Spinach Stew with Lamb

Authentic Spinach Stew with Lamb Recipe from Tanzania | Ingredients: Lamb, Spinach, Coconut Milk, Curry, Onion, Tomato

Region / culture: Tanzania | Servings: : 4

Introduction

Spinach stew with lamb is a delicious and nutritious dish that combines tender chunks of lamb with fresh spinach and aromatic spices. This hearty stew is perfect for a cozy dinner on a cold evening or a special occasion with family and friends.

History

This recipe has its roots in traditional Middle Eastern and Indian cuisine, where lamb is a popular meat choice and spinach is a staple green vegetable. The combination of tender lamb, creamy coconut milk, and fragrant curry powder creates a rich and flavorful stew that is sure to impress.

Ingredients

2 lb (907 g) lean lamb meat, cubed
2 cup water
0.5 tsp salt
0.5 tsp white pepper
4 medium bunches fresh spinach, washed
1 can (14 oz (397 g)) coconut milk
4 oz (113 g) butter or ghee (available at ethnic markets)
1.5 tsp curry powder
1 large onion, diced
1 large ripe tomato, diced

How to prepare

In a pot, cook the lamb in water seasoned with salt and pepper until the lamb is fully cooked, approximately 10 minutes.
Place the cut spinach in a medium-sized pot and pour in the coconut milk.
Cook over medium heat for about 10 minutes.
In a separate pan, melt the butter and add curry powder, onion, and tomato.
Add the cooked meat and cook over low heat for about 5 minutes.
Add the reserved spinach and coconut milk to the pan and cook for an additional 10 minutes.

Variations

Substitute chicken or beef for the lamb for a different flavor profile.
Add diced potatoes or carrots to the stew for extra vegetables and texture.
Use spinach and kale for a more nutrient-dense green base.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to use lean meat for this recipe to keep it healthy and reduce excess fat.

- Washing the spinach thoroughly is important to remove any dirt or grit.

- Adjust the amount of curry powder to suit your taste preferences - you can add more for a spicier stew or less for a milder flavor.

- Cooking the lamb in water before adding it to the stew helps to tenderize the meat and infuse it with flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the spinach stew with lamb over steamed rice or with warm naan bread for a complete and satisfying meal. Garnish with fresh cilantro or a squeeze of lemon juice for added flavor.

Cooking Techniques

Braising the lamb in water before adding it to the stew helps to lock in moisture and flavor.

- Cooking the spinach in coconut milk infuses it with a creamy and rich texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use olive oil or vegetable oil instead of ghee if desired.

- Substitute canned diced tomatoes for fresh tomatoes if they are not in season.

Make Ahead Tips

This stew can be made ahead of time and reheated before serving. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the spinach stew with lamb in individual bowls garnished with a sprig of fresh mint or a dollop of yogurt. - Arrange a platter of warm naan bread or pita alongside the stew for dipping and scooping.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair this spinach stew with lamb with a side of cucumber raita or a simple green salad for a refreshing contrast.

- Serve with a glass of red wine or a cold beer to complement the rich and savory flavors of the stew.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

- Reheat the stew in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

350 per serving

Carbohydrates

- Total Carbohydrates: 10g

- Dietary Fiber: 3g

- Sugars: 2g

Fats

- Total Fat: 20g

- Saturated Fat: 15g

- Trans Fat: 0g

Proteins

- Protein: 30g

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin A: 50% DV

- Vitamin C: 30% DV

- Iron: 25% DV

Alergens

Contains coconut milk and ghee (clarified butter), which may be allergens for some individuals.

Summary

This spinach stew with lamb is a nutritious and balanced meal that provides a good source of protein, vitamins, and minerals. It is relatively low in carbohydrates and high in healthy fats from coconut milk and ghee.

Summary

Spinach stew with lamb is a flavorful and nutritious dish that is perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion. This hearty stew combines tender chunks of lamb with fresh spinach, creamy coconut milk, and aromatic spices for a delicious and satisfying meal. Enjoy this dish with rice, naan bread, or a side salad for a complete and balanced meal.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the joy I felt when I first stumbled upon this recipe for Spinach Stew with Lamb. It was many years ago, back when I was just a young girl, eager to learn the art of cooking from my own grandmother. She was a master in the kitchen, always whipping up delicious meals that brought our family together around the dinner table.

One summer day, my grandmother and I were out gathering fresh ingredients from our garden when she suddenly stopped in front of the spinach patch. With a mischievous twinkle in her eye, she plucked a handful of vibrant green leaves and handed them to me. "We're going to make something special today," she said with a smile.

As we made our way back to the kitchen, my grandmother began to tell me the story behind the recipe. She explained that she had learned it from a dear friend who had traveled all the way from Greece. It was a traditional dish that was passed down through generations, and my grandmother had put her own spin on it over the years.

We started by preparing the lamb, marinating it in a blend of herbs and spices that filled the kitchen with a tantalizing aroma. While the meat tenderized, we chopped up onions, garlic, and tomatoes to create the rich base of the stew. My grandmother taught me to sauté the ingredients slowly, allowing them to release their flavors and meld together into a savory sauce.

Once the lamb was browned and the vegetables were softened, we added the spinach to the pot. I watched in awe as the vibrant leaves wilted down, turning a deep, earthy green. My grandmother stirred the stew gently, letting the ingredients come together in a harmonious blend of colors and textures.

As the stew simmered on the stove, my grandmother shared stories of her own childhood and the meals she had enjoyed with her own family. She spoke of the importance of cooking with love and passion, of sharing meals with loved ones and creating memories that would last a lifetime.

Finally, after hours of anticipation, the spinach stew with lamb was ready. We ladled generous portions into bowls and garnished them with a dollop of tangy yogurt and a sprinkle of fresh herbs. The first bite was a revelation – the tender lamb melted in my mouth, while the spinach was rich and flavorful, with a hint of sweetness from the tomatoes.

I knew then that this recipe would become a staple in my own kitchen, a dish to be shared with friends and family for years to come. My grandmother smiled at me, her eyes twinkling with pride. "You've learned well, my dear," she said. "Cooking is about more than just following a recipe – it's about passion, creativity, and love."

And so, that day marked the beginning of my culinary journey, a journey that would lead me to discover new flavors and techniques, to experiment with different ingredients and recipes, and to share the joy of cooking with those I love. The spinach stew with lamb became a symbol of my grandmother's wisdom and guidance, a reminder of the power of food to bring us together and create lasting memories.

As I sit here now, many years later, preparing the same dish for my own grandchildren, I can't help but feel a sense of gratitude for the lessons I learned that day in my grandmother's kitchen. Cooking has become more than just a hobby for me – it's a way of connecting with my past, honoring my heritage, and sharing the gift of good food with those around me.

And so, as I stir the pot and inhale the fragrant aroma of the spinach stew with lamb, I am filled with a sense of contentment and joy, knowing that I am carrying on a tradition that has brought so much happiness and nourishment to my family for generations. Cooking, after all, is about more than just preparing a meal – it's about creating memories that will last a lifetime.