Introduction
The Gnarly Lamb Madras Traybake is a delightful dish that combines the rich flavors of lamb with the aromatic spices of a traditional Madras curry. This one-pan recipe is not only easy to prepare but also perfect for a family gathering or a cozy dinner. The slow-roasting process allows the lamb to become tender, while the spices infuse the vegetables and meat with a delicious warmth.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– 1.5 kg shoulder of lamb, bone in
– 2 onions, peeled and finely sliced
– 4 cloves of garlic, peeled and minced
– 1 thumb-sized piece of fresh ginger, grated
– 2 tablespoons Madras curry powder
– 2 teaspoons ground coriander
– 2 teaspoons ground cumin
– 1 can (400g) coconut milk
– 2 tablespoons tomato puree
– 2 sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
– 400g canned chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 300g baby spinach
– Fresh coriander for garnish
– Olive oil
– Sea salt and black pepper
Prep Time
Preparation time for the Gnarly Lamb Madras Traybake is approximately 20 minutes. During this time, you will gather all your ingredients, prepare the lamb, and chop the vegetables necessary for the recipe.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook time for the dish is about 2.5 hours, allowing the lamb to slowly roast and the flavors to develop. The total time, including preparation and cooking, is approximately 3 hours. This recipe yields around 6-8 servings, making it ideal for a larger gathering or leftovers for the week ahead.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Lamb
Start by preheating your oven to 220°C (425°F). Take your lamb shoulder and cut it into large chunks. This allows for even cooking and absorption of flavors during the baking process.
Step 2: Season the Lamb
In a large bowl, combine the lamb with a good pinch of sea salt, freshly ground black pepper, and a generous amount of ground cinnamon. Make sure each piece is well coated for maximum flavor.
Step 3: Add Spices
Add a tablespoon of curry powder, a tablespoon of garam masala, and a tablespoon of turmeric to the lamb. Mix thoroughly, ensuring the spices cover all the meat.
Step 4: Chop the Vegetables
Dice your onion and chop the garlic. Prepare your ginger by peeling and grating it. Also, chop your carrots into large pieces.
Step 5: Assemble the Traybake
In a large roasting tray, combine the seasoned lamb, diced onion, garlic, grated ginger, and chopped carrots. Toss everything together to mix the ingredients evenly.
Step 6: Add Tomatoes and Liquids
Pour in a can of chopped tomatoes and add a splash of water. This will create a rich sauce as it cooks, helping to keep the lamb moist.
Step 7: Adjust the Heat
Slice some fresh green chilies and scatter them over the mixture in the tray. This will add a nice heat and flavor to the dish. Adjust the amount according to your spice preference.
Step 8: Roast the Lamb
Cover the tray with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Roast for about 2 hours, removing the foil halfway through to allow the lamb to develop a nice, golden color.
Step 9: Finish Cooking
Check the lamb after 2 hours; it should be tender and easily pulled apart with a fork. If necessary, roast for an additional 15-30 minutes for a deeper flavor and texture.
Step 10: Serve
Once cooked, remove the tray from the oven. Serve the gnarly lamb madras hot, garnished with fresh herbs of your choice, such as coriander, and enjoy with rice or naan bread.
Notes
Note 1: Lamb Variations
You can use other cuts of lamb for this recipe, such as leg or shanks, depending on your taste preference.
Note 2: Spice Adjustments
Feel free to adjust the spices according to your liking. If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of chili used.
Note 3: Optional Ingredients
Consider adding vegetables like potatoes or bell peppers for extra texture and taste.
Note 4: Storage
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days or frozen for later use. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
Cook techniques
Roasting
Roasting is a cooking method where food is cooked evenly in an oven, resulting in a caramelized exterior and tender interior. This technique is perfect for meats and vegetables.
Traybaking
Traybaking involves cooking all ingredients together on a single tray, allowing the flavors to meld and the cooking time to be minimized. It’s efficient and makes for easy cleanup.
Marinating
Marinating is soaking food in a seasoned liquid before cooking, enhancing its flavor and tenderness. This technique is especially effective for meats and can involve various ingredients such as spices, herbs, and acids.
Layering Flavors
Layering flavors is a technique where different ingredients are added at various stages of cooking to build complexity. This includes starting with aromatic bases and adding spices throughout the cooking process.
Searing
Searing involves cooking the surface of food at a high temperature until a browned crust forms, enhancing flavor and locking in moisture, especially for meats.
FAQ
What is a traybake?
A traybake is a method of cooking where various ingredients are placed on a single tray and cooked together, allowing flavors to combine and reducing cooking time.
Can I substitute lamb with another meat?
Yes, you can substitute lamb with other meats such as chicken or beef, but cooking times may vary depending on the type of meat.
How can I adjust the spice level of the dish?
You can adjust the spice level by increasing or decreasing the amount of spices used, particularly the curry powder and chili flakes.
What type of pan is best for traybaking?
A shallow roasting pan or a baking sheet with a rim is ideal for traybaking as it allows for even cooking and easy handling of ingredients.
How long does it take to marinate lamb?
Marinating lamb for at least 1 hour is recommended, but for best results, marinate it overnight to enhance the flavor and tenderness.
Conclusion
This gnarly lamb madras traybake is a flavorful and comforting dish that marries tender lamb with aromatic spices, perfect for a hearty family meal. Its easy preparation and robust taste make it a standout in any dinner rotation, ideal for both special occasions and casual gatherings.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Lamb Tagine
Combine tender lamb with apricots, almonds, and Moroccan spices for a fragrant and rich dish that’s perfect with couscous.
Chicken Tikka Masala
Swap lamb for chicken and use similar spices to create a creamy and flavorful dish that pairs beautifully with naan or rice.
Vegetable Biryani
For a vegetarian option, make a fragrant biryani with basmati rice, seasonal vegetables, and spices, serving as a lovely side to any meat dish.
Beef Curry
Substitute lamb with beef for a different flavor profile, retaining the warm spices and adding coconut milk for creaminess.
Spicy Lentil Bake
Use lentils and vegetable broth to create a filling and nutritious option that mirrors the flavors of lamb, while keeping it plant-based.