Embark on a culinary journey to the heart of Albanian cuisine with our tantalizing lamb and okra stew recipe. This delectable dish, known as "Speca me Mish dhe Bamje," is a harmonious blend of succulent lamb, tender okra, and an array of aromatic spices. Originating from the vibrant region of Korça, this traditional stew captivates the senses with its rich flavors and heartwarming aroma.
Our comprehensive guide provides step-by-step instructions to ensure your Speca me Mish dhe Bamje turns out perfectly. From selecting the freshest ingredients to mastering the art of slow cooking, we'll guide you through the process of creating this Albanian masterpiece. Along with the main recipe, we've also included variations to cater to different dietary preferences and taste buds. Whether you prefer a spicy kick or a milder flavor profile, our alternative recipes offer exciting options to suit your palate.
For those seeking a vegetarian alternative, our Bamje me Domate dhe Qepë recipe offers a delightful combination of okra, tomatoes, and onions, simmered in a flavorful sauce. And if you're looking for a quick and easy weeknight meal, our Bamje me Salcë Kosi recipe utilizes frozen okra and canned tomatoes, making it a convenient option without compromising on taste.
Prepare to indulge in the culinary delights of Albania with our diverse collection of lamb and okra stew recipes. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a novice in the kitchen, our detailed instructions and helpful tips will guide you towards creating an authentic and unforgettable Albanian dining experience.
ALBANIAN LAMB AND OKRA STEW
September sees the start of the season of Okra and yes, it can be a slimy gooey vegetable if not handled right! This Albanian Lamb and Okra Stew is really quick to make, the smell is amazing and has a good balance of soft Okra but not gooey. The key to this Okra stew is not to pierce any holes in the Okra as this prevents them from going too slimy. Before you start this recipe you need to decide if you will use homemade stock or store brought. To make homemade stock it is best to use lamb chops or shanks.
Provided by My Albanian Food
Categories European
Time 35m
Yield 2 serving(s)
Number Of Ingredients 9
Steps:
- Boil the lamb on a high heat in water (with a touch of salt) for 2 hours. Drain the water into a jug through a sieve to separate the meat and stock ready for the recipe.
- Cut just the tip of the stalks off the top of the Okra, ensuring that no holes appear. Wash them in cold water (removing any dirt), pat dry straight away and then lay them spaced out on a baking tray.
- Place in a pre-heated oven at 150 degrees for 10 minutes.
- While the Okra is baking, fry the onions in some olive oil for a few minutes then add the lamb and brown.
- Add the garlic, tomato puree, salt, pepper and then half of the stock. Mix well and simmer for a couple of minutes.
- Lastly, remove the Okra from the oven and add them straight into the pan, including the rest of the stock. Place the lid on and simmer for 20 minutes.
- For the best results, do not lift the lid until the time is up then remove it from the heat, leaving it to stand for a couple of minutes before serving.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 685.1, Fat 43.7, SaturatedFat 16.2, Cholesterol 195.8, Sodium 2489.7, Carbohydrate 16.7, Fiber 5.4, Sugar 4.6, Protein 55.6
BAMYA ( LAMB OR BEEF AND OKRA STEW)
Make and share this Bamya ( Lamb or Beef and Okra Stew) recipe from Food.com.
Provided by LikeItLoveIt
Categories Stew
Time 1h20m
Yield 4 serving(s)
Number Of Ingredients 14
Steps:
- Okra must be cooked so that its slimy texture is eliminated.
- The Greeks have the best technique for achieving this.
- Trim the conical tops with a sharp knife, then soak the okra in red wine-viegar (Khall) for 30 minutes, allowing 1/2 cup vinegar per pound.
- Drain, rinse and dry the okra and proceed with the recipe.
- This dish is popular throughout the Middle East and can be prepared with lamb or beef.
- Serve with rice.
- Preheat an oven to 325 F (165 C).
