Herbaceous Algerian Chakhchoukha with Lamb and Chickpeas

Name: Herbaceous Algerian Chakhchoukha with Lamb and Chickpeas
Prep time: 3 h
Cook time: 3 h
Total time: 3 h
Yield: 6
Cuisine: Main Course
Ingredients: 2 lbs lamb shoulder; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 large onion; 4 cloves garlic; 2 tsp ground cumin; 1 tsp ground coriander; 1 tsp paprika; ½ tsp ground cinnamon; Salt and pepper; 2 cups canned chickpeas; 1 bay leaf; 1 quart chicken stock; 2 tbsp tomato paste; 3 tomatoes; 2 tbsp fresh cilantro; 2 tbsp fresh parsley; 1 lemon; 4 flatbreads; 2 tbsp butter

A Hearty Algerian Feast

This traditional Algerian dish features tender lamb, flavorful chickpeas, and a medley of spices, creating a deeply satisfying meal rich in North African flavors.

3 h 30 min
6
Intermediate

Ingredients

For the Lamb Stew

2 lbs lamb shoulder

cut into medium pieces

2 tbsp olive oil

1 large onion

finely chopped

4 cloves garlic

minced

2 tsp ground cumin

1 tsp ground coriander

1 tsp paprika

½ tsp ground cinnamon

Salt and pepper

to taste

For the Chickpeas

2 cups canned chickpeas

drained and rinsed

1 bay leaf

1 quart chicken stock

For the Sauce

2 tbsp tomato paste

3 tomatoes

diced

2 tbsp fresh cilantro

chopped

2 tbsp fresh parsley

chopped

1 lemon

juiced

For the Flatbread Accompaniment

4 flatbreads

warmed

2 tbsp butter

melted

Preparation

Marinating the Lamb

Mix lamb with spices

In a bowl, mix the lamb pieces with cumin, coriander, paprika, cinnamon, salt, and pepper.

Marinate the lamb

Let the lamb marinate for 30 minutes to absorb the flavors.

Brown the lamb

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium-high heat and brown the lamb pieces. Remove and set aside.

Preparing the Base

Sauté onion and garlic

In the same pot, add the chopped onion and garlic; sauté until golden and fragrant.

Pro Tip: Use fresh herbs for enhanced aroma and flavor.

Add tomato paste and tomatoes

Stir in tomato paste and diced tomatoes, letting it cook for about 5 minutes.

Add lamb and stock

Reintroduce the lamb, then add chicken stock and bring to a boil.

Important: Ensure the pot does not run dry by occasionally checking the liquid level.

Cooking Process

Simmering the Stew

Once boiling, reduce heat to low and let it simmer for 1.5 hours until the lamb becomes tender.

Integrating Chickpeas

Add chickpeas and bay leaf, simmering for an additional 30 minutes.

Final Touches

Stir in lemon juice, cilantro, and parsley just before serving for freshness.

Plating & Serving