Editorial sample recipeSomaliintermediateGluten-FreeDairy-FreeHalal

Somali Cardamom Lamb Stew With Green Cabbage

Name: Somali Cardamom Lamb Stew With Green Cabbage
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Somali
Ingredients: 1.5 lb boneless lamb shoulder, trimmed and cut into 1-inch cubes; 0.5 head green cabbage, coarsely chopped; 1 large yellow onion, diced; 4 clove garlic, minced; 1.5 tbsp xawaash spice blend; 1 cup crushed canned tomatoes; 2 cup halal beef broth; 2 tbsp olive oil

A heartening Somali home-style braise of tender lamb shoulder simmered in a warm xawaash spice broth with savory cabbage.

Prep: 15 min
Cook: 50 min
Total: 65 min

Technique to learn

Layered Braising

Browning meat first to build deep pan fond before simmering with vegetables at the very end to preserve fresh texture.

Instructions

Step 1: Heat olive oil in a heavy Dutch oven over medium-high heat until shimmering.
Step 2: Season the lamb cubes evenly with salt and half of the xawaash spice blend.
Step 3: Sear the lamb cubes in batches until nicely browned on all sides, about 6 minutes, then transfer to a plate.

Step 4: Add the diced yellow onion and minced garlic to the pot, cooking until softened, about 4 minutes.

Step 5: Stir in the remaining xawaash, crushed tomatoes, beef broth, and browned lamb; bring to a boil, then cover and simmer on low for 35 minutes.

Step 6: Fold in the chopped green cabbage and simmer uncovered for 10 minutes until the cabbage is tender and the sauce thickens slightly before serving.

Cooking tips

Cut cabbage into medium wedges or coarse shreds so it holds texture during the final braise.
Xawaash is a classic Somali blend of cumin, coriander, cardamom, cinnamon, and black pepper.
Serve with warm flatbread or steamed rice to soak up the aromatic broth.
Original home-cooking adaptation inspired by Somali; regional versions vary.
Use halal-certified meat, poultry, stock, sauces, cheese and other processed ingredients. Check labels and avoid cross-contamination. Recipe screening is not halal certification.

Sign in to save this recipe, plan it, and log it when you cook it.

Sign in