North African Spiced Udon with Lamb

Ingredients

In this adaptation, the original Japanese udon dish is transformed into a North African delight by incorporating traditional North African spices such as cumin, coriander, and paprika. The lamb is marinated in these spices to infuse it with the bold flavors of North African cuisine. Additionally, the dish is served over udon noodles instead of the traditional Japanese broth, creating a fusion of flavors and textures. We alse have the original recipe for Stamina Udon, so you can check it out.

• 500g (1.1 lb) lamb, cut into bite-sized pieces 500g (1.1 lb) lamb, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons olive oil 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 can (400g) diced tomatoes 1 can (400g) diced tomatoes
• 2 cups (470ml) vegetable broth 2 cups (470ml) vegetable broth
• 250g (8.8 oz) udon noodles 250g (8.8 oz) udon noodles
• Salt and pepper, to taste Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 450 kcal / 1884 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 20g, 6g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 30g, 5g
• Protein: 35g
• Fiber: 5g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until the onion becomes translucent.
2. 2.
   Add the lamb to the pan and cook until browned on all sides.
3. 3.
   In a small bowl, combine the ground cumin, coriander, paprika, turmeric, and cinnamon. Sprinkle the spice mixture over the lamb and stir well to coat the meat evenly.
4. 4.
   Pour in the diced tomatoes and vegetable broth, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir to combine all the ingredients.
5. 5.
   Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and simmer for 1 hour, or until the lamb is tender and the flavors have melded together.
6. 6.
   While the lamb is simmering, cook the udon noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
7. 7.
   To serve, divide the cooked udon noodles among serving bowls. Ladle the spiced lamb and sauce over the noodles. Garnish with fresh cilantro.
8. 8.
   Enjoy the North African Spiced Udon with Lamb while it's hot and flavorful.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Lamb — For a more tender result, marinate the lamb in the spice mixture for at least 1 hour before cooking.
• Udon noodles — Cook the udon noodles just before serving to ensure they retain their chewy texture.

Tips & Tricks

• If you prefer a spicier dish, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the spice mixture.
• For a vegetarian version, substitute the lamb with tofu or chickpeas.
• Serve the North African Spiced Udon with Lamb with a side of couscous or flatbread to complete the North African experience.
• Adjust the seasoning according to your taste preferences. Add more spices or salt if desired.
• Leftovers can be refrigerated and enjoyed the next day, as the flavors tend to develop and intensify over time.

Serving advice

Serve the North African Spiced Udon with Lamb in individual bowls, garnished with fresh cilantro. Accompany it with a side of couscous or warm flatbread to soak up the flavorful sauce.

Presentation advice

To enhance the presentation, sprinkle some additional ground spices, such as cumin or paprika, over the dish before serving. The vibrant colors of the spices will add visual appeal to the dish.