Pin it A hearty one-pot dish featuring tender lamb, aromatic spices, smoky flavors, and orzo pasta, perfect for a comforting family meal with a Mediterranean flair.
This dish quickly became a family favorite after I served it on a chilly evening. The smoky lamb combined with tender orzo and spices makes it irresistibly cozy.
Ingredients
- Meats: 500 g (1 lb) boneless lamb shoulder or leg, cut into 2.5 cm (1 inch) cubes, 1 tbsp smoked paprika
- Vegetables: 1 medium red onion, finely chopped, 2 garlic cloves, minced, 1 red bell pepper, diced, 1 medium zucchini, diced, 400 g (14 oz) canned diced tomatoes, 100 g (3.5 oz) baby spinach
- Spices & Seasonings: 1 tsp ground cumin, 1 tsp dried oregano, ½ tsp ground cinnamon, ¼ tsp dried chili flakes (optional), Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Grains & Liquids: 200 g (1 cup) orzo pasta, 750 ml (3 cups) low-sodium chicken or vegetable stock, 1 tbsp olive oil
- Garnishes: 50 g (⅓ cup) crumbled feta cheese, Fresh parsley, chopped, Lemon wedges
Instructions
- Step 1:
- In a large heavy pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium high heat. Toss the lamb cubes with smoked paprika, salt, and pepper, then add to the pot. Sear for 3 to 4 minutes until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.
- Step 2:
- Reduce heat to medium. Add onion and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic, bell pepper, and zucchini. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Step 3:
- Add cumin, oregano, cinnamon, and chili flakes (if using). Cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
- Step 4:
- Return the lamb to the pot. Add the canned tomatoes and stock. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 20 minutes.
- Step 5:
- Stir in the orzo and simmer for 10 to 12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Step 6:
- Fold in spinach and cook for 2 minutes until wilted. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Step 7:
- Serve hot, garnished with crumbled feta, chopped parsley, and lemon wedges.
Pin it Gathering around this meal has created wonderful memories for my family, with everyone asking for seconds and sharing stories at the table.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with a crisp Greek salad and crusty bread to complement the smoky flavors of the lamb dish.
Pairing
Pairs well with a medium bodied red wine such as Grenache or Merlot to enhance the Mediterranean spices.
Allergen Info
Contains wheat from the orzo and milk from the feta cheese. For gluten free, substitute orzo with gluten free pasta or rice. For dairy free, omit feta or use a plant based alternative.
Pin it 
This meal is sure to become a staple in your home for its rich flavors and simplicity to prepare.
Recipe FAQs
- → What cut of lamb works best?
Boneless shoulder or leg cuts are ideal due to their tenderness and flavor when cubed and simmered.
- → Can I substitute orzo pasta?
Yes, gluten-free pasta or rice can be used as alternatives to orzo without losing the dish's essence.
- → How to enhance the smoky flavor?
Adding smoked paprika is key, and a dash of smoked salt or liquid smoke can intensify the smoky aroma.
- → Is it suitable for vegetarians?
Substitute lamb with chickpeas or vegetables to create a delicious vegetarian variation.
- → What sides pair well with this dish?
A crisp Greek salad and crusty bread complement the richness perfectly, while medium-bodied wines like Grenache enhance the flavors.