sear the lamb for 2 to 3 minutes on each side, or until it has a crispy outer layer.
6.Add the chopped onions and sauté for a few minutes, until softened.
7.Add the coriander, cinnamon, ginger, saffron, and preserved lemons to the pot, and mix well to combine.
8.Drain the cherries and add them to the pot, along with the honey and toasted sesame seeds.
9.Pour enough stock to cover the ingredients, then cover the pot and place it in the oven.
10.Bake for 3 hours, or until the lamb is tender and falls apart when pierced with a fork.
11.Serve with your choice of accompaniments, such as couscous, rice, or bread.

PROS

This dish is bursting with flavor from the blend of spices and the sweet and tangy flavor of dried cherries and preserved lemons.

The lamb is incredibly tender and melts in your mouth.

It’s a perfect dish for entertaining, as it can be made ahead of time and reheated before serving.

CONS

This dish requires a few kitchen tools, such as a Dutch oven or oven-safe casserole, which may not be available in every kitchen.

Lamb can be on the pricier side, making this dish a more expensive option.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Lamb is a good source of protein, iron, and vitamin B12, which is essential for energy production and the maintenance of a healthy nervous system.
The spices in this dish, such as coriander and cinnamon, have been linked to reducing inflammation and aiding in digestion.
The dried cherries are also a good source of fiber and antioxidants.

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