Description
Juicy spiced lamb served over fragrant rice with bold Middle Eastern flavors—this satisfying dish is perfect for lunch bowls, meal prep, or a comforting dinner.
Ingredients
For the Lamb:
1 lb ground lamb (or finely chopped lamb shoulder)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon ground coriander
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon turmeric
1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
Salt and pepper to taste
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 small onion, finely chopped
Juice of 1/2 lemon
For the Yellow Rice:
1 cup long-grain basmati rice
2 tablespoons butter
1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
2 cups chicken broth (or water + bouillon)
Salt to taste
For the White Sauce:
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup Greek yogurt or sour cream
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon white vinegar
1 garlic clove, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: chopped parsley or dill
Optional Toppings:
Shredded lettuce
Diced tomatoes
Hot sauce
Sliced cucumbers or pickles
Instructions
Cook the Rice: In a pot, melt butter. Add turmeric and cumin, stir until fragrant. Add rice and stir to coat. Pour in broth, bring to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15–18 minutes or until fluffy. Set aside.
Cook the Lamb: Heat olive oil in a skillet. Add onions and garlic, sauté until soft. Add ground lamb, cook until browned. Add cumin, coriander, paprika, turmeric, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Cook until lamb is fully cooked and well-seasoned. Finish with lemon juice.
Make the White Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, yogurt, lemon juice, vinegar, garlic, salt, and pepper. Adjust to taste.
Assemble: On each plate, layer yellow rice, lamb, and toppings. Drizzle with white sauce and hot sauce if desired. Serve warm.
Notes
Use ground beef or chicken as a substitute for lamb if preferred.
Add a pinch of cayenne for more heat in the meat.
Great for meal prep — keep rice, meat, and sauce stored separately for best freshness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern / Mediterranean