Djaj Mqualli (spicy Lamb Tagine)

Djaj Mqualli is a traditional Libyan dish featuring tender lamb cooked in a flavorful and spicy sauce. This dish is perfect for those who enjoy a bit of heat in their meals.

Djaj Mqualli (spicy Lamb Tagine)

Ingredients

  • 1 kg lamb, cut into pieces
  • 2 onions, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 teaspoons ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon saffron threads
  • 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
  • 1/4 cup chopped parsley
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 1 preserved lemon, cut into quarters
  • Green olives for garnish

Instructions

  1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onions and garlic, and cook until softened.
  2. Add the lamb pieces to the pot and brown on all sides.
  3. Stir in the cumin, ginger, cinnamon, cayenne pepper, saffron, cilantro, and parsley. Season with salt and pepper.
  4. Pour in the water and add the preserved lemon quarters.
  5. Cover the pot and simmer for 1 hour, or until the lamb is tender.
  6. Garnish with green olives before serving.

Cooking & Preparation

Preparation time:
20 minutes
Cooking time:
1 hour
Total time:
1 hour
Cooking method
Stovetop

Nutritional facts per 1 serving

Calories
350 per serving
Protein
25g
Carbohydrates
15g
Fat
20g

Supplies

Large pot Cooking spoon Knife Cutting board

Tools

Cooking pot Cooking spoon Knife Cutting board

Serving suggestions

Serve the Djaj Mqualli with couscous or crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce.

Tips & tricks

For an extra kick of heat, add more cayenne pepper to the dish.

Cost

$20