Lamb has a rich, unique flavor. I love cooking with halal lamb, and luckily there is a variety of delicious, easy-to-make recipes that I come back to again and again.
One of them is Bolognese. I know it’s traditionally made with beef, but I much prefer lamb. The meat’s intense taste mixed with the tomato, rosemary, oregano, basil, garlic and even a little nutmeg, is unbeatable. The Italians might not forgive me, but I do like to be even more inventive with a ‘Bolognese,’ adding different flavors, like cinnamon, red chili flakes and coriander to give a warm, aromatic depth to the dish. Sometimes I serve it with a drizzle of single cream too.
To make it, I sauté the vegetables in olive oil in a large, deep dish — carrots, celery and onions along with the garlic. Once the onions are translucent I add the lamb and gently brown the meat, and then add the tinned tomatoes, bay leaves, tomato purée, stock, chili and cherry tomatoes. Once the dish is slow cooking I can spend my time doing other things I need or want to do. The Bolognese is packed with taste, which tastes even better on day two when the flavors are fuller. I love pairing the Spaghetti Bolognese with a crunchy fresh loaf.
Lamb kebabs are another favourite halal lamb dish of mine. They are simple to prepare and then to freeze, for easy grilling during the week. Kebabs are so versatile as easy weekday dinners. Grill for a couple of minutes for a succulent meaty dish that’s perfect with a yogurt dip and garlic bread, or skewered with red onions and peppers. I almost always serve it with a nice crunchy salad, thrown together in a minute.
My love of lamb inspires me to make dinner at home and indulge, and indulge I do! I hope you do too.