- In a large frying pan over medium-high heat, warm 4 tablespoons of the butter or oil.
- Working in batches, add the meat and fry, turning, until browned on all sides, about 10 minutes.
- Using a slotted spoon transfer to a baking dish or stew pot.
- Add the onions to the fat remaining in the frying pan and saute over medium heat until tender and translucent, 8-10 minutes.
- Add the garlic, cumin, coriander, tomatoes, tomato paste, the 1 cup stock and mint (if using).
- Stir well.
- Pour over the meat and season to taste with salt and pepper.
- Cover and bake until all the liquid is absorbed, about 1 1/2 hours.
- Taste and adjust the seasonings.
- Meanwhile, prepare the okra as directed in the note above.
- In a saute pan over medium heat, warm the remaining 2 tablespoons butter or oil Add the okra and saute for 3 mins, stirring gently.
- Remove the stew from the oven and arrange the okra on top in a spoke pattern.
- Sprinkle the lemon juice evenly over the surface.
- Re-cover the dish and return it to the oven.
- Bake for 35 minutes longer.
- Add stock or water if the mixture seems too dry.
- Serve the"BAMIA" stew piping hot.
MIDDLE EASTERN LAMB AND OKRA STEW (BAMIA STEW)
'Bamia' in Arabic means 'Okra'. This is an old Middle-Eastern recipe very popular throughout, served with rice.
Provided by AaliyahsAaronsMum
Categories Stew
Time 2h45m
Yield 4-6 serving(s)
Number Of Ingredients 11
Steps:
- Trim the baby okras and wash in cold water and then place in a colander to drain.
- In a large saucepan, heat the oil or butter and add in the meat and brown on all side.
- Add the crushed garlic and chopped onions to the meat and saute till brown.
- Add in the chopped tomatoes, stirring in till the tomatoes are all broken down and soft, for about 10-15 minutes.
- Add in all the spices and salt and give it a good mix.
- Add enough water to cover the meat (about 7-8 cups) and stir to combine well.
- Add in the trimmed okras and bring to boil.
- Cover the pan with a lid and reduce the heat to low and simmer for 2 hours, until the meat is tender (the sauce will thicken as it cooks).
- Lastly, pour in the lemon juice and add in the chopped coriander and carefully stir once or twice (careful not to mash the okras) and gently simmer for another 5 minutes.
- Remove from heat and serve with rice.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 502.5, Fat 35.9, SaturatedFat 11.4, Cholesterol 72, Sodium 82.2, Carbohydrate 27.1, Fiber 7.9, Sugar 9.7, Protein 22.3
Tips:
- Choose the right lamb: Select a lamb shoulder or leg roast for a tender and flavorful stew. If you prefer a milder flavor, opt for lamb loin or sirloin.
- Brown the lamb: Browning the lamb before stewing adds depth of flavor and color to the dish. Make sure to sear the lamb in a hot pan until it's golden brown on all sides.
- Use a good quality olive oil: Albanian cuisine is known for its use of high-quality olive oil. Choose an extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor.
- Don't skimp on the spices: Albanian cuisine is known for its bold and flavorful spices. Don't be afraid to experiment with different combinations of spices, such as paprika, cumin, coriander, and red pepper flakes.
- Simmer the stew slowly: The key to a tender and flavorful stew is to simmer it slowly. Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for at least 1 hour, or until the lamb is fall-off-the-bone tender.
- Serve with traditional Albanian accompaniments: Albanian lamb and okra stew is traditionally served with rice, yogurt, and a side of fresh vegetables. For a more authentic experience, try making your own homemade yogurt and flatbread.
Conclusion:
Albanian lamb and okra stew is a delicious and hearty dish that is perfect for a special occasion or a weeknight meal. The tender lamb, flavorful spices, and fresh okra make this a dish that everyone will enjoy. So next time you're looking for a new stew recipe to try, give Albanian lamb and okra stew a try. You won't be disappointed!
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