Kuzu Kafesi

Kuzu Kafesi is a delightful Turkish dessert made from tender lamb cooked with sweet spices, served atop a bed of fragrant rice. This unique dish balances savory and sweet flavors, making it a memorable end to any meal.

Ingredients

• Lamb shoulder - 200 grams, diced
• Long-grain rice - 100 grams
• Water - 400 ml
• Onion - 1 small, finely chopped
• Butter - 30 grams
• Cinnamon stick - 1
• Cardamom pods - 2, crushed
• Honey - 2 tablespoons
• Salt - 1 teaspoon
• Black pepper - 1/4 teaspoon
• Chopped nuts (pistachios or walnuts) - 30 grams, for garnish
• Dried apricots - 30 grams, chopped

Steps

1. In a pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
2. Add the diced lamb to the pot and brown on all sides.
3. Stir in the cinnamon stick and crushed cardamom pods, followed by the honey, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
4. Pour in 200 ml of water, cover the pot, and let it simmer on low heat for about 30 minutes until the lamb is tender.
5. Meanwhile, rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. In a separate pot, bring the remaining 200 ml of water to a boil. Add the rice and a pinch of salt, cover, and cook for 15 minutes until the water is absorbed and the rice is fluffy.
6. Once the lamb is cooked, remove the cinnamon stick and cardamom pods. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
7. To serve, place a generous scoop of rice on each plate, top with the lamb mixture, and garnish with chopped nuts and dried apricots.

Nutrition

• Calories: 480
• Protein: 30 g
• Carbs: 60 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Sugar: 8 g
• Sodium: 300 mg
• Cholesterol: 75 mg
• Total Fat: 18 g
• Saturated Fat: 7 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
• Water: 0.4 L

Health Benefits

• Rich in protein from the lamb, supporting muscle health.
• Contains healthy fats from nuts, promoting heart health.

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