My Recipe Box

Lamb and Barberry Rice Pilaf

A flavorful and aromatic Middle Eastern-inspired dish, featuring tender lamb, sweet barberries, and fragrant spices, all combined with fluffy rice.
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MEDIUM
Prep: 30-40 mins
Cook: 45-60 mins
Serves: 6
Author: SofiRG98

4.4 / 5 (665)


Ingredients

Meat and Poultry
  • Lamb shoulder

    500 grams

Grains
  • Basmati rice

    250 grams

Dried Fruits
  • Barberries

    100 grams

Aromatics
  • Onion

    1 medium

  • Garlic

    3 cloves

Spices
  • Ground cumin

    1 teaspoon

  • Ground coriander

    1 teaspoon

  • Turmeric

    0.5 teaspoon

  • Cayenne pepper

    0.25 teaspoon

  • Salt

    a pinch

  • Black pepper

    a few grinds

Oils
  • Olive oil

    2 tablespoons


Instructions

  • 1
    Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.

    To start, place the saucepan over medium heat and add the olive oil. Allow the oil to warm up before proceeding to the next step. This will help in preventing the ingredients from sticking to the pan.

  • 2
    Add the diced onion and cook until it's translucent.

    Add the diced onion to the warm olive oil and cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion turns translucent and starts to caramelize. This step is crucial as it adds a depth of flavor to the dish.

  • 3
    Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.

    Once the onion is cooked, add the minced garlic and continue cooking for another minute. Stir constantly to prevent the garlic from burning, as it can quickly become bitter.

  • 4
    Add the lamb shoulder and cook until it's browned on all sides.

    Add the lamb shoulder to the saucepan, breaking it up with a spoon if necessary, and cook until it's browned on all sides. This step ensures that the lamb is cooked evenly and adds texture to the dish.

  • 5
    Add the ground cumin, coriander, turmeric, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 1 minute.

    Add the ground spices to the saucepan and stir to combine. Cook for 1 minute, allowing the spices to toast and become fragrant. This will enhance the flavor of the dish.

  • 6
    Add the basmati rice and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly.

    Add the basmati rice to the saucepan and stir to combine with the lamb and spices. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until the rice is well coated with the spice mixture and slightly toasted.

  • 7
    Add 500ml of water and bring to a boil.

    Add 500ml of water to the saucepan and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan with a tight-fitting lid, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the liquid has been absorbed.

  • 8
    Stir in the barberries and cook for an additional 5 minutes.

    Once the rice is cooked, stir in the barberries and continue cooking for an additional 5 minutes. The heat from the rice will help to rehydrate the barberries and distribute their flavor throughout the dish.

  • 9
    Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.

    Once the pilaf is cooked, remove it from the heat and serve hot. Garnish with fresh herbs, such as parsley or cilantro, if desired. This will add a pop of color and freshness to the dish.

Ratings & Reviews

User Ratings

5

435

4

142

3

51

2

14

1

23

Reviews

  • TahmidTheCoder

    I appreciate the attention to detail in this recipe, which aligns with my logical approach to cooking. The use of aromatic spices like cumin, coriander, and turmeric reminds me of traditional Bangladeshi dishes like biryani. The combination of lamb, barberries, and basmati rice is interesting and flavorful. Although it doesn't feature fish or desserts, the pilaf's warm, comforting nature is appealing. The recipe's clarity and step-by-step instructions are helpful, much like the precision I value in coding. Overall, a well-structured recipe that I'd consider making again.

  • AishP88

    I was somewhat disapointed with this recipe, as it includes lamb which I do not eat being a vegetarian. The use of complex spices is intresting though and I appreciate the Middle Eastern inspiration. I think this recipe could be modifed to be vegetarian friendly by substituting the lamb with a plant-based protien source. The addition of barberries is also a nice touch, but I would have liked to see some alternative options for nuts due to my allergy. Overall, I would not cook this recipe as it stands, but I might consider a modified vesion.

