| Prep: 20 mins | Cook: 1 hr 30 mins | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 450 | 30g | 10g | 12g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 5g | 3g | 35g | 1.5g |
The first time I created Mexican Oregano Spiced Lamb, I knew I had stumbled upon something special. As someone who’s grown up with the abundant seafood and earthy flavors of the Pacific Northwest while also being deeply influenced by the rich culinary traditions of Japan, I find that combining the vibrant, bold elements of Mexican cuisine brings a fresh twist to my culinary repertoire. The interplay of spices and the savory essence of lamb makes this recipe a sensory delight.
A Culinary Fusion
What I adore about Mexican Oregano Spiced Lamb is the way it brings together ingredients that are robust yet harmoniously balanced. Mexican oregano, distinct from its Mediterranean cousin, adds a woody and citrusy undertone that pairs beautifully with the richness of the lamb. The interplay of cumin and smoked paprika imparts a depth of flavor reminiscent of both Middle Eastern and Latin cuisines, offering a truly global experience with each bite.
Health Benefits Worth Noting
Beyond its tantalizing flavor profile, this dish also comes with several health benefits. The lamb is a good source of high-quality protein and essential vitamins, including B vitamins and zinc, which are crucial for muscle development and immune function. The use of olive oil not only enhances the taste but also provides healthy fats that are essential for heart health. Adding green olives offers a dose of antioxidants and healthy fats, while fresh cilantro brings a host of vitamins including A, K, and C.
If you’re someone who enjoys dishes like Moroccan Lamb Tagine or even a classic Beef Stew with a twist, this Mexican Oregano Spiced Lamb will fit right into your cooking wheelhouse. Serve it with small flour tortillas and avocado slices for a taco-inspired meal, or simply enjoy it with a side of your favorite steamed or roasted vegetables. This dish is versatile enough to pair with a variety of sides, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Another reason I cherish this recipe is its simplicity and ease of preparation. Despite the complexity of flavors, the cooking process is straightforward, making it accessible even for cooking novices. If you’re a fan of hearty, flavorful dishes that offer both comfort and excitement, Mexican Oregano Spiced Lamb will not disappoint.
For more culinary explorations, you might enjoy delving into the unique spices and herbs that define Mexican dishes. Learn more about them at Mexican Food Journal or get inspiration for other lamb recipes at Simply Recipes.
What You’ll Need
- 3 lbs boneless leg of lamb, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 1/2 tsp dried Mexican oregano
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
- 1 1/2 cups diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1/2 cup green olives, sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Juice of 1 lime
- 12 small flour tortillas (optional)
- Avocado slices for serving (optional)
Method
Step One
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the cubed lamb and brown on all sides. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Remove the lamb from the pot and set it aside.
Step Two
In the same pot, add the chopped onion and cook until it becomes translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Step Three
Stir in the ground cumin, smoked paprika, dried Mexican oregano, and cayenne pepper. Cook for another 1-2 minutes to toast the spices.
Step Four
Add the browned lamb back into the pot. Pour in the diced tomatoes and beef broth. Stir to combine all the ingredients, making sure to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
Step Five
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer, covered, for about 1 1/2 to 2 hours, or until the lamb is tender.
Step Six
Once the lamb is tender, stir in the sliced green olives and allow the stew to simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes, uncovered. Add salt and pepper to taste.
Step Seven
Just before serving, stir in the chopped cilantro and the juice of one lime.
Step Eight
Serve the Mexican Oregano Spiced Lamb with warm flour tortillas and avocado slices, if desired. Enjoy!
