Cretan-style Lagman

Ingredients

In this Cretan-style adaptation of Lagman, we incorporate the essence of Cretan cuisine by using local ingredients and flavors. The original Uzbek dish typically includes spices like cumin and coriander, which are replaced with Mediterranean herbs like oregano and thyme. Additionally, we substitute the traditional noodles with couscous or orzo pasta, adding a unique texture and taste to the dish. We alse have the original recipe for Lagman, so you can check it out.

• 500g (1.1 lb) lamb or beef, cut into chunks 500g (1.1 lb) lamb or beef, cut into chunks
• 2 tablespoons olive oil 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 bell peppers, sliced 2 bell peppers, sliced
• 2 zucchini, sliced 2 zucchini, sliced
• 4 tomatoes, diced 4 tomatoes, diced
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Juice of 1 lemon Juice of 1 lemon
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste
• 250g (8.8 oz) couscous or orzo pasta 250g (8.8 oz) couscous or orzo pasta
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 450 kcal / 1884 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 18g, 6g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 35g, 6g
• Protein: 35g
• Fiber: 6g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sauté until fragrant.
2. 2.
   Add the lamb or beef chunks to the pot and cook until browned on all sides.
3. 3.
   Stir in the sliced bell peppers, zucchini, and diced tomatoes. Cook for a few minutes until the vegetables start to soften.
4. 4.
   Sprinkle the dried oregano and thyme over the mixture, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. 5.
   Pour in enough water to cover the ingredients, bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 1 hour or until the meat is tender.
6. 6.
   Meanwhile, prepare the couscous or orzo pasta according to the package instructions.
7. 7.
   Once the meat is tender, stir in the lemon juice and adjust the seasoning if needed.
8. 8.
   Serve the Cretan-style Lagman over a bed of fluffy couscous or orzo pasta. Garnish with fresh parsley.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Lamb or beef — For a tender and flavorful result, choose cuts of meat that are suitable for slow cooking, such as shoulder or leg. Trim excess fat before cooking.
• Couscous or orzo pasta — Follow the package instructions for the best results. Fluff the cooked couscous with a fork to prevent clumping.

Tips & Tricks

• For a vegetarian version, replace the meat with chickpeas or tofu.
• Add a pinch of chili flakes for a spicy kick.
• Serve with a side of Greek yogurt for a creamy contrast.
• Experiment with different vegetables based on seasonal availability.
• Leftovers can be refrigerated and enjoyed the next day, as the flavors develop even further.

Serving advice

Serve the Cretan-style Lagman hot, with a generous portion of couscous or orzo pasta. Sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness.

Presentation advice

Present the Cretan-style Lagman in a deep serving dish, allowing the vibrant colors of the vegetables to shine through. Garnish with a sprig of fresh thyme or oregano for an elegant touch.