Lamb Guvet from Turkey
Lamb Guvet, also known as lamb stew, is a traditional Turkish dish that is rich in flavour and texture. This hearty meal is made with tender pieces of lamb, vegetables, and aromatic herbs that come together to create a delicious and nutritious meal.
To prepare this dish, you will need a few key ingredients such as lamb meat, onions, tomatoes, garlic, potatoes, carrots, green beans, and red peppers. These ingredients are first sautéed in olive oil until they are tender and fragrant. Then, the lamb is added to the pan along with some water or broth, and the mixture is allowed to simmer until the meat is tender and the flavours have melded together.
High Quality Spices
One of the defining characteristics of lamb Guvet is the use of herbs and spices. Bay leaves, thyme, and rosemary are commonly used to add depth and complexity to the dish. Paprika and cumin are also used to provide a warm and earthy flavour that complements the sweetness of the vegetables.
Making the Lamb Guvet
The key to making a delicious lamb Guvet is to ensure that the lamb is cooked until it is tender and falls apart easily. This can take anywhere from 1-2 hours depending on the
size and cut of the meat. It is important to stir the mixture occasionally to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pan and to ensure that all the ingredients are evenly distributed.
Served Hot with Crusty Bread
Once the lamb Guvet is fully cooked, it is served hot with a side of crusty bread or over a bed of rice. This dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner or for entertaining guests. It is also a great way to use up leftover lamb or vegetables in your fridge.
Conclusion
In conclusion, lamb Guvet is a delicious and hearty dish that is perfect for any occasion. With its rich flavours and hearty ingredients, it is sure to be a hit with both meat-lovers and vegetable enthusiasts alike. So why not give it a try and see for yourself?
How to Make the Lamb Guvet
Ingredients with Measurements:
1 pound lamb, cubed
1 onion, chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
2 tomatoes, chopped
1 red bell pepper, chopped
1 zucchini, chopped
1 eggplant, chopped
1/2 cup green beans, trimmed
1/2 cup peas
1/2 cup carrots, chopped
1/2 cup potatoes, chopped
1/4 cup olive oil
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon cumin
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
1/2 cup water
1/4 cup chopped parsley
Special equipment needed:
– A large oven-safe pot or casserole dish with a lid
Step-by-step instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F.
- Layer the lamb, onion, garlic, tomatoes, red bell pepper, zucchini, eggplant, green beans, peas, carrots, and potatoes in the pot or casserole dish.
- Drizzle the olive oil over the vegetables and lamb.
- Sprinkle the salt, black pepper, paprika, cumin, and red pepper flakes over the vegetables and lamb.
- Pour the water over the vegetables and lamb.
- Cover the pot or casserole dish with the lid.
- Bake in the oven for 1 hour and 30 minutes.
- Remove the lid and bake for an additional 30 minutes, or until the lamb is tender and the vegetables are cooked through.
- Sprinkle the chopped parsley over the top of the güveç.
- Serve hot.
Recommended wine for Lamb Guvet
For Traditional Turkish Lamb Güveç, which is a hearty, slow-cooked lamb stew with rich, earthy flavours from ingredients like tomatoes, peppers, onions, and a medley of spices, here are some wine pairing recommendations:
Syrah/Shiraz
Why: Syrah/Shiraz has bold, peppery, and smoky flavours with hints of dark berries and a full body that stands up to the rich lamb and savoury spices in Güveç.
Region Suggestions: Look for a Syrah from Rhône Valley (France) for a more restrained,
earthy style or a Shiraz from Barossa Valley (Australia if you want something fruit-forward and bold.
Tempranillo (Rioja)
Why: Tempranillo, particularly from the Rioja region in Spain, offers dried red fruit flavours, earthy undertones, and a slight smokiness that pairs well with the spiced lamb and tomatoes in Güveç.
Region Suggestions: Rioja (Spain), especially a Reserva or Gran Reserva for the most balanced oak and spice influence.
Turkish Red Wine – Öküzgözü or Boğazkere
Why: If you want to match the flavours with a native wine, look for Turkish reds like Öküzgözü or Boğazkere. Öküzgözü has a lighter body with fruity, floral notes, while Boğazkere is fuller with tannins and earthy flavours that complement lamb dishes well.
Region Suggestions: Look for Turkish wines
from regions such as Elazığ or Diyarbakır, where these indigenous grapes are grown.
Each option should elevate the savoury, layered flavours in Turkish Lamb Güveç while balancing the spices’ warmth and the lamb’s richness. Enjoy!