Baked Lamb and Rice

Baked Lamb and Rice is a traditional Lebanese dish that combines tender lamb with fragrant basmati rice, infused with aromatic spices and baked to perfection. This comforting meal is perfect for sharing and embodies the rich culinary heritage of the region.

Ingredients

• Lamb shoulder - 300 grams, cut into bite-sized pieces
• Basmati rice - 150 grams, rinsed
• Onion - 1 medium, finely chopped
• Garlic - 2 cloves, minced
• Olive oil - 2 tablespoons
• Cinnamon - 1 teaspoon
• Allspice - 1/2 teaspoon
• Salt - 1 teaspoon
• Black pepper - 1/2 teaspoon
• Chicken or vegetable broth - 300 ml
• Fresh parsley - 2 tablespoons, chopped (for garnish)
• Pine nuts - 2 tablespoons, toasted (for garnish)

Steps

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
4. Increase the heat to medium-high and add the lamb pieces, browning them on all sides for about 7-10 minutes.
5. Stir in the cinnamon, allspice, salt, and black pepper, mixing well to coat the lamb with the spices.
6. Add the rinsed basmati rice to the skillet, stirring to combine with the lamb and onion mixture.
7. Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, bringing it to a gentle simmer. Remove from heat.
8. Transfer the mixture into a baking dish, spreading it evenly.
9. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
10. After 30 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
11. Remove from the oven, let it sit for 5 minutes, then fluff the rice with a fork.
12. Garnish with chopped parsley and toasted pine nuts before serving.

Nutrition

• Calories: 650
• Protein: 35 g
• Carbs: 60 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Sugar: 1 g
• Sodium: 700 mg
• Cholesterol: 90 mg
• Total Fat: 30 g
• Saturated Fat: 8 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 20 g
• Water: 0.3 L

Health Benefits

• High in protein, supporting muscle health and repair.
• Contains healthy fats from olive oil and pine nuts, which are beneficial for heart health.

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