Smoky Mediterranean Lamb Orzo (Printable View)

Hearty Mediterranean dish with tender lamb, smoky spices, and orzo pasta for a flavorful meal.

# Ingredient List:

→ Meats

01 - 1 lb boneless lamb shoulder or leg, cut into 1-inch cubes
02 - 1 tbsp smoked paprika

→ Vegetables

03 - 1 medium red onion, finely chopped
04 - 2 garlic cloves, minced
05 - 1 red bell pepper, diced
06 - 1 medium zucchini, diced
07 - 14 oz canned diced tomatoes
08 - 3.5 oz baby spinach

→ Spices & Seasonings

09 - 1 tsp ground cumin
10 - 1 tsp dried oregano
11 - ½ tsp ground cinnamon
12 - ¼ tsp dried chili flakes (optional)
13 - Salt and black pepper, to taste

→ Grains & Liquids

14 - 1 cup orzo pasta
15 - 3 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable stock
16 - 1 tbsp olive oil

→ Garnishes

17 - ⅓ cup crumbled feta cheese
18 - Fresh parsley, chopped
19 - Lemon wedges

# How to Make:

01 - Heat olive oil in a large heavy pot over medium-high heat. Toss lamb cubes with smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Sear lamb for 3 to 4 minutes until browned on all sides, then remove and set aside.
02 - Reduce heat to medium. Add chopped onion and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic, diced bell pepper, and zucchini, cooking for 5 minutes while stirring occasionally.
03 - Incorporate ground cumin, dried oregano, ground cinnamon, and optionally dried chili flakes. Cook for 1 minute until aromatic.
04 - Return browned lamb to the pot. Add diced tomatoes and stock. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 20 minutes.
05 - Stir in orzo pasta. Simmer for 10 to 12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until orzo is tender and most liquid has absorbed.
06 - Fold in baby spinach and cook for 2 minutes until wilted. Adjust salt and pepper to taste.
07 - Serve hot, garnished with crumbled feta, chopped parsley, and lemon wedges.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • One pot meal
  • Contains smoky flavors and tender lamb
02 -
  • Add a dash of smoked salt or a few drops of liquid smoke for more smoky flavor
  • Substitute lamb with chicken thighs or chickpeas for vegetarian option
03 -
  • Use quality smoked paprika for authentic smoky flavor
  • Do not overcook orzo to avoid mushy texture
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