Hey there, fellow foodies! Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with a recipe that’s guaranteed to impress: Smoky Lamb and Pepper Stew. With its tender chunks of lamb, vibrant peppers, and a medley of aromatic spices, this stew is the epitome of comfort and satisfaction. Join me as I guide you through the steps to create this exquisite dish in the comfort of your own kitchen.
Smoky Lamb and Pepper Stew
Equipment
- 1 medium saucepan or skillet
Ingredients
- 1 1⁄4 pounds lamb neck fillet, cut into bite-sized chunks and seasoned
- 3⁄4 pound potatoes, peeled and cut into small chunks
- 1 teaspoon hot smoked paprika
- Olive oil to taste
- 2 cups chicken stock
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, sliced
- 1 jar Piquillo peppers, drained
- 1 can cherry tomatoes
- Handful flat-leaf parsley, chopped
- Crusty bread to serve
Instructions
- Heat olive oil over medium heat in a medium saucepan or skillet.
- Add the lamb and stir-cook until evenly brown. Set aside.
- Add the onion and garlic and stir-cook until softened and translucent.
- Mix in the stock, paprika, lamb, and tomatoes.
- Reduce heat to low and simmer for about 1 hour and 15 minutes until the lamb is tender, stirring occasionally.
- Mix in the peppers and potatoes and cook for 20 minutes until the potatoes are tender.
- Mix in the parsley and serve with crusty bread.
Video
Notes
Alternative Method: Pressure Cooker
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds (900g) lamb shoulder, cut into chunks
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 red bell peppers, seeded and sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, seeded and sliced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup (240ml) beef or vegetable broth
- 1 can (14 ounces/400g) diced tomatoes
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Set your pressure cooker to the sauté function and heat the olive oil. Add the lamb chunks and brown them on all sides for about 5 minutes. Remove the lamb from the pressure cooker and set it aside.
- In the same pressure cooker, add the diced onion, minced garlic, and sliced bell peppers. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables start to soften.
- Sprinkle the smoked paprika, ground cumin, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper over the sautéed vegetables. Stir well to coat the vegetables in the aromatic spices.
- Return the browned lamb to the pressure cooker, along with any accumulated juices. Pour in the beef or vegetable broth and add the diced tomatoes (including the liquid from the can).
- Lock the lid of the pressure cooker in place and set it to high pressure. Cook for 35 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the lamb to become tender.
- After the cooking time is complete, carefully release the pressure using the quick-release method according to your pressure cooker’s instructions.
- Open the lid and give the stew a gentle stir. If desired, adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve the Smoky Lamb and Pepper Stew hot, garnished with fresh parsley. It pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or steamed rice.
Note: The pressure cooker method significantly reduces the cooking time while still delivering tender and flavorful results. It’s perfect for those times when you’re short on time but still want to enjoy a hearty and delicious Smoky Lamb and Pepper Stew.
Cooking Tips
To ensure the best results when making Smoky Lamb and Pepper Stew, here are some valuable tips and tricks:
- Browning the lamb: Take the time to thoroughly brown the lamb chunks before proceeding with the recipe. This step adds depth of flavor and helps seal in the juices, resulting in tender and succulent meat.
- Adjusting the spices: Feel free to customize the spice levels to suit your taste preferences. If you prefer a spicier stew, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a diced jalapeño pepper. Conversely, if you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of smoked paprika or omit the chili flakes.
- Adding additional vegetables: While this recipe focuses on lamb and peppers, you can experiment by adding other vegetables such as carrots, zucchini, or mushrooms. These additions can enhance the flavors and add more variety to the stew.
- Letting the flavors meld: Like many stews, Smoky Lamb and Pepper Stew tastes even better the next day as the flavors have had time to meld together. Consider making a larger batch to enjoy leftovers or make it in advance for a special occasion.
Serving Suggestions
Smoky Lamb and Pepper Stew is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various settings. Here are some serving suggestions and ideas to elevate your culinary experience:
- Perfect for cozy gatherings: This stew is ideal for intimate dinners or cozy gatherings with loved ones. Its rich flavors and hearty nature make it a comforting and satisfying choice for colder months.
- Recommended sides and garnishes: Pair your Smoky Lamb and Pepper Stew with crusty bread or fluffy couscous to soak up the flavorful sauce. A side of steamed rice or mashed potatoes also works wonderfully. Garnish each serving with freshly chopped parsley or cilantro for a burst of freshness.
- Complementary beverages: Serve this stew with a robust red wine such as Malbec or Syrah to complement the richness of the dish. For non-alcoholic options, consider a fruity iced tea or a sparkling water infused with citrus slices.
- Different ways to serve: Besides being a stand-alone dish, you can get creative with how you serve Smoky Lamb and Pepper Stew. For a unique twist, ladle the stew over creamy polenta or serve it as a filling for warm tortillas, creating flavorful lamb tacos.
- Leftovers and storage: If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed to maintain the desired consistency.
FAQs about Smoky Lamb and Pepper Stew
Can I use a different cut of lamb for this stew?
Absolutely! While lamb neck is commonly used for its tenderness and flavor, you can also use lamb leg or lamb stew meat. Adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure the meat becomes tender.
Can I make this stew in advance?
Yes, Smoky Lamb and Pepper Stew is an excellent make-ahead dish. In fact, the flavors deepen and intensify with time. Prepare the stew, let it cool, and refrigerate it overnight. Gently reheat it on the stovetop or in the oven the next day.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Certainly! Smoky Lamb and Pepper Stew freezes well. Allow the stew to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stovetop.
Can I substitute the peppers with other vegetables?
Of course! While peppers contribute to the vibrant colors and flavors of the stew, you can experiment with other vegetables such as eggplant, green beans, or butternut squash. Just ensure the vegetables are cut into similar-sized pieces for even cooking.
In this detailed blog post, discover an alternative method for preparing Smoky Lamb and Pepper Stew using a pressure cooker. With helpful cooking tips, serving suggestions, and answers to common questions, this recipe will become a favorite for cozy gatherings. Don’t forget to share the recipe and subscribe to the blog for more delicious culinary inspiration!