When it comes to special occasions, there’s nothing quite like gathering around the table with loved ones to share a delicious meal. In many Middle Eastern cultures, lamb is a staple protein that’s often served at celebrations and gatherings. With its rich flavor and tender texture, it’s no wonder why lamb is such a popular choice for special occasions.
In this article, we’ll explore 20 flavorful Middle Eastern lamb recipes that are perfect for your next gathering. From classic street food-style dishes like shawarma and koftas to hearty stews and pilafs, there’s something on this list for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a dish to impress your guests or just want to try something new, these lamb recipes are sure to please.
Lamb Shawarma with Garlic Sauce
Get ready to savor the authentic flavors of the Middle East with this mouthwatering Lamb Shawarma recipe, perfectly paired with a tangy and aromatic Garlic Sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless lamb shoulder or leg, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1 teaspoon coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 pita breads
– Garlic Sauce (recipe below)
– Tzatziki sauce or pickled turnips for garnish (optional)
Garlic Sauce:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, cumin, coriander, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add lamb slices and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
3. Grill lamb for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Warm pita breads by wrapping them in foil and heating on the grill for a few minutes.
5. Assemble shawarma by placing grilled lamb onto pita bread, topping with Garlic Sauce, and garnishing with tzatziki sauce or pickled turnips (if using).
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Middle Eastern Lamb Kofta Kebabs
Experience the rich flavors of the Middle East with these tender and aromatic lamb koftas, served on skewers with a hint of cumin, coriander, and pomegranate molasses.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground lamb
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 10-12 bamboo skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes
– Pomegranate molasses, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, combine lamb, breadcrumbs, parsley, garlic, olive oil, cumin, coriander, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Divide mixture into 10-12 portions and shape each portion into a ball. Flatten slightly to form an oblong shape.
4. Thread each kofta onto a skewer, leaving a small space between each one.
5. Grill for 8-10 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Serve hot with pomegranate molasses, if desired.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Slow-Cooked Lamb Mansaf with Yogurt Sauce
Slow-Cooked Lamb Mansaf with Yogurt Sauce Recipe
Summary: This hearty Middle Eastern dish is made with tender lamb, aromatic spices, and a creamy yogurt sauce. Perfect for special occasions or everyday meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless lamb shoulder, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 1 cup plain yogurt
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. In a large Dutch oven or slow cooker, combine lamb, onions, garlic, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, cardamom, salt, and pepper.
2. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
3. Meanwhile, mix yogurt, lemon juice, and olive oil in a bowl.
4. Serve the lamb with the yogurt sauce spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 4-10 hours
Spiced Lamb and Rice (Lamb Maqluba)
This traditional Middle Eastern dish is a flavorful and aromatic combination of tender lamb, fluffy rice, and spices, all slow-cooked together in a clay pot.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless lamb shoulder or neck, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/4 teaspoon turmeric
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large clay or ceramic pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the lamb and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot.
3. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Stir in cumin, coriander, cinnamon, cardamom, turmeric, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Add the cooked rice to the pot, stirring to combine with the spice mixture.
6. Return the lamb to the pot, ensuring it’s covered with the rice and spices.
7. Reduce heat to low; cover and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lamb is tender.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Grilled Lamb Chops with Sumac and Mint
Elevate your lamb chops game with this flavorful Middle Eastern-inspired recipe that combines the brightness of mint, the tanginess of sumac, and the smokiness of grilled lamb.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound lamb chops
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons freshly chopped mint leaves
– 1 tablespoon sumac powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, mint leaves, and sumac powder.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the lamb chops.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Grill lamb chops for 4-6 minutes per side, or until cooked to your desired level of doneness.
6. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 12-16 minutes
Lamb and Eggplant Fatteh
Fatteh is a popular Middle Eastern dish that combines tender lamb, rich eggplant, and crunchy pita bread. This recipe is a flavorful and satisfying twist on the classic, perfect for a quick dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless lamb shoulder, cut into small pieces
– 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4-6 pita breads, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons yogurt (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook lamb over medium-high heat until browned, about 5 minutes. Set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add olive oil and sauté eggplant slices until tender, about 10 minutes.
4. Add onion, garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet; cook for 2-3 minutes.
5. Arrange pita bread pieces on a baking sheet and toast in the oven for 5-7 minutes.
6. To assemble fatteh, place toasted pita on a serving plate, top with lamb mixture, eggplant slices, and a dollop of yogurt (if using). Serve warm.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Lamb Stuffed Grape Leaves (Warak Enab)
A classic Middle Eastern dish, Warak Enab is a flavorful and nutritious appetizer or main course that combines tender lamb with aromatic spices and succulent grape leaves.
