Spicy Lamb Ragu is a rich and flavorful Italian dish made with slow-cooked lamb, aromatic herbs, spices, and tomato sauce. Here’s a description of Spicy Lamb Ragu:
Ingredients: The main ingredients for Spicy Lamb Ragu include lamb shoulder or leg, onions, garlic, carrots, celery, canned tomatoes or tomato puree, red wine, beef or vegetable broth, herbs (such as rosemary, thyme, and bay leaves), spices (such as chili flakes or paprika), salt, pepper, and olive oil.
Preparation: The lamb is cut into cubes or chunks and seasoned with salt and pepper. The onions, garlic, carrots, and celery are finely chopped.
Searing the lamb: In a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, olive oil is heated over medium-high heat. The seasoned lamb is added and seared on all sides until browned. This step helps develop rich flavors and adds depth to the ragu.
Cooking the vegetables and spices: The chopped onions, garlic, carrots, and celery are added to the pot with the seared lamb. They are cooked until softened and slightly caramelized. Spices like chili flakes or paprika are added to enhance the spiciness of the ragu.
Adding liquid and simmering: Red wine is added to the pot to deglaze, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. This adds depth and richness to the ragu. Canned tomatoes or tomato puree and beef or vegetable broth are added, along with fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, and bay leaves. The mixture is brought to a simmer.
Slow-cooking: The pot is covered, and the ragu is simmered over low heat for a few hours, allowing the flavors to meld together and the lamb to become tender. The longer the ragu simmers, the more flavorful it becomes.
Adjusting the seasoning: The ragu is tasted and seasoned with additional salt, pepper, or spices if needed. The consistency can be adjusted by adding more broth or simmering uncovered to reduce the liquid.
Serving: Spicy Lamb Ragu is typically served over cooked pasta, such as tagliatelle or pappardelle. It can also be served with polenta, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread. Garnish with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs, such as parsley or basil, for added flavor.
Spicy Lamb Ragu is a hearty and comforting dish, perfect for colder months. The slow-cooked lamb develops a tender texture, and the combination of spices and tomato sauce creates a robust and satisfying flavor profile. Enjoy this delicious ragu as a centerpiece of a meal, accompanied by your favorite sides.
