Artichokes, Lamb, and Orzo Avgolemono Recipe
Prepare to embark on a culinary journey with this tantalizing Artichokes, Lamb, and Orzo Avgolemono recipe, sourced from lovewithrecipes.com. Bursting with Mediterranean flavors and hearty ingredients, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your repertoire. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or entertaining guests, it combines tender lamb, savory artichokes, and comforting orzo pasta in a luscious Avgolemono sauce that will leave your taste buds singing with delight. With a prep time of just 20 minutes and a total cooking time of 1 hour, you can whip up this impressive meal in no time, making it ideal for busy weeknights when you crave something satisfying and flavorful. Let’s dive into the details of this delectable recipe, step by step.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Olive oil | 2 tbsp |
| Boneless lean lamb | 1 lb |
| Onion | 1 |
| Garlic | 3 cloves |
| White wine | 3/4 cup |
| Chicken broth | 1 1/2 cups |
| Fresh oregano | 1 tbsp |
| Dried oregano | 1 tsp |
| Lemon, rind of | 1 |
| Salt | To taste |
| Pepper | To taste |
| Artichokes | 8 |
| Artichoke hearts | 1 can |
| Orzo pasta | 2 cups |
| Egg | 1 |
| Lemon juice | 1/2 cup |
| Cornstarch | 1 tbsp |
| Chicken broth | 1/2 cup |
| Fresh parsley (optional) | For garnish |
Instructions:
-
Prepare the Lamb Mixture:
- In a Dutch oven or large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the boneless lean lamb, diced onion, and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté until the onion is tender and the lamb is browned.
- Drain any excess fat from the skillet and return the lamb mixture to the pan.
-
Add Flavorful Ingredients:
- Pour in 3/4 cup of white wine or chicken broth to deglaze the pan, stirring to incorporate any browned bits.
- Sprinkle in fresh oregano, dried oregano, and grated lemon peel for a burst of aromatic flavor.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, then bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
-
Simmer the Lamb:
- Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let the lamb mixture simmer for approximately 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the meat to become tender.
-
Incorporate Artichokes:
- Add fresh or canned artichokes (drained) to the lamb mixture, stirring to combine.
- Continue to simmer the mixture for an additional 10 minutes, or until the artichokes are tender and infused with the savory flavors of the dish.
-
Cook the Orzo Pasta:
- Meanwhile, in a large saucepan or pasta pot, bring 3 quarts of water to a rapid boil.
- Add the orzo pasta to the boiling water, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Cook the pasta for 5-8 minutes, or until it is al dente and cooked to perfection.
- Drain the cooked orzo pasta and return it to the warm saucepan, keeping it covered to retain heat.
-
Prepare the Avgolemono Sauce:
- In a small mixing bowl, whisk together one egg, freshly squeezed lemon juice, cornstarch, and 1/2 cup of warm chicken broth until smooth and well combined.
-
Combine Lamb and Avgolemono Sauce:
- Pour the prepared Avgolemono sauce into the lamb and artichoke mixture, stirring continuously to incorporate.
- Cook and stir the mixture over medium heat for approximately 1 minute, or until the sauce begins to thicken and bubble.
-
Final Touches:
- Continue to cook and stir the lamb mixture for an additional 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to reach the desired consistency.
- Serve the flavorful lamb mixture over the hot cooked orzo pasta, garnishing with fresh parsley for a vibrant finish.
Indulge in the rich and satisfying flavors of this Artichokes, Lamb, and Orzo Avgolemono dish, where every bite is a symphony of Mediterranean-inspired goodness. Whether enjoyed as a comforting family meal or showcased as the centerpiece of a dinner party, this recipe is sure to impress with its tantalizing taste and elegant presentation. Embrace the culinary magic of Greece and savor the warmth and hospitality of Mediterranean cuisine with each delightful forkful. Bon appétit! 🍽️🌿🍋