Ingredients:
– 20-25 grape leaves
– 1 pound ground lamb
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix lamb, onion, garlic, paprika, cumin, salt, and black pepper.
3. Lay a grape leaf flat on a work surface. Place about 1 tablespoon of the lamb mixture in the center of the leaf.
4. Fold the stem end over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll up the leaf to form a neat package. Repeat with remaining leaves and filling.
5. Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Arrange grape leaves seam-side down in a single layer.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until grape leaves are tender and filling is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Persian Lamb and Herb Stew (Ghormeh Sabzi)
This hearty stew is a staple of Persian cuisine, featuring tender lamb, fragrant herbs, and aromatic spices. A perfect comfort food for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound lamb shoulder or shank, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups mixed herbs (parsley, cilantro, dill, and tarragon)
– 1 cup dried lime leaves
– 2 teaspoons ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 2 cups lamb or beef broth
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
3. Add lamb; cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes.
4. Add herbs, lime leaves, cumin, coriander, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Pour in broth; bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer, covered, for 1 1/2 hours or until lamb is tender.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Lamb and Chickpea Tagine with Apricots
This Moroccan-inspired tagine is a flavorful and aromatic stew that combines the rich flavors of lamb, chickpeas, and apricots. Perfect for a cold winter’s night or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless lamb shoulder, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup dried apricots, chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon honey
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium heat.
2. Add the lamb, onion, and garlic; cook until the lamb is browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the chickpeas, apricots, cumin, paprika, cinnamon, salt, and pepper; stir to combine.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and honey; bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 1 1/2 hours or until the lamb is tender.
5. Serve hot over couscous or crusty bread.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Middle Eastern Lamb Pita Sandwiches
Experience the vibrant flavors of the Middle East with these tender lamb pita sandwiches, infused with aromatic spices and fresh herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground lamb
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 4 pita breads
– Lettuce leaves
– Tomato slices
– Cucumber slices
– Feta cheese crumbles (optional)
– Tzatziki sauce (see below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, combine lamb, onion, garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions and shape each into a patty.
4. Grill the patties for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Warm the pita breads by wrapping them in foil and heating in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5 minutes.
6. Assemble the sandwiches with grilled lamb, lettuce, tomato, cucumber, feta cheese (if using), and tzatziki sauce.
Tzatziki Sauce:
– 1 cup Greek yogurt
– 1/2 cup diced cucumber
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Combine all ingredients in a bowl. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Lamb and Lentil Soup (Shorbat Adas)
This classic recipe is a staple in many Arabic households, perfect for a cozy evening or as a nutritious meal during the winter months.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound lamb shoulder or neck, cut into small pieces
– 2 cups brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 4 cups water
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, brown the lamb in a little oil over medium heat.
2. Add onion, garlic, cumin, and coriander; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Add lentils, water, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until lentils are tender.
4. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or cilantro.
Cooking Time: approximately 45 minutes
Lamb and Spinach Fatayer (Savory Hand Pies)
These flaky, savory pastries are a staple of Middle Eastern cuisine, filled with tender lamb and nutritious spinach. Perfect for snacking or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 1/2 cup warm water
– Filling ingredients:
+ 1 pound ground lamb
+ 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
+ 1 onion, finely chopped
+ 1 clove garlic, minced
+ 1 teaspoon cumin
+ Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, and oil. Gradually add warm water to form a dough.
3. Divide the dough into small balls, about the size of a golf ball.
4. Roll out each ball into a thin circle.
5. Place 1-2 tablespoons of filling in the center of each circle.
6. Fold the dough over the filling to form a triangle or square shape, pressing edges to seal.
7. Brush tops with egg wash (beaten egg mixed with water) and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lamb and Bulgur Kibbeh
Kibbeh, a Middle Eastern favorite, gets a delicious twist with the addition of lamb and bulgur wheat. This savory pie is perfect for a satisfying snack or light meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground lamb
– 1 cup cooked bulgur wheat
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Water for mixing
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine lamb, bulgur wheat, onion, garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands or a spoon until just combined.
2. Gradually add water to the mixture, stirring until it forms a thick dough.
3. Divide the dough into 4-6 portions, depending on desired size.
4. Shape each portion into a ball and then flatten slightly into a disk shape.
5. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Fry kibbeh until golden brown, flipping occasionally.
6. Serve hot with your favorite sides or as a snack.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes per batch, depending on size and frying time.
Roasted Lamb Shoulder with Baharat Spice
Roasted Lamb Shoulder with Baharat Spice Recipe
Discover the rich flavors of the Middle East with this aromatic roasted lamb shoulder recipe, infused with the warmth of Baharat spice.
