Pomegranate-Marinated Lamb with Spices and Couscous

Ingredients for Pomegranate-Marinated Lamb with Spices and Couscous

• 80g pomegranate molasses*

• 4 garlic cloves, coarsely chopped

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 tablespoon ground ginger

• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon

• 2 teaspoons ground cumin, divided

• 1 1/2 teaspoons paprika

• 1/2 teaspoons salt

• 1/4 teaspoons pepper

• 900g lamb shoulder blade chops, cut into 3/4-inch square pieces, bones reserved

• 300ml water, divided

• 475ml low-salt chicken broth

• 1 275g box plain couscous

• 2 tablespoons (1/4 stick) unsalted butter

• 3/4 cup pomegranate seeds

• 3 tablespoons torn basil leaves

How to make Pomegranate-Marinated Lamb with Spices and Couscous

Whisk pomegranate molasses, coarsely chopped garlic, olive oil, ground ginger, cinnamon, 1 3/4 teaspoons cumin, paprika, 1/2 teaspoons salt, and 1/4 teaspoons pepper in large bowl. Add lamb and toss to coat. Cover and marinate 2 hours at room temperature, or up to 2 days in the refrigerator. Drain, reserving marinade. Pat lamb dry.

Heat heavy large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Working in batches, add meat and bones, if using, and cook until browned, turning occasionally, about 2 minutes total per batch. Return all lamb and bones to skillet. Add reserved marinade and 60ml water. Cover with lid slightly ajar and simmer over medium-low heat until meat is tender, about 8 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.

Meanwhile, bring remaining 240ml water and chicken broth to boil in medium saucepan over medium-high heat. Add couscous and remaining 1/4 teaspoons cumin. Remove saucepan from heat and let stand covered 5 minutes. Fluff couscous with fork, then stir in butter until melted. Divide couscous among plates and top with lamb, pomegranate seeds, and basil leaves, spooning remaining sauce over lamb.

A thick pomegranate syrup; available at some supermarkets, at Middle Eastern markets, and from adrianascaravan.com.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.