Looking for a rich and aromatic dish to warm your soul? This Greek Lamb and Vegetable Stew Recipe is just the ticket. It’s a delightful mix of tender lamb, fresh vegetables, and fragrant herbs that transports you straight to the Mediterranean with every bite. Perfect for family gatherings or a cozy dinner at home, this stew is a celebration of flavors that is sure to impress.
Imagine sitting down to a hearty bowl of stew, where the tender chunks of lamb are infused with the essence of garlic, oregano, and rosemary. This dish is not only about nourishment; it’s about coming together and enjoying the simple pleasures of home-cooked food. Whether you’re an experienced cook or a beginner, this recipe makes it easy to create a meal that feels special.
A Flavorful Greek Lamb and Vegetable Stew
This Greek Lamb and Vegetable Stew is a comforting dish that brings warmth and satisfaction to the table. Featuring succulent chunks of lamb simmered alongside a colorful assortment of vegetables like zucchini, carrots, and bell peppers, this stew showcases a delightful blend of textures and flavors. The thick, hearty consistency makes it a perfect companion for a loaf of crusty bread or a serving of fluffy rice.
The balance of savory lamb and vibrant vegetables adds depth to the dish, ensuring each spoonful is a delicious experience. The aromatic spices infuse the meat, making it tender and flavorful, while the fresh vegetables provide a bright, earthy freshness that elevates the entire meal.
Ingredients That Shine
The ingredients for this stew play a crucial role in achieving the rich flavors that define this dish. Starting with the lamb, which is essential for building the stew’s foundation, each component complements the others beautifully. Fresh garlic and onions serve as the aromatic base, providing a savory kick that enhances the overall flavor profile.
Adding in colorful vegetables like carrots and zucchini not only contributes to the visual appeal but also creates a harmonious blend of textures. The canned or fresh tomatoes lend a deep red hue and a tangy sweetness that rounds out the dish. As the stew simmers, the flavors meld together, resulting in a comforting concoction that is both satisfying and delicious.
Aromatic Herbs and Spices
Herbs and spices are key players in the Greek Lamb and Vegetable Stew Recipe, with oregano and rosemary providing signature Mediterranean notes. These herbs infuse the dish with a fragrant quality that tantalizes the senses and enhances the natural flavors of the ingredients.
The addition of salt and pepper allows for adjusting the seasoning to personal taste, ensuring that every bite is as flavorful as possible. The careful blending of these seasonings transforms the stew into a warm, inviting meal that is perfect for any occasion.
Cooking Method to Achieve Tender Lamb
The cooking method for this stew is simple yet effective, emphasizing the importance of slow cooking to achieve melt-in-your-mouth lamb. Starting with searing the lamb in olive oil brings out the meat’s rich flavor and adds a lovely browned exterior, setting the stage for a delicious stew.
Next, sautéing the onions and garlic in the same pot builds layers of flavor, creating a tantalizing aroma that fills the kitchen. Once the vegetables are added and softened, the seared lamb returns to the pot, and the mixture simmers together in harmony, allowing the flavors to deepen over time.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
This Greek Lamb and Vegetable Stew is best served hot and can be paired with a variety of side dishes. A thick slice of crusty bread is an inviting addition, ideal for dipping and soaking up the rich broth. Alternatively, serving the stew over fluffy rice adds a satisfying base to absorb the savory juices.
Garnishing with fresh parsley not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a burst of freshness that brightens the dish. Whether enjoyed on a chilly evening or as part of a family gathering, this stew is sure to bring comfort and satisfaction to all who partake.
Nutritional Overview and Serving Size
This hearty stew offers a balanced nutritional profile, making it a wholesome meal option. Each serving contains approximately 350 calories, with a good amount of protein from the lamb, making it filling and nutritious. The inclusion of various vegetables contributes essential vitamins and minerals, ensuring a well-rounded dish.
With about 6 servings per recipe, this Greek Lamb and Vegetable Stew is perfect for sharing with friends and family, making it an excellent choice for gatherings or meal prep for the week ahead. Enjoy the flavors of the Mediterranean with each comforting bowl of this delightful stew.
A Flavorful Greek Lamb and Vegetable Stew
This Greek Lamb and Vegetable Stew is a comforting dish featuring succulent lamb pieces simmered with a medley of vegetables like zucchini, carrots, and bell peppers. The stew is thick, hearty, and deeply flavorful, perfect for pairing with crusty bread or fluffy rice.
With a balance of savory and earthy notes, this recipe will make your taste buds dance. The lamb becomes tender and infused with the aromatic spices, while the vegetables add a bright freshness to the dish.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds lamb shoulder, cut into chunks
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 medium carrots, sliced
- 2 medium zucchini, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Sear the Lamb: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add lamb chunks and sear until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: In the same pot, add onion and garlic. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add Vegetables: Stir in carrots, zucchini, and red bell pepper. Cook for another 5 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften.
- Combine and Simmer: Add the seared lamb back into the pot along with diced tomatoes, broth, oregano, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover. Let it simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the lamb is tender.
- Serve: Adjust seasoning if necessary. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot with crusty bread or over rice.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 6 servings
- Calories: 350kcal
- Fat: 15g
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
