Omani Spiced Lamb Shuwa

Ingredients

• 2 kg (4.4 lbs) lamb shoulder, bone-in 2 kg (4.4 lbs) lamb shoulder, bone-in
• 4 tablespoons Omani spice blend (a mix of ground cinnamon, cardamom, cloves, and black pepper) 4 tablespoons Omani spice blend (a mix of ground cinnamon, cardamom, cloves, and black pepper)
• 4 cloves of garlic, minced 4 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Juice of 2 lemons Juice of 2 lemons
• Salt, to taste Salt, to taste
• Fragrant rice, for serving Fragrant rice, for serving

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 450 kcal / 1884 KJ
• Fat: 25g (Saturated Fat: 9g)
• Carbohydrates: 2g (Sugars: 0g)
• Protein: 50g
• Fiber: 0g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat your oven to 150°C (300°F).
2. 2.
   In a bowl, combine the Omani spice blend, minced garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, and salt.
3. 3.
   Rub the spice mixture all over the lamb shoulder, ensuring it is evenly coated.
4. 4.
   Place the lamb in a roasting pan and cover tightly with aluminum foil.
5. 5.
   Roast the lamb in the preheated oven for 4-5 hours, or until the meat is tender and easily pulls apart.
6. 6.
   Remove the foil and increase the oven temperature to 220°C (425°F). Roast for an additional 15-20 minutes to crisp up the exterior.
7. 7.
   Once cooked, remove the lamb from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before carving.
8. 8.
   Serve the Shuwa with fragrant rice and enjoy the succulent flavors of Omani cuisine.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Lamb shoulder — For the best results, choose a lamb shoulder with good marbling, as this will ensure a tender and juicy final dish.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra layer of flavor, marinate the lamb overnight in the spice mixture before roasting.
• If you prefer a spicier Shuwa, add a pinch of chili powder or cayenne pepper to the spice blend.
• To achieve a crispy exterior, you can broil the lamb for a few minutes at the end of the cooking time.

Serving advice

Serve the Shuwa as the centerpiece of a festive meal. Accompany it with fragrant rice, traditional Omani bread, and a selection of side dishes and condiments.

Presentation advice

Present the Shuwa on a large platter, garnished with fresh herbs and lemon wedges. The tender, spiced lamb will be the star of the show.