Rustic Algerian Berkoukes with Harissa and Lamb

A traditional coarse pasta dish infused with North African spices and tender lamb

This heartwarming recipe features Berkoukes, a type of Algerian pasta, paired with spicy harissa and succulent lamb, bringing rich flavors to your table.

3 h
6
Intermediate

Ingredients

For the Lamb Marinade

1 kg lamb

shoulder or shanks, cut into chunks

4 cloves garlic

minced

2 tsp ground cumin

1 tsp ground coriander

1 tsp paprika

2 tbsp olive oil

Salt and black pepper

to taste

For the Berkoukes

2 cups Berkoukes

or substitute with Israeli couscous

1 tbsp olive oil

1 onion

finely chopped

2 carrots

diced

2 tbsp tomato paste

1½ liters stock

chicken or vegetable

1 can chickpeas

drained and rinsed

For the Harissa Sauce

4 tbsp harissa paste

1 tbsp olive oil

Juice of 1 lemon

1 tbsp honey

For Garnishing

Fresh cilantro

chopped

Toasted almond slivers

Preparation

Marinating the Lamb

Combine Marinade

In a large bowl, combine garlic, cumin, coriander, paprika, olive oil, salt, and pepper.

Coat Lamb

Add lamb chunks, ensuring they're evenly coated with the marinade.

Use fresh spices for a more aromatic dish.

Refrigerate Lamb

Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight.

Ensure the lamb is fully marinated before cooking.

Preparing the Berkoukes

Heat Oil

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.

Sauté Vegetables

Add chopped onion and carrots, sautéing until onion is translucent.

Add Tomato Paste

Stir in tomato paste and cook for an additional minute.

Cooking Process

Brown the Lamb

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat, add marinated lamb, and brown on all sides.

Timing: ~10 min. Heat: Medium-high.

Simmer the Stew

Transfer lamb to the pot with the onion and carrot mixture. Pour in stock and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and cover, simmering for 1.5 hours.

Timing: 1.5 h. Heat: Low.

Cook the Berkoukes

Add Berkoukes and chickpeas to the pot, continuing to simmer for another 20 to 30 minutes until pasta is tender.

Timing: 20–30 min.

Plating & Serving

Rustic Algerian Berkoukes with Harissa and Lamb

FaUtensils

Plating & Serving

Serve the Berkoukes in large bowls, topping with spoonfuls of harissa sauce, and garnish with fresh cilantro and toasted almonds.

Sauce Pairings

Harissa Sauce

A spicy and tangy companion

Mint Yogurt Sauce

For a cooling contrast

Garnishes & Accompaniments

Fresh cilantroToasted almond slivers

Perfect Sides

Warm crusty bread

Crisp green salad