Whether it’s getting cooler outside, or too hot to light the stove, it’s a good time to include some one pot stews and soups like this Moroccan Grass Fed Lamb and Chickpea Stew
Homemade stew doesn’t have to mean slaving over the stovetop for hours. This comes together in about 30 minutes, and can even be pressure cooked in the Instant Pot for 5 minutes, allowing the pressure to release naturally
There are some spices with anti-inflammatory properties, like harissa, and ginger, balanced with sweet vegetables such as Vidalia onion, and carrots, plus a few prunes
If grass fed ground lamb is not available, you can use ground turkey, beef, or chicken, preferably organic and pasture raised
Why should I use grass fed meat?
Grass fed lamb is not only higher omega 3 fats and protein, it is lower in total fat compared to conventionally raised lamb
What’s better for us, is better for the animal
Lamb are ruminants meant to forage on a natural diet in a pasture of grass or hay, not high grain and other diets like corn and soy. The four compartment stomach has microbes and enzymes to break down and digest the fibers in grass. Grains digest more quickly, but cause a lot of problems with intestinal flora including ulcers and liver disease, making the animals quite sick
What’s better for us, is also better for the environment
Sustainable agricultural practices support biodiversity of soil and plants, while feed lot farming decimates the land, confining the animals to small areas, thus often requiring antibiotics to avoid disease from poor sanitation
Does all natural mean grass fed?
According to the FDA, natural means there are no artificial flavors or colors added, but does not ensure grass fed
Where can I find grass fed meat?
Supermarkets and local farmers are a good source for grass fed meats, plus there are lots of options in online markets and big box stores with competitive pricing
What are the Health Benefits of Eating Grass Fed Lamb?
Ground grass-fed lamb is a nutritional powerhouse that offers a remarkable array of health benefits. Rich in high-quality complete protein, it provides all essential amino acids necessary for muscle growth and tissue repair, amino acids to make immunoglobulins to support healthy immune function, and amino acids needed to make enzymes for the many reactions in our body. Unlike grain-fed alternatives, grass-fed lamb boasts a superior fatty acid profile, with significantly higher levels of conjugated linoleic acid (CLA), a naturally occurring fat linked to reduced body fat, improved insulin sensitivity, and potential anti-cancer properties. It also delivers a more favorable omega-3 to omega-6 ratio, helping to combat chronic inflammation, which is associated with heart disease, diabetes, certain cancers, and autoimmune conditions like asthma. The saturated fat is lower compared to conventionally grown lamb. Ground lamb is a significant source of heme iron, the most bioavailable form, making it particularly valuable for preventing and addressing iron-deficiency anemia. It’s also an good source of zinc, which supports wound healing, testosterone production, and robust immune defense. All animal proteins, lamb included, are rich in B vitamins, particularly B12 and niacin which play critical roles in neurological health, energy metabolism, and red blood cell formation. Additionally, grass-fed lamb contains notable amounts of selenium, a potent antioxidant mineral that protects cells from oxidative stress. With its rich, savory flavor and dense micronutrient content, ground grass-fed lamb is a truly functional food that nourishes the body on multiple levels.
This recipe uses grass fed ground lamb. I wait for it to go on sale, then stock up.
Ground meats are a go-to in my home because they are affordable, convenient, defrost quickly, are versatile, and can be transformed into many dishes.
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Moroccan Grass Fed Lamb Chickpea Stew
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp good olive oil
- 1 large sweet onion diced
- 8 cloves garlic chopped
- 1 tbsp ground cumin
- 1/4 tsp hot smoked paprika
- 1/4 tsp cinnamon
- 2 tbsp harissa
- 1 tbsp fresh grated ginger
- 1 cup fresh cilantro leaves
- 2 carrots sliced
- 1 # ground lamb
- 28 oz can diced tomatoes
- 3 pitted prunes mashed
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 15 oz can garbanzo beans drained
- 1/2 cup dry white wine
- Zest from one lemon
- Optional: Tzatziki or Raita sauce as garnish
Instructions
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In a medium pot, over medium heat, saute onion, garlic, cumin, paprika, cinnamon, harissa, ginger, cilantro, and carrots in oil, stirring occasionally, for 5 minutes
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Add lamb, breaking up into bite size pieces, and incorporate into onion mixture
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Add tomatoes, prunes, salt, garbanzo beans, wine, and lemon zest; stir to combine
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Cook covered for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, then ladle into bowls
Recipe Notes
*Harissa is a spicy Middle Eastern chili paste found in most supermarkets in the condiment aisle
Optional: Serve stew with tzatziki or raita sauce and additional harissa for garnish
You can also make this in an Instant Pot by pressure cooking for 5 minutes, and allowing pressure to release naturally
