| Prep: 15 mins | Cook: 90 mins – 120 mins | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 350 | 22g | 8g | 5g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 1g | 1g | 32g | 0.5g |
If you’re looking for a fusion dish that will tantalize your tastebuds and elevate your regular dinner routine, look no further than my Roasted Lamb with Jujubes Recipe. Imbued with the distinct flavors of my Afro-Southern heritage, this recipe is sure to become a fixture on your meals list. And one look at this beautiful dish 
should charm even the pickiest of eaters!
Fusing Traditions
When it comes to creating a recipe, I love blending the warmth of Southern cooking techniques with the spicy and aromatic profiles that West African cuisines offer. The Roasted Lamb with Jujubes Recipe is just that—a fusion of traditions. It reminds me of the comfort dishes that my Nigerian parents would prepare, often suffused with native spices. That same warmth is what I’ve endeavored to capture in this recipe, with the added twist of jujubes, a fruit beloved both in African and Asian cuisines.
Health and Nutritional Perks
Besides the delightful symphony of flavors this recipe provides, it also boasts a wealth of health benefits. Lamb shoulder is a great source of high-quality protein, and the herbs, such as rosemary, don’t only add to the dish’s aromatic allure, but they also bring their own set of health perks. Rosemary, for instance, is known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits.
Jujubes, also known as Chinese dates, are an excellent source of vitamin C and fiber. This fruit is reputed for its anti-anxiety and soothing properties, and it introduces a subtly sweet contrast to the savory lamb. Let’s not forget the olive oil, an essential source of healthy fats that contribute to heart health.
The Perfect Combination
This recipe is not only well-balanced in its flavors but also in its textures. The succulence of the roasted lamb perfectly marries with the soft, slightly chewy bite of the jujubes. It brings to mind traditional dishes like Moroccan Lamb Tagine, albeit with a decidedly Southern and West African flair.
Roasted Lamb with Jujubes Recipe works well as a standalone dish, or it can be paired with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh, crisp salad for a heartier meal. And if you wish to further dial up the fusion experience, try it with a good helping of Southern classics like collard greens or black-eyed peas.
So, infuse your dinner with a bit of Afro-Southern charm. With its succulent flavors, heartwarming roots, and impressive nutritional benefits, this dish is all set to win you over.
What You’ll Need
- 2.5 lbs of boneless lamb shoulder
- 12 fresh jujubes
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon of fresh rosemary, chopped
- 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup of white wine
- 1/2 cup of lamb or chicken stock
Method
Step One
Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). While the oven is heating, season both sides of the lamb shoulder with salt and pepper.
Step Two
Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe roasting pan over medium heat. Add the lamb shoulder to the pan and sear it on all sides until it is nicely browned. This should take about 5-7 minutes on each side.
Step Three
Once the lamb is browned, remove it from the pan and set it aside. In the same pan, add the minced garlic and chopped rosemary, sautéing them until fragrant. It should take about 1-2 minutes.
Step Four
Return the lamb shoulder to the roasting pan. Arrange the fresh jujubes around it. Pour the white wine and lamb or chicken stock over the meat and fruit.
Step Five
Cover the roasting pan with a lid or aluminum foil. Put it in the preheated oven and roast for about 2 hours, or until the lamb is tender and easily pulls apart with a fork.
Step Six
When the lamb is cooked to your liking, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. Serve it warm with the roasted jujubes on the side.