  • LingC98

    I was excited to try out this Lamb and Barberry Rice Pilaf recipe, and overall, I'm impressed with the flavors and textures it delivers. As someone who enjoys trying new types of international street food, I appreciated the Middle Eastern inspiration behind this dish. The combination of tender lamb, sweet barberries, and fragrant spices is definitely a winner. However, I did find the dish to be slightly too spicy for my taste, given my mild intolerance to spicy food. Perhaps a slight adjustment to the amount of cayenne pepper used could make it more accessible to a wider range of palates. In terms of preparation, I appreciated the clear steps and relatively manageable cooking time. As a go-getter, I love that this recipe allows for a bit of creativity and flexibility, such as adding fresh herbs for garnish. Overall, I'd definitely recommend this recipe to fellow foodies looking to try something new and exciting - just be prepared to adjust the spice level to your taste!

  • Majo_Madrid78

    This Lamb and Barberry Rice Pilaf recipe reminds me of paella, you know? It has that same Spanish flair but with Middle Eastern spices. I love trying new foods and this one is delicioso! The combination of lamb, barberries, and spices is muy rico. I can imagine serving this at a tapas night with friends. The only thing that might make it better is a side of churros for dessert. I like that it's not too hard to make, but it does take some time. Overall, I would definitely make this again and recommend it to anyone who loves trying new flavors.

  • YaraTech22

    A delightful Middle Eastern masterpiece! As a Halal food enthusiast and gluten-intolerant individual, I appreciated the use of lamb and Basmati rice in this recipe. The addition of barberries added a lovely sweetness and chewiness to the dish. I did substitute the Basmati rice with a gluten-free alternative, which worked seamlessly. The instructions were clear and easy to follow, and the result was a flavorful and aromatic pilaf that was sure to impress. The combination of cumin, coriander, and turmeric was spot on, and I loved the pop of heat from the cayenne pepper. I'd highly recommend this recipe to anyone looking to try a new Middle Eastern dish - just be sure to adjust the ingredients according to your dietary needs!

  • matik99

    Yaaas, this Lamb and Barberry Rice Pilaf is a real game-changer! I'm a meat-lover, and this dish delivers - the lamb is tender and juicy, and the flavors are on point! I love the combination of spices, it's like a party in my mouth! The only thing that would make it better is if it had some pierogies on the side, lol. Seriously though, this recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves Middle Eastern cuisine. One thing to note is that I had to be careful with the ingredients, no shellfish for me, you know! But other than that, this dish is a winner. I'm gonna make it again and crush it, just you wait!

  • TahmidH24

    Yaaas, I low-key loved dis Lamb and Barberry Rice Pilaf recipe! As a biryani fanatic, I was hyped to try dis Middle Eastern-inspired dish. The combo of tender lamb, sweet barberries, and fragrant spices was straight fire! I was a bit worried 'bout the cooking time, but trust me, it's worth the wait. My only gripe is that I had to make sure the ingredients were halal-friendly, but that's a given for me. Overall, I'd def give dis recipe 4 stars - it's a must-try for kebab and biryani lovers like me! Just a heads up, I had to tweak the recipe a bit to avoid any shellfish or seafood, but that's easy peasy.

  • nalani_nz

    I was drawn to this Lamb and Barberry Rice Pilaf recipe for its exotic flavors and aromatic spices, reminiscent of the fragrant hangi my kuia used to prepare for special occasions. As a flexitarian with a deep connection to my Maori heritage, I appreciate the combination of tender lamb, sweet barberries, and fluffy rice, which echoes the traditional flavors of kumara and other native New Zealand ingredients. Although I had to substitute a few ingredients to accommodate my dairy intolerance, the dish turned out beautifully. I particularly enjoyed the process of toasting the spices and watching the rice absorb the flavorful liquid - it felt almost meditative. The addition of barberries added a delightful burst of sweetness and tartness, balancing out the savory flavors of the lamb. If I were to make this recipe again, I might consider adding some native New Zealand herbs like kawakawa or tarata to give it an extra layer of depth and cultural significance. Overall, this recipe is a great addition to my culinary repertoire, and I would highly recommend it to anyone looking to explore the rich flavors of the Middle East with a Maori twist.

  • AstridL99

    I try this recipe. It look interesting, but I not eat lamb. I like seafood. This dish have nice ingredients. I like barberries, they look sweet and pretty. The rice pilaf look easy to make. I think it good for people who like lamb. I give 3 stars. I want try Nordic seafood recipes.

