Smoky Mediterranean Lamb Orzo (Printable Version)

Hearty one-pot dish featuring smoky lamb, aromatic spices, orzo, and fresh Mediterranean flavors.

# What You’ll 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

# Step-by-Step Guide:

01 - Heat olive oil in a large heavy pot over medium-high heat. Toss lamb cubes with smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Add lamb to pot and sear for 3–4 minutes until evenly browned on all sides. Remove lamb and set aside.
02 - Reduce heat to medium. Add chopped onion and cook for 2–3 minutes until softened. Stir in minced garlic, diced red bell pepper, and zucchini. Continue cooking for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
03 - Incorporate ground cumin, dried oregano, ground cinnamon, and optional chili flakes. Cook for 1 minute until spices release their aroma.
04 - Return seared lamb to 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 and simmer for 10–12 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 black pepper as needed.
07 - Plate the dish hot, garnished with crumbled feta cheese, chopped parsley, and lemon wedges.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • Hearty one-pot meal
  • Rich smoky Mediterranean flavors
02 -
  • Orzo can be substituted with gluten-free pasta or rice for dietary needs
  • Feta cheese contains milk but can be replaced with a plant-based alternative
03 -
  • For deeper smoky flavor add a dash of smoked salt or a few drops of liquid smoke
  • Do not overcook orzo as it will become mushy; check frequently towards the end
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