Jamie Oliver Moroccan Lamb Couscous Recipe

Jamie Oliver’s Moroccan Lamb Couscous is a flavorful and aromatic dish that combines tender spiced lamb with fluffy couscous, dried fruits, and fragrant herbs. This dish is inspired by traditional Moroccan flavors, including warm spices like cumin, cinnamon, and coriander, creating a beautifully spiced lamb that pairs perfectly with the light, fluffy couscous. Ideal for a comforting meal, this dish is both hearty and full of vibrant flavors.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

• Fragrant and Flavorful: Infused with Moroccan-inspired spices and herbs.
• Tender and Juicy Lamb: Slow-cooked for a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• Quick and Easy Couscous: Ready in minutes, a perfect side.
• Balanced Sweet and Savory: Dried fruits add a hint of sweetness that complements the spices.
• Ideal for Entertaining: Beautifully presented and perfect for sharing.

What is Jamie Oliver’s Moroccan Lamb Couscous?

Jamie Oliver’s Moroccan Lamb Couscous combines tender, spiced lamb with couscous, dried fruits, and fresh herbs. The lamb is seasoned with a blend of Moroccan spices, seared, and slow-cooked until tender. Served alongside couscous mixed with dried apricots, raisins, and a touch of lemon, this dish brings together a delightful mix of textures and flavors.

Ingredients for Jamie Oliver’s Moroccan Lamb Couscous

• 500g (1 lb) lamb shoulder or leg, cut into chunks
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-inch piece fresh ginger, grated
• 1/2 cup canned tomatoes (or 2 fresh tomatoes, chopped)
• 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 cup couscous
• 1/4 cup raisins or sultanas
• 1/4 cup dried apricots, chopped
• Zest and juice of 1 lemon
• Fresh cilantro and mint, chopped, for garnish
• Optional: slivered almonds or toasted pine nuts for topping

Step-by-Step Instructions to Prepare Jamie Oliver’s Moroccan Lamb Couscous

Step 1: Season the Lamb

In a large bowl, season the lamb chunks with salt, black pepper, cumin, coriander, and cinnamon. Toss to coat the lamb evenly in the spices.

Step 2: Sear the Lamb

In a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the lamb in batches and sear until browned on all sides. Remove the lamb and set it aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics

In the same pot, add a bit more olive oil if needed. Add the chopped onion, garlic, and ginger, and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant.

Step 4: Add Tomatoes and Broth

Stir in the chopped tomatoes and cook for a few minutes until they begin to break down. Return the seared lamb to the pot, then pour in the chicken or vegetable broth. Bring to a simmer, then cover and cook on low heat for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the lamb is tender and the flavors have melded.

Step 5: Prepare the Couscous

In a heatproof bowl, combine the couscous, raisins, chopped dried apricots, and lemon zest. Pour 1 cup of boiling water over the couscous, cover with a lid or plate, and let it sit for 5 minutes. Fluff the couscous with a fork, then drizzle with lemon juice and season with a pinch of salt.

Step 6: Serve

To serve, spoon the couscous onto a large serving platter and top with the tender Moroccan lamb. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro, mint, and optional toasted almonds or pine nuts for added crunch.

Other Jamie Oliver Recipes

• Jamie Oliver Butternut Squash Lasagna
• Jamie Oliver Slow Cooked Venison Stew
• Jamie Oliver Prawn and Pea Risotto

What to Serve with Jamie Oliver’s Moroccan Lamb Couscous

• Greek Yogurt: A dollop of yogurt complements the spices and cools the palate.
• Green Salad: A fresh salad with cucumber, tomato, and lemon dressing pairs nicely.
• Flatbread: Warm pita or naan bread for scooping up the lamb and couscous.
• Roasted Vegetables: Serve with roasted carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini.
• Mint Tea: A traditional Moroccan pairing that enhances the flavors.

Expert Tips for Mastering Jamie Oliver’s Moroccan Lamb Couscous

• Use Fresh Spices: Fresh, high-quality spices enhance the flavor of the dish.
• Sear the Lamb Well: Browning the lamb adds depth and richness to the stew.
• Hydrate the Couscous Properly: Pour boiling water over the couscous and cover tightly for the best texture.
• Add Fresh Herbs: Fresh cilantro and mint add a pop of flavor and color.
• Let It Rest: Allow the lamb to rest briefly after cooking to absorb more flavors.

Variations of Jamie Oliver’s Moroccan Lamb Couscous

• Vegetarian Moroccan Couscous: Substitute lamb with chickpeas and add extra vegetables like bell peppers and carrots.
• Spicy Lamb Couscous: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or harissa for extra heat.
• Lemon-Herb Couscous: Add extra lemon zest and herbs to the couscous for a citrusy twist.
• Lamb and Chickpea Stew: Add a can of chickpeas to the lamb stew for added texture.
• Nutty Couscous: Top the couscous with toasted almonds, pistachios, or pine nuts for added crunch.

How to Store Leftover Jamie Oliver’s Moroccan Lamb Couscous

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed to maintain moisture.

Nutrition Value (Per Serving)

• Calories: 480 kcal
• Protein: 28g
• Fat: 18g
• Carbohydrates: 52g
• Fiber: 6g

FAQs

Can I make Moroccan lamb couscous without dried fruit?

Yes, you can make Moroccan lamb couscous without dried fruit. Simply omit the raisins and apricots, or substitute them with vegetables like carrots or bell peppers for added texture and sweetness.

What can I substitute for lamb in Moroccan lamb couscous?

If lamb is unavailable, you can substitute it with beef stew meat or chicken thighs. These meats absorb the spices well and cook to a tender consistency in the stew.

How long does Moroccan lamb couscous last in the fridge?

Moroccan lamb couscous can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or microwave, adding a bit of broth if needed to maintain moisture.

Can I make Moroccan lamb couscous spicy?

Yes, to make the dish spicy, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chopped fresh chili to the lamb stew. You can adjust the heat level to suit your preference.

Final Words

Jamie Oliver’s Moroccan Lamb Couscous brings together tender, spiced lamb with light, fluffy couscous and sweet dried fruits for a dish that’s comforting, flavorful, and perfect for a special dinner. This Moroccan-inspired meal is full of warming spices and fresh herbs, making it an ideal choice for a flavorful, hearty meal. Enjoy it with family and friends for a satisfying and memorable dining experience.

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