Instant Pot Middle Eastern Lamb (Printer-friendly)

Aromatic lamb simmered with fragrant spices, vegetables, and tomato for a hearty, comforting dish.

# Required Ingredients:

→ Meats

01 - 2 lbs boneless lamb shoulder or leg, cut into 1-inch cubes

→ Vegetables

02 - 1 large onion, finely chopped
03 - 3 cloves garlic, minced
04 - 2 medium carrots, sliced
05 - 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
06 - 1 red bell pepper, chopped
07 - 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
08 - 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro or parsley, for garnish

→ Spices & Aromatics

09 - 2 tbsp olive oil
10 - 2 tsp ground cumin
11 - 1 1/2 tsp ground coriander
12 - 1 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
13 - 1 tsp ground turmeric
14 - 1/2 tsp ground allspice
15 - 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
16 - 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
17 - 1 bay leaf
18 - Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

→ Liquids

19 - 2 cups low-sodium beef or lamb broth
20 - 2 tbsp tomato paste

→ Optional Additions

21 - 1/2 cup dried apricots, chopped
22 - 1/2 cup cooked chickpeas, drained and rinsed

# How-To Steps:

01 - Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode. Add olive oil and brown the lamb cubes in batches until evenly seared. Remove and set aside.
02 - Add onion and garlic to the pot. Sauté for 2 to 3 minutes until translucent.
03 - Incorporate cumin, coriander, cinnamon, turmeric, allspice, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
04 - Add carrots, potatoes, bell pepper, and tomato paste to the pot. Stir thoroughly.
05 - Return browned lamb to the pot. Add diced tomatoes, broth, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. If desired, include dried apricots and chickpeas.
06 - Secure the lid on the Instant Pot. Select pressure cook/manual setting on high for 30 minutes.
07 - Allow natural pressure release for 10 minutes, then perform quick release to release any remaining pressure.
08 - Discard the bay leaf. Stir the stew, adjust seasoning as needed, and serve hot garnished with fresh cilantro or parsley.

# Expert Suggestions:

01 -
  • One-pot meal
  • Freezer-friendly
02 -
  • Serve with warm flatbread or steamed rice
  • For deeper flavor, marinate lamb with spices for 1 hour before cooking
03 -
  • Use fresh spices for the best aroma and flavor
  • Adjust cayenne according to your heat preference
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