Braised Lamb Neck with Lemon, Olives & Warm Spices

The Braised Lamb Neck with Lemon, Olives & Warm Spices is a delightful dish that combines tender lamb with vibrant flavors. This recipe is perfect for cozy dinners or special occasions. The unique combination of lemon, olives, and warm spices elevates the lamb neck to new heights, making it a standout choice for anyone looking to impress their guests or indulge in a comforting meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Incredible Flavor: The mix of lemon, olives, and spices creates a savory dish that tantalizes the taste buds.
• Simple Preparation: With minimal prep time, this dish is easy to make, even for novice cooks.
• Versatile Dish: Great for family gatherings or intimate dinners; this recipe suits various occasions.
• Tender Texture: Slow-braising ensures the lamb neck becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender.
• Health Benefits: Lamb neck is rich in nutrients, making this dish both delicious and nourishing.

Tools and Preparation

To create the best Braised Lamb Neck with Lemon, Olives & Warm Spices, having the right tools will make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large Dutch oven or heavy pot
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large Dutch oven or heavy pot: Ideal for slow-braising, ensuring even cooking and flavor infusion.
• Sharp knife: A must-have for easily slicing ingredients like onions and garlic.
• Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring without scratching your cookware.

Ingredients

For the Lamb

• 2.5 lbs (1.1 kg) lamb neck slices
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, finely sliced
• 6 garlic cloves, smashed

For the Flavorings

• 1 preserved lemon, quartered and seeds removed
• 3/4 cup green olives, pitted
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon

For the Braising Liquid

• 2 bay leaves
• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1/2 cup dry white wine or water

How to Make Braised Lamb Neck with Lemon, Olives & Warm Spices

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Begin by gathering all your ingredients. Slice the onion and smash the garlic cloves. Set them aside for later use.

Step 2: Sear the Lamb Neck

Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
* Once hot, add the lamb neck slices in batches to avoid overcrowding.
* Sear until browned on all sides (about 5-7 minutes). Remove from pot and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté Onions and Garlic

In the same pot, add sliced onions and smashed garlic.
* Cook until onions are soft and translucent (about 5 minutes).

Step 4: Add Flavorings

Stir in preserved lemon quarters, green olives, cumin, coriander, smoked paprika, cinnamon, bay leaves, and optional red pepper flakes into the pot.

Step 5: Deglaze the Pot

Pour in dry white wine or water to deglaze the pot.
* Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom with a wooden spoon.

Step 6: Return Lamb to Pot

Place the seared lamb neck back into the pot.
– Ensure it is submerged in liquid as much as possible.

Step 7: Braise Low and Slow

Cover the pot with a lid.
– Reduce heat to low and let it simmer gently for about 3 hours until tender.

Step 8: Serve Your Dish

Once cooked through, remove from heat. Allow to rest for a few minutes before serving with your favorite sides such as mashed potatoes or crusty bread.

Enjoy your Braised Lamb Neck with Lemon, Olives & Warm Spices!

How to Serve Braised Lamb Neck with Lemon, Olives & Warm Spices

Serving braised lamb neck is an opportunity to highlight its rich flavors and tender texture. This dish pairs beautifully with various sides and garnishes that complement its savory profile.

With Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the dish for a burst of color and freshness.
• Mint Leaves: Add mint leaves for a refreshing contrast that balances the warmth of spices.

On a Bed of Grains

• Couscous: Serve the lamb over fluffy couscous, which absorbs the delicious juices.
• Quinoa: For a nutty alternative, quinoa provides a hearty base that works well with the flavors.

Accompanied by Bread

• Crusty Baguette: Offer slices of crusty baguette to soak up the luscious sauce.
• Pita Bread: Warm pita complements the Mediterranean essence of the dish.

With Seasonal Vegetables

• Roasted Carrots: Sweet roasted carrots add a lovely caramelized flavor that pairs well with lamb.
• Sautéed Greens: Consider sautéed spinach or kale for a nutritious side that enhances the meal.

How to Perfect Braised Lamb Neck with Lemon, Olives & Warm Spices

Perfecting your braised lamb neck is all about attention to detail and technique. Follow these tips for the best results:

• Choose Quality Meat: Select fresh, high-quality lamb neck slices for maximum flavor and tenderness.
• Sear Properly: Searing the meat well before braising enhances the overall taste by adding depth through caramelization.
• Balance Flavors: Adjust seasonings and lemon according to your taste; balancing acidity and warmth is crucial.
• Low and Slow Cooking: Allow plenty of time for slow braising; this method breaks down tough fibers, resulting in tender meat.