  • krzysio90

    This lamb and barberry rice pilaf recipe offers a nice blend of flavors and textures. The use of barberries adds a unique sweetness that complements the savory lamb. I appreciate the emphasis on using aromatic spices like cumin, coriander, and turmeric, which are commonly found in traditional Polish cuisine, although not typically paired with lamb. If I were to make this recipe, I would consider substituting the lamb with a more locally-sourced and organic alternative, such as free-range beef or mushrooms, to align with my preferences for reducing meat consumption and supporting local farmers. Additionally, I might explore vegetarian options by swapping out the lamb for roasted vegetables or legumes. Overall, a solid 4-star recipe that could be easily adapted to suit my tastes.

  • SofiGM

    ### A Symphony of Flavors: Lamb and Barberry Rice Pilaf Review ### As I wandered through the steps of this recipe, I found myself transported to a world where spices danced and flavors sang in harmony. The lamb and barberry rice pilaf, with its Middle Eastern roots, awakened a sense of wonder within me, a creative soul who craves the beauty of cultural fusion. The aromatic journey began with the gentle sizzle of olive oil, followed by the sweet caramelization of onions and the pungency of garlic. The lamb, like a protagonist, took center stage, its tender essence mingling with the spices - cumin, coriander, turmeric, and cayenne pepper. As I stirred the basmati rice, I felt the excitement of a poet, weaving words into a tapestry of flavors. The barberries, those tiny, tart jewels, added a burst of freshness, a reminder of the vibrant colors and textures found in the markets of Colombia, where arepas and empanadas reign supreme. Though my heart belongs to the comforting familiarity of traditional Colombian cuisine, I appreciate the beauty of this pilaf, a dish that, like my own life, blends diverse influences. As I savored each bite, I pondered the social justice that underlies our relationship with food. How do we honor the farmers who grow these ingredients, the artisans who craft the spices, and the cultures that inspire us? This pilaf, like a canvas of flavors, invites us to reflect on the interconnectedness of our culinary traditions. My mild intolerance to gluten made me cautious, but the basmati rice, a gluten-free delight, allowed me to indulge in this flavorful experience without worry. If I were to offer suggestions, I would recommend exploring variations with gluten-free alternatives, ensuring that everyone can partake in this symphony of flavors. In conclusion, I award this recipe 4 stars, for it has captured my heart with its poetic blend of spices and textures. May it inspire you, dear reader, to embark on your own culinary journey, one that weaves together the threads of tradition, creativity, and social consciousness.

  • YaraH90

    مرحباً! I recently tried the Lamb and Barberry Rice Pilaf recipe and I must say, it was *mashallah* (God has willed it) absolutely delicious! As someone who enjoys traditional Middle Eastern cuisine, I was excited to try this dish and it did not disappoint. The combination of tender lamb, sweet barberries, and fragrant spices was *insha'Allah* (God willing) perfect. I appreciated that the recipe was halal-friendly and did not include any pork or alcohol. The instructions were clear and easy to follow, although I did have to look up the meaning of 'caramelize' (تعني أن تصبح ذهبية اللون). Overall, I would highly recommend this recipe to anyone looking for a flavorful and authentic Middle Eastern dish. The only thing I might suggest is adding some extra spices, such as sumac or paprika, to give it an extra boost of flavor. But overall, *alhamdulillah* (praise be to God), this recipe was a great success and I will definitely be making it again!

  • AishaTheExplorer

    I recently had the pleasure of preparing and savoring the Lamb and Barberry Rice Pilaf recipe, and I must say that it was an exceptional culinary experience. The harmonious blend of tender lamb, sweet barberries, and fragrant spices, all combined with fluffy rice, was truly delightful. As someone who appreciates Middle Eastern cuisine, I was particularly fond of the aromatic flavors and textures that this dish embodied. The use of halal lamb was also a significant consideration for me, and I was pleased to see that this recipe accommodated my dietary requirements. The instructions were clear and easy to follow, and the preparation time was reasonable. Overall, I would highly recommend this recipe to anyone who enjoys exploring the flavors of the Middle East. The only minor consideration would be to ensure that the barberries are sourced from a nut-free facility, given my allergy. However, I did not find this to be a concern in this instance.