Spiced Lamb and Potato Stew (Djaj Bil-Batata)

Djaj Bil-Batata is a traditional Libyan stew that combines spiced lamb with potatoes, creating a hearty and flavorful dish. This recipe is perfect for a comforting family meal or for entertaining guests with a taste of authentic Libyan cuisine.

Spiced Lamb and Potato Stew (Djaj Bil-Batata)

Ingredients

  • 500g lamb, cut into cubes
  • 4 large potatoes, peeled and diced
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 tomatoes, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
  • 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until softened.
  2. Add the cubed lamb to the pot and brown on all sides.
  3. Stir in the ground cumin, coriander, turmeric, cinnamon, and cayenne pepper, coating the lamb evenly with the spices.
  4. Add the diced potatoes and chopped tomatoes to the pot, then pour in the chicken or vegetable broth.
  5. Season with salt and pepper, then bring the stew to a boil. Reduce the heat, cover the pot, and simmer for about 1 hour, or until the lamb is tender and the potatoes are cooked through.
  6. Adjust the seasoning if needed, then serve the Djaj Bil-Batata hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.

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
20g
Fat
18g

Supplies

Large pot Cutting board Knife Wooden spoon

Tools

Cooking thermometer Ladle

Serving suggestions

Serve Djaj Bil-Batata with warm flatbread or over a bed of couscous for a complete meal.

Tips & tricks

For an extra kick of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the stew.

Cost

$15