Best Side Dishes for Braised Lamb Neck with Lemon, Olives & Warm Spices

Complementing your braised lamb neck with tasty side dishes can elevate your meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Herbed Rice Pilaf: A fragrant rice pilaf infused with herbs makes for a delightful pairing with lamb.
2. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic offer comfort alongside the rich meat.
3. Roasted Root Vegetables: A mix of seasonal root vegetables adds sweetness and earthiness to balance the dish.
4. Mediterranean Salad: A light salad featuring cucumbers, tomatoes, and feta provides freshness against the savory lamb.
5. Grilled Asparagus: Lightly charred asparagus adds crunch and color while complementing the dish’s warmth.
6. Hummus Platter: Serve hummus with assorted dippers like veggies or pita chips for added flavor diversity.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Many home cooks make simple mistakes when preparing Braised Lamb Neck with Lemon, Olives & Warm Spices. Here are some common pitfalls and how to sidestep them.

• Skipping the browning step: Neglecting to sear the lamb neck slices can result in a less flavorful dish. Always brown the meat well to enhance its taste.
• Overcrowding the pot: Adding too many pieces of lamb at once can cause steaming instead of braising. Cook in batches if necessary for even cooking.
• Ignoring seasoning adjustments: Not tasting and adjusting the seasoning during cooking can lead to bland flavors. Sample your dish and tweak as needed.
• Using low-quality olives: Low-quality olives can negatively impact the flavor profile. Opt for high-quality green olives for the best results.
• Underestimating cook time: Braising requires patience. Rushing the cooking process can leave the lamb tough. Follow recommended times for tender meat.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Braised Lamb Neck with Lemon, Olives & Warm Spices in an airtight container.
• It can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Braised Lamb Neck with Lemon, Olives & Warm Spices

• Allow it to cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags, removing as much air as possible.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Braised Lamb Neck with Lemon, Olives & Warm Spices

• Oven: Preheat to 325°F (165°C) and cover the dish with foil. Heat until warmed through, about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Transfer a portion to a microwave-safe dish and cover. Heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally until hot.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed. Stir until heated thoroughly.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Braised Lamb Neck with Lemon, Olives & Warm Spices?

Braised Lamb Neck with Lemon, Olives & Warm Spices is a comforting dish where lamb is slow-cooked with aromatic spices, olives, and preserved lemons for rich flavors.

How long does it take to prepare this dish?

Preparation takes around 15 minutes, while braising takes approximately 2-3 hours depending on the size of the lamb neck slices.

Can I use other cuts of lamb?

Yes! While lamb neck is ideal for its tenderness after slow cooking, you can substitute with shoulder or shanks if desired.

What side dishes go well with Braised Lamb Neck with Lemon, Olives & Warm Spices?

This dish pairs beautifully with couscous, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad to balance the richness of the lamb.

Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it a day ahead and reheat it for even better flavors as they meld overnight.

Final Thoughts

Braised Lamb Neck with Lemon, Olives & Warm Spices is not only delicious but also versatile. This recipe allows you to experiment by adding your favorite herbs or adjusting spices based on personal preference. Give it a try and delight your family or guests!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Braised Lamb Neck with Lemon, Olives & Warm Spices

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 3 hours 15 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

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Description

Braised Lamb Neck with Lemon, Olives & Warm Spices is the ultimate comfort dish, perfect for gatherings or cozy nights in. This recipe features succulent lamb neck slowly braised to perfection with a delightful blend of preserved lemons, savory olives, and aromatic spices. The result is a rich, flavorful dish that is both satisfying and impressive—ideal for impressing guests or indulging in a well-deserved treat. Serve it over grains or with crusty bread to soak up the luscious sauce, making every bite an unforgettable experience.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2.5 lbs lamb neck slices
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, finely sliced
• 6 garlic cloves, smashed
• 1 preserved lemon, quartered
• 3/4 cup green olives, pitted
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 2 bay leaves
• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1/2 cup dry white wine or water

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Instructions

1. Gather and prepare all ingredients by slicing the onion and smashing the garlic.
2. Heat olive oil in a Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear lamb neck slices until browned on all sides (5-7 minutes), then set aside.
3. In the same pot, sauté onions and garlic until soft (about 5 minutes).
4. Add preserved lemon, olives, spices, and bay leaves; stir to combine.
5. Deglaze the pot with white wine or water, scraping any browned bits.
6. Return seared lamb to the pot, ensuring it's submerged in liquid.
7. Cover and simmer on low heat for about 3 hours until tender.
8. Let rest before serving with preferred sides.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 180 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Braising
• Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 410
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 620mg
• Fat: 25g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Unsaturated Fat: 15g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 38g
• Cholesterol: 120mg