Ingredients:
– 1.5-2 kg lamb shoulder, bone-in
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tsp Baharat spice blend (available at most middle eastern grocery stores)
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– 1 lemon, cut into wedges (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 220°C (425°F).
2. In a small bowl, mix together Baharat spice blend, ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
3. Rub the spice mixture all over the lamb shoulder, making sure to coat it evenly.
4. Place the lamb shoulder on a roasting pan or baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the lamb shoulder.
6. Roast the lamb in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes per kilogram, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
7. Remove from the oven and let rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 1-2 hours depending on the size of the lamb shoulder.
Lamb and Okra Stew (Bamia)
A hearty and flavorful stew originating from the Mediterranean region, Bamia is a perfect dish for a chilly evening. This recipe combines tender lamb with crunchy okra in a rich tomato-based broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless lamb shoulder or shanks, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup okra, sliced
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven or pot over medium heat.
2. Add the lamb and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from the pot and set aside.
3. Add the onion and garlic to the pot; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in the cumin, then add the okra, beef broth, diced tomatoes, and browned lamb. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 1 hour or until the lamb is tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Lamb and Potato Harra (Spicy Lebanese Stew)
Savor the bold flavors of Lebanon with this hearty, aromatic stew that combines tender lamb, creamy potatoes, and a kick of spice.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless lamb shoulder or neck, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 cups lamb or beef broth
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add lamb and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add onion, garlic, cumin, paprika, and cayenne pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until vegetables are softened, about 10 minutes.
3. Add potatoes, diced tomatoes, broth, salt, and black pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 1 hour or until lamb is tender.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Lamb and Freekeh Pilaf
This hearty pilaf combines tender lamb with nutty freekeh (roasted green wheat) and aromatic spices, making for a satisfying and flavorful meal. Perfect for a chilly evening or as a side dish for special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless lamb shoulder, cut into small pieces
– 2 cups freekeh
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the lamb and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in the freekeh, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 25-30 minutes or until the lamb is tender and the pilaf has absorbed most of the liquid.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Lamb and Tomato Shakshuka
Shakshuka, a popular North African dish, is elevated with the addition of tender lamb and juicy tomatoes. This flavorful recipe is perfect for a cozy breakfast or brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless lamb shoulder, cut into small pieces
– 2 large onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups mixed tomatoes (cherry and beefsteak)
– 1 cup lamb broth
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the lamb and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Reduce heat to medium and add the onions. Cook until caramelized, stirring occasionally, about 8 minutes.
4. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute.
5. Add the tomatoes, lamb broth, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
6. Return the lamb to the skillet and stir to coat with the tomato mixture.
7. Reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 20-25 minutes or until the lamb is tender.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Lamb and Pomegranate Molasses Kebabs
Experience the sweet and savory combination of tender lamb and pomegranate molasses on skewers, perfect for a flavorful and exotic dinner or gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound lamb cubes (such as shoulder or leg)
– 1/4 cup pomegranate molasses
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 10-12 bamboo skewers
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together pomegranate molasses, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Add lamb cubes to the marinade and coat evenly. Let sit for at least 30 minutes or up to several hours in the refrigerator.
4. Thread marinated lamb onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
5. Grill kebabs for 8-10 minutes per side, or until lamb reaches desired level of doneness.
6. Serve hot and garnish with fresh parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Lamb and Tahini Hummus Bowl
This flavorful bowl combines the richness of lamb with the creamy goodness of tahini hummus, topped with crispy sumac-spiced pita bread and a sprinkle of parsley. A perfect blend of Middle Eastern flavors in one delicious dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless lamb shoulder, cooked and diced
– 1 cup cooked chickpeas
– 1/2 cup tahini
– 1/4 cup lemon juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 teaspoon cumin
– Sumac-spiced pita bread (store-bought or homemade)
– Fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, garlic, and salt. Blend until smooth.
2. Heat the olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the lamb and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Warm the pita bread by wrapping it in foil and baking at 350°F (180°C) for 5 minutes.
4. Assemble the bowls by spreading the hummus on the bottom, followed by the lamb mixture, and finishing with chopped parsley and crumbled pita bread.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your special occasions with these 20 flavorful Middle Eastern lamb recipes! From classic shawarma and kofta kebabs to slow-cooked mansaf and maqluba, there’s something for every taste and occasion. Enjoy grilled lamb chops with sumac and mint, or try your hand at stuffed grape leaves, Persian stew, and more. Perfect for holidays, gatherings, or just a cozy night in, these recipes showcase the rich flavors and traditions of Middle Eastern cuisine.