Greek-Style Lamb Orzo Stew Recipe
This Greek-Style Lamb Orzo Stew is a hearty, flavorful dish that brings Mediterranean comfort to your table. Tender lamb is slow-cooked with aromatic spices, tomatoes, and herbs, creating a rich, savory base. Orzo pasta absorbs the delicious flavors, while a finishing touch of lemon juice, crumbled feta, and fresh mint adds a burst of freshness. Perfect for cozy dinners, this stew is versatile, easy to prepare, and even better as leftovers. Enjoy a taste of Greece in every bite!
Ingredients:
To Slow Cook:
600 g Lamb steak, cubed
1 Onion, diced
2 Garlic cloves, crushed
2 x 400 g Tinned tomatoes
2 Lamb stock cubes (no need to dissolve!)
3 tsp Dried oregano
2 tsp Dried thyme
1 tsp Fennel seeds
1 tsp Ground cumin
Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper
To Add Later:
400 g Dried orzo
3 Red peppers, sliced
100 ml Boiling water
To Serve:
1 Lemon, juiced
100 g Feta, crumbled
10 g Fresh mint, finely chopped
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Slow Cooker: Preheat your slow cooker to medium.
2. Add Ingredients: Place lamb cubes at the bottom of the cooker. Layer with onion, garlic, tinned tomatoes, lamb stock cubes, oregano, thyme, fennel seeds, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly.
3. Cook Low and Slow: Cover and cook on HIGH for 3.5–4.5 hours or on LOW for 6–8 hours, until the lamb is tender.
4. Incorporate Orzo and Vegetables: Add dried orzo, sliced red peppers, and boiling water. Stir to combine. Cook for another 45 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Finish with Fresh Flavors: Once the orzo is tender, squeeze lemon juice over the dish. Sprinkle with crumbled feta and fresh mint. Serve immediately for a true Greek-inspired meal.
Tips for the Perfect Greek Lamb Orzo Stew:
Lamb Selection: Lamb steak is perfect for slow cooking; it remains tender and flavorful.
Orzo Alternative: Can’t find orzo? Use small dried pasta and cook it separately.
Vegetable Swaps: Try green beans or zucchini for variety.
Reheating Leftovers: Add a splash of water or stock to maintain the creamy texture of orzo when reheating.
Make it Saucy: Prefer a saucier consistency? Stir in extra boiling water or stock at the end.
Storage:
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for 3–4 days.
Freezer: Freeze for up to 4 months. Let flavors meld for even better taste when reheated!
This Greek-Style Lamb Orzo Stew is a hearty and flavorful meal perfect for family dinners or meal prep! Enjoy the tender lamb, aromatic spices, and creamy orzo that transport you straight to the Mediterranean.
