Go Back
Saffron Lamb Stew with Chickpeas, Almonds, and Golden Raisins
Course Main Course
Cuisine Arabic
Servings 4 people

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Wooden spoon
  • Knife
  • Cutting board

Ingredients
  

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1.5 pounds lamb stew meat, cut into 1-inch chunks
  • 1 large onion, diced
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground turmeric
  • Pinch of saffron threads
  • 4 cups chicken or lamb broth
  • 1 can (15 ounces) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 1/2 cup golden raisins
  • 1/3 cup sliced almonds, toasted
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

Instructions
 

  • Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the lamb chunks and brown them on all sides for about 6 minutes. Remove the lamb and set it aside.
  • Add the diced onion to the same pot and cook until softened, about 4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, and turmeric. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  • Return the lamb to the pot. Add the broth and saffron threads. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 1 hour.
  • Stir in the chickpeas and golden raisins. Continue simmering uncovered for 20 minutes so the sauce thickens slightly. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
  • Ladle the stew into bowls. Top each serving with the toasted almonds and chopped parsley.

Notes

Toast the almonds in a dry skillet right before serving so they stay crisp against the soft stew. If the sauce seems too thin at the end, simmer it a few minutes longer without the lid. Leftovers keep well in the fridge for three days and reheat gently on the stove with a splash of broth to loosen the texture.
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Arabic
Equipment: Large pot, Wooden spoon, Knife, Cutting board