Ingredients

1 tablespoon ground cumin
2 teaspoons ground coriander
1 1/2 teaspoons salt
1 teaspoon fennel seed
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
2 1/2 lbs trimmed boneless lamb shoulder , cut into 1 1/2- to 2-inch pieces
4 tablespoons olive oil , divided
1 large onion , finely chopped
1 tablespoon tomato paste
2 cups low sodium chicken broth
1 can garbanzo beans , drained ( chickpeas )
1 cup dried apricot ( about 5 ounces )
2 large plum tomatoes , chopped
2 cinnamon sticks
1 tablespoon minced peeled fresh ginger
2 teaspoons packed grated lemon peel
2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
Moroccan cuisine is known for its bold flavors and unique spice combinations. This slowcooked lamb dish is no exception, featuring a delectable blend of aromatic spices like cumin, coriander, and cinnamon, combined with sweet dried apricots and savory garbanzo beans. The lamb is first browned on the stove, then slow cooked in a rich tomato and onion sauce until it becomes fall-apart tender. This dish is perfect for those who love to experiment with exotic flavors and enjoy tender, juicy meat. Serve with rice, couscous, or flatbread for a complete meal.

Instructions

1.In a small bowl, combine the cumin, coriander, salt, fennel seed, cayenne pepper, and black pepper. Set aside.
2.In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Brown the lamb in batches, about 5 minutes per batch. Set aside.
3.In the same skillet, heat the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Add the onion and tomato paste and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4.Add the chicken broth, garbanzo beans, apricot, tomatoes, cinnamon sticks, ginger, and lemon peel. Stir in the spice mixture from step 1, and bring to a boil.
5.Transfer the lamb and any juices to a slow cooker. Pour the mixture from the skillet over the lamb.
6.Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until the lamb is tender and falls apart easily.
7.Discard the cinnamon sticks and stir in the cilantro before serving.

PROS

This dish is a perfect balance of sweet and savory, with tender and juicy lamb that melts in your mouth.

The slow cooker method is a set-it-and-forget-it process, making it an easy and convenient weeknight meal.

CONS

The dish takes a long time to cook, so it requires some planning ahead.

The combination of spices and flavors may not be suitable for everyone’s taste.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Lamb is a good source of protein and provides essential nutrients like iron and vitamin B12, which are important for maintaining healthy red blood cells and immune function.
The apricots add natural sweetness and provide fiber, vitamin A, and potassium, which can help regulate blood pressure and improve digestive health.

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