| Prep: 20 mins | Cook: 25 mins | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 520 | 32g | 13g | 31g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 6g | 3g | 30g | 1.2g |
There’s something deeply comforting and unifying about sharing a homemade pizza with loved ones, especially one with a scrumptious twist like the Spiced Lamb Pizza with Nigella Seeds. This dish is more than just a meal—it’s an experience that brings together my love of hearty, flavorful meats and intricate, exotic spices in ways that both comfort and excite the palate.
### A Symphony of Flavors
The combination of ground lamb with aromatic spices like cumin, coriander, and cinnamon is nothing short of magical. These spices infuse the meat with layers of complexity, offering a warm, slightly smoky profile that’s balanced out by the sweetness of the red onion and the tanginess of the diced tomatoes. And then there’s the addition of nigella seeds, which add an unexpected yet delightful crunch along with a subtle hint of bitterness.
The first time I tasted nigella seeds was in a traditional Middle Eastern bread, and their unique, slightly peppery flavor left a lasting impression on me. Including them in this recipe was a natural choice—not only for their taste but for their numerous health benefits. Nigella seeds are rich in antioxidants and have been linked to various health benefits, such as reducing inflammation and improving blood sugar levels.
### The Perfect Fusion
The Spiced Lamb Pizza with Nigella Seeds is a beautiful fusion of different culinary traditions. Growing up in the vast, open spaces of Montana, I was accustomed to hearty meals that filled you up and kept you fueled for long days. But I always had a penchant for exploring new flavors. This recipe is like a culinary journey that takes me from the vast, rugged landscapes of my youth to the bustling, spice-laden markets of the Middle East.
Pairing the lamb with fresh, finely chopped cilantro and a tangy drizzle of lemon juice brightens up the dish, lifting the rich, earthy flavors of the meat and spices. The shredded mozzarella cheese melds everything together in a gooey, luxurious layer and the optional mint garnish adds a refreshing touch that truly rounds out each bite.
#### Healthy and Enjoyable
Aside from its robust flavor profile, this pizza has some notable nutritional perks. Lamb is a great source of high-quality protein and essential vitamins like B12, selenium, and zinc. The Greek yogurt on the side is not only delicious but also adds a boost of probiotics, which are beneficial for gut health.
Serve this pizza with a simple side salad of mixed greens or a light cucumber and mint salad to keep the meal balanced. You could also pair it with dishes like a creamy hummus dip, or perhaps a light, citrusy tabbouleh to continue the Middle Eastern-inspired theme.
In conclusion, the Spiced Lamb Pizza with Nigella Seeds is one of those recipes that feels like a warm hug—comforting, flavorful, and imbued with the rich complexity of spices and textures. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or a gathering with friends, it’s a dish that’s sure to impress and create lasting memories.
For more on the benefits of nigella seeds, check out this [article on Healthline](https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/nigella-seed-benefits).
What You’ll Need
- 1 lb ground lamb
- 2 cups diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- 1 large red onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1 tbsp nigella seeds
- 6 pieces of flatbread or pizza crust
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- Salt to taste
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt (for serving)
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh mint (optional, for garnish)
Method
Step One
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Step Two
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped red onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
Step Three
Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Step Four
Add the ground lamb to the skillet. Cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, about 7-10 minutes.
Step Five
Stir in the diced tomatoes, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, black pepper, cayenne pepper (if using), and salt to taste. Let the mixture simmer for about 10-15 minutes, or until the flavors are well combined and the mixture has thickened slightly.
Step Six
While the lamb mixture is simmering, place the flatbread or pizza crusts on a baking sheet.
Step Seven
Evenly spread the lamb mixture over each piece of flatbread or pizza crust.
Step Eight
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese and nigella seeds evenly over the top of each pizza.
Step Nine
Bake in the preheated oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the edges of the flatbread or pizza crust are crispy.
Step Ten
Remove from the oven and sprinkle with chopped fresh cilantro and lemon juice.
Step Eleven
If desired, garnish with chopped fresh mint. Serve with a side of plain Greek yogurt.
Step Twelve
Enjoy your Spiced Lamb Pizza with Nigella Seeds!
