How long can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Can I make this ahead?

Yes, the flavors deepen if made a day in advance and refrigerated.

Can I substitute lamb with another meat?

Yes, beef or chicken can be used, but adjust cooking time accordingly.

Is there a way to reduce the spice level?

Yes, reduce the amount of cayenne pepper in the Berbere Mix.

Can I freeze the stew?

Absolutely, freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Somali Suqaar Lamb Stew with Spicy Berbere

Name: Somali Suqaar Lamb Stew with Spicy Berbere
Prep time: 2 h
Cook time: 2 h
Total time: 2 h
Yield: 6
Cuisine: Main Course
Ingredients: 2 lbs lamb shoulder; 3 tbsp olive oil; 2 large onions; 3 cloves garlic; 2 cups tomatoes; 1 tbsp paprika; 1 tbsp cayenne pepper; 1 tsp ground ginger; 1 tsp ground coriander; 1 tsp ground cumin; 1 tsp fenugreek seeds; 3 cups beef stock; 2 potatoes; 1 carrot; Salt and pepper; 1/4 cup fresh cilantro; Lemon wedges

A Flavorful Taste of Somali Cuisine

Discover the robust and aromatic delights of this Somali Suqaar Lamb Stew, spiced with rich Berbere for a warming, exotic meal.

2 h 30 min
6
Intermediate

Ingredients

For the Lamb Stew

2 lbs lamb shoulder

cut into 1-inch cubes

3 tbsp olive oil

2 large onions

diced

3 cloves garlic

minced

2 cups tomatoes

diced

For the Spicy Berbere Mix

1 tbsp paprika

1 tbsp cayenne pepper

1 tsp ground ginger

1 tsp ground coriander

1 tsp ground cumin

1 tsp fenugreek seeds

For the Broth

3 cups beef stock

2 potatoes

peeled and cubed

1 carrot

sliced

Salt and pepper

to taste

For the Garnish

1/4 cup fresh cilantro

chopped

Lemon wedges

Preparation

Marinating the Lamb

Mix Berbere

Combine all ingredients for the Spicy Berbere Mix in a small bowl.

Prepare the Berbere Mix in bulk to use in other dishes like roasted vegetables or chicken.

Rub Lamb

Rub the lamb cubes with the mixture.

Chill Lamb

Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight.

Marinate overnight for deeper flavors.

Preparing the Stew

Heat Oil

Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.

Do not skip marinating the lamb; it's essential for depth of flavor.

Sauté Aromatics

Add onions and garlic; sauté until onions are translucent.

Cook Tomatoes

Stir in tomatoes and cook until they begin to break down.

Cooking Process

Browning the Lamb

Sear the marinated lamb pieces on all sides in the pot.

Use medium-high heat to get a good sear.

Building the Stew

Add the beef stock, potatoes, and carrot to the pot.

Simmering to Perfection

Reduce heat and let simmer for 1.5 hours until lamb is tender and stew thickens.

Simmer on low heat.

Plating & Serving