Smoky Mediterranean Lamb Orzo (Printable Page)

Hearty lamb simmered with smoky spices, orzo, and Mediterranean vegetables in a flavorful one-pot dish.

# What You Need:

→ 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

# Steps:

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 - Lower heat to medium. Add chopped onion and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until softened. Stir in minced garlic, diced bell pepper, and zucchini; cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
03 - Incorporate ground cumin, dried oregano, ground cinnamon, and chili flakes if using. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
04 - Return seared lamb to the pot. Add canned diced tomatoes and stock. Bring mixture 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 is absorbed.
06 - Fold in baby spinach and cook for 2 minutes until wilted. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
07 - Serve hot, garnished with crumbled feta cheese, chopped parsley, and lemon wedges.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • One pot meal
  • Smoky flavors paired with Mediterranean spices
02 -
  • For a smokier flavor, add a dash of smoked salt or a few drops of liquid smoke
  • Substitute lamb with chicken thighs or keep it vegetarian by using chickpeas
03 -
  • Use a heavy pot or Dutch oven to ensure even cooking and browning
  • Do not overcook the orzo to avoid mushy texture
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