Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 pounds lamb shoulder, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, chopped
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Special Equipment Needed:
- Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot with lid
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the lamb and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Remove the lamb from the pot and set aside.
4. Add the onion to the pot and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
5. Add the garlic, cumin, oregano, smoked paprika, and cinnamon to the pot and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
6. Add the chipotle peppers, diced tomatoes, beef broth, and lamb to the pot.
7. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot with a lid.
8. Cook the stew for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally, until the lamb is tender and the sauce has thickened.
9. Stir in the cilantro and season with salt and pepper to taste.
10. Serve hot with your choice of garnishes and sides.
Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 2-3 hours
Temperature:
Cook on medium-high heat until simmering, then reduce to low and cover with a lid.
Serving size:
This recipe serves 4-6 people.
Nutritional information:
Calories: 420
Fat: 22g
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 43g
Sodium: 780mg
Sugar: 5g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Lamb can be substituted with beef or pork.
- Beef broth can be substituted with chicken or vegetable broth.
- Chipotle peppers in adobo sauce can be substituted with 1-2 teaspoons of chipotle powder.
Variations:
- Add diced potatoes or sweet potatoes to the stew for extra texture and flavor.
- Use fresh tomatoes instead of canned for a brighter, fresher taste.
- Add a can of black beans or pinto beans to the stew for extra protein and fiber.
Tips and Tricks:
- Browning the lamb before cooking it in the stew adds extra flavor and texture.
- Stir the stew occasionally while it cooks to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
- Adjust the amount of chipotle peppers to your desired level of spiciness.
Storage Instructions:
Leftover stew can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating Instructions:
Reheat the stew in a pot on the stove over medium heat until heated through.
Presentation Ideas:
Serve the stew in individual bowls with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of chopped cilantro on top.
Garnishes:
- Chopped fresh cilantro
- Sour cream
- Diced avocado
- Shredded cheese
- Lime wedges
Pairings:
- Serve with warm tortillas or crusty bread for dipping.
- Pair with a crisp green salad for a lighter meal.
Suggested Side Dishes:
- Mexican rice
- Refried beans
- Grilled vegetables
Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the stew is too thick, add more beef broth or water to thin it out.
- If the stew is too thin, simmer it uncovered for a few more minutes to thicken the sauce.
Food Safety Advice:
- Make sure the lamb is cooked to an internal temperature of 145°F to ensure it is safe to eat.
- Store leftover stew in the refrigerator within 2 hours of cooking.
Food History:
Lamb stew is a traditional dish in many cultures, including Mexican cuisine. The addition of chipotle peppers and cilantro gives this recipe a distinct Mexican flavor.
Flavor Profiles:
This stew is savory and slightly spicy, with a smoky flavor from the chipotle peppers and a fresh, herbaceous note from the cilantro.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve this stew as a hearty main dish for dinner or lunch. It is perfect for cold weather or when you need a comforting meal.
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Region: Mexican