Middle Eastern > Quzis

Quzi with Caramelized Onions and Goat Cheese Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 lb. lamb shoulder, bone-in
- 1 tsp. ground cinnamon
- 1 tsp. ground allspice
- 1 tsp. ground cardamom
- 1 tsp. ground cumin
- 1 tsp. salt
- 1/2 tsp. black pepper
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 large onions, sliced
- 2 tbsp. butter
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 4 oz. goat cheese, crumbled

Special equipment needed:
- Large oven-safe pot with lid
- Meat thermometer

Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together cinnamon, allspice, cardamom, cumin, salt, and black pepper.
3. Rub the spice mixture all over the lamb shoulder.
4. Heat olive oil in the pot over medium-high heat. Add the lamb shoulder and sear on all sides until browned, about 5 minutes per side.
5. Remove the lamb shoulder from the pot and set aside.
6. Add the sliced onions and butter to the pot and cook until the onions are caramelized, about 10 minutes.
7. Add the brown sugar to the onions and stir until the sugar has melted and the onions are coated.
8. Place the lamb shoulder on top of the onions in the pot.
9. Cover the pot with the lid and place in the oven.
10. Roast for 2-2.5 hours or until the internal temperature of the lamb reaches 145°F for medium-rare or 160°F for medium.
11. Remove the pot from the oven and let the lamb rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
12. Serve the lamb with the caramelized onions and crumbled goat cheese on top.


- Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
- Cooking time: 2-2.5 hours
Temperature:
- Oven temperature: 350°F
- Internal temperature of lamb: 145°F for medium-rare or 160°F for medium
Serving size:
- 4-6 servings

Nutritional information:
- Calories: 500
- Fat: 36g
- Protein: 32g
- Carbohydrates: 13g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 11g
- Sodium: 670mg

Substitutions for ingredients:
- Lamb shoulder can be substituted with beef or pork shoulder.
- Goat cheese can be substituted with feta cheese or blue cheese.

Variations:
- Add chopped dried apricots or raisins to the caramelized onions for a sweet and savory flavor.
- Use different spices such as coriander, turmeric, or paprika for a different flavor profile.
- Add chopped fresh herbs such as parsley or cilantro for a pop of freshness.

Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to sear the lamb shoulder on all sides before roasting to lock in the juices.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the lamb is cooked to your desired temperature.
- Let the lamb rest before slicing to allow the juices to redistribute.

Storage instructions:
- Store leftover lamb and onions in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating instructions:
- Reheat the lamb and onions in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes or until heated through.

Presentation ideas:
- Serve the lamb and onions on a platter with the crumbled goat cheese on top.
- Garnish with chopped fresh herbs or a sprinkle of paprika.

Garnishes:
- Chopped fresh herbs such as parsley or cilantro
- Sprinkle of paprika

Pairings:
- Serve with a side of roasted vegetables such as carrots, potatoes, or Brussels sprouts.
- Pair with a glass of red wine such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Syrah.

Suggested side dishes:
- Roasted vegetables
- Couscous
- Rice pilaf
- Garlic mashed potatoes

Troubleshooting advice:
- If the lamb is not browning evenly, make sure the pot is hot enough before adding the lamb.
- If the onions are burning, lower the heat and add a splash of water to the pot.

Food safety advice:
- Make sure to cook the lamb to a safe internal temperature to avoid foodborne illness.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator within 2 hours of cooking.

Food history:
- Quzi is a traditional Middle Eastern dish that is typically made with lamb or beef and served with rice.

Flavor profiles:
- Savory, sweet, and tangy with warm spices and creamy goat cheese.

Serving suggestions:
- Serve as a main dish for a dinner party or special occasion.
- Serve with a side salad for a lighter meal.

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Taste: Savory, Tangy, Sweet, Creamy, Umami