Arbëreshë Spicy Lamb Stew

Ingredients

In this adaptation of the Indian dish Ambot tik to Arbëreshë cuisine, we incorporate the unique flavors and ingredients of the Arbëreshë culture. While the original dish is known for its tangy and sour taste, the Arbëreshë version focuses on creating a fiery and spicy flavor profile. We use a combination of local spices and herbs to achieve this distinct taste, making it a perfect fit for the Arbëreshë palate. We alse have the original recipe for Ambot tik, so you can check it out.

• 1 kg (2.2 lbs) lamb, cut into chunks 1 kg (2.2 lbs) lamb, cut into chunks
• 2 tablespoons olive oil 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 onions, finely chopped 2 onions, finely chopped
• 4 cloves of garlic, minced 4 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 teaspoons paprika 2 teaspoons paprika
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 cups (470ml) chicken broth 2 cups (470ml) chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 450 kcal / 1884 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 25g, 8g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 8g, 3g
• Protein: 45g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onions and garlic, and sauté until they are soft and translucent.
2. 2.
   Add the lamb to the pot and cook until it is browned on all sides.
3. 3.
   In a small bowl, combine the paprika, cayenne pepper, cumin, coriander, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Sprinkle this spice mixture over the lamb and stir well to coat.
4. 4.
   Pour in the chicken broth, tomato paste, and red wine vinegar. Stir to combine all the ingredients.
5. 5.
   Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 2-3 hours, or until the lamb is tender and the flavors have melded together.
6. 6.
   Serve the Arbëreshë Spicy Lamb Stew hot, garnished with fresh cilantro. Enjoy with crusty bread or rice.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Lamb — For the best results, choose boneless lamb shoulder or leg. Trim any excess fat before cutting it into chunks.

Tips & Tricks

• Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper according to your spice tolerance.
• For an extra depth of flavor, marinate the lamb in the spice mixture overnight before cooking.
• Serve the stew with a dollop of yogurt on top to balance the spiciness.

Serving advice

Serve the Arbëreshë Spicy Lamb Stew in deep bowls, allowing the rich sauce to mingle with the tender lamb. Accompany it with a side of crusty bread or steamed rice to soak up the flavors.

Presentation advice

Garnish the stew with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro leaves to add a pop of color. Serve it in rustic earthenware bowls to enhance the traditional feel of the dish.