Ingredients

1 rack of lamb
2 teaspoons ras el hanout spice mix
2 teaspoons spanish smoked paprika ( pimenton )
1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
1 tablespoon pomegranate molasses
1/2 cup pistachio nut
1/4 cup breadcrumbs
1/2 onion , chopped
1 tablespoon butter
1/2 cup israeli couscous
1 cup chicken stock
1/3 cup mint leaf
1/3 cup cilantro leaf
1/3 cup flat leaf parsley
1/4 cup pomegranate seeds
1/2 preserved lemons or 1 lemon , zest of
10 dried apricots
Pistachio-Crusted Moroccan Rack of Lamb With Israeli Couscous is an exciting fusion dish that combines the flavors of Morocco and the Middle East to create a delicious and exotic meal. The dish brings together succulent lamb with a spicy pistachio crust, giving it a unique texture and taste. Israeli couscous is an ancient grain that is loaded with healthy ingredients like legumes, vegetables, and herbs, making it a perfect complement to the rich flavors of the lamb. This dish is perfect for special occasions or date nights when you want to impress someone with your culinary skills.

Instructions

1.Preheat your oven to 180C/350F. Line the oven tray with parchment paper and place the lamb with the fat side up on the tray. Rub the spice mix and smoked paprika onto the lamb, evenly distributing the spices over the meat.
2.In a food processor, grind the pistachios until coarsely crushed. Add in the breadcrumbs and mix them evenly with the nuts. Drizzle the olive oil and pomegranate molasses over the nuts’ mixture, and pulse until blended.
3.Pat the pistachio mixture onto the lamb to securely coat the whole lamb with the crust. Roast the lamb for approximately 30-35 minutes, or until the meat is cooked to your preference
4.Meanwhile, begin to cook the couscous by sauteing the onion with the butter in a saucepan until it becomes soft, around 5 minutes or so. Add in the chicken stock and let it come to a boil. Then, add in the couscous and stir it well. Bring the heat down to a low flame, cover the pan with a lid and let it simmer for approximately 10-12 minutes, or until the couscous has absorbed the chicken stock and is fluffy, yet firm.
5.Add in the chopped herbs, preserved lemon zest, apricots, and pomegranate seeds to the couscous, and stir it all together until evenly mixed. Serve the lamb by carving it into cutlets, placing them on a bed of couscous.

PROS

This recipe is an excellent way to introduce some exotic flavor to your dinner table.
The lamb is cooked to perfection by roasting it with a delicious and flavorful pistachio crust.
The Israeli couscous is full of healthy ingredients, making it a delightful and nutritious addition to your meal.
Plus, it’s easy to make and quite filling.

CONS

Preparing the lamb can be a bit difficult for some people, especially those who haven’t cooked with rack of lamb before.
Moreover, some of the ingredients used in the recipe, such as preserved lemon and ras el hanout spice mix, might not be easily available.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Lamb is an excellent protein source that is low in fat and rich in essential nutrients like zinc, iron, and vitamin B12. Pistachios are packed with antioxidants and other beneficial compounds that can help regulate cholesterol levels and lower the risk of heart disease. Couscous is a good source of fiber and plant-based protein, making it an excellent choice for vegetarians and vegans. The herbs used in this recipe, such as mint and cilantro, are rich in vitamins and minerals that can boost your immune system and help fight off diseases.

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