Keleya Zaara (Tunisian Lamb with Saffron)

Keleya Zaara (Tunisian Lamb with Saffron) is a traditional Tunisian recipe for a classic stew of lamb and onions in a sauce flavoured with saffron and parsley that's served with lemon wedges and rice or couscous. The full recipe is presented here and I hope you enjoy this classic Tunisian version of: Tunisian Lamb with Saffron (Keleya Zaara).

prep time

20 minutes

cook time

40 minutes

Total Time:

60 minutes

Serves:

Rating:

Tags : Spice Recipes Lamb Recipes Tunisia Recipes

Also known as Klaya Zaâra (قلاية تونسية in Arabic), this is a classic lamb dish from Tunisia.

Ingredients:

4 tbsp vegetable oil
700g lamb stewing meat, cubed
1/4 tsp saffron
1 large onion, chopped
250ml water
2 tbsp freshly-chopped parsley
1 tbsp butter
1 lemon, cut into wedges
salt and black pepper, to taste

Method:

Place a flame-proof casserole dish on medium heat, add the vegetable oil and when hot add the lamb. Cook, stirring frequently, until the lamb is nicely browned (about 5 minutes) then add the saffron and season with salt and black pepper.

Add the onion (reserve 3 tbsp) and stir to combine before adding the water. Bring to a boil then reduce to a simmer, cover and cook until the lamb i tender (about 15 minutes).

Uncover the pan, whisk in the butter and cook for a further 10 minutes so the sauce reduces. Adjust the seasonings and spoon the stew into into a serving bowl. Garnish with the reserved onions, parsley and lemon wedges. Serve with flavoured rice or fruited couscous.