Tonight: Algeria



Algerian Harira - a traditional north African dish eaten during the month of Ramadan to break the fast and on other special occasions.



We soaked the chickpeas/garbanzo beans overnight. We cooked and rinsed them, then prepared the stew.




We cubed a pound of lamb:



Heated olive oil, browned the lamb, and sauteed the onions and celery.









Added saffron, turmeric, fresh ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, and pepper tomatoes and chicken stock at intervals of a few minutes. Simmered for 45 minutes.




Added chickpeas and lentils simmered for 20 minutes.




Added a thickener of tomato paste, flour, and water. Simmered another 20 minutes until lentils are tender.



Serve with fresh cilantro, fresh parsley, and a lemon wedge.






Results: Great success! We haven't had much exposure to North African food before. This is a spicy, flavorful stew. We shared it at a small dinner party and it was a hit. It is being added to the recipe book and we'd be happy to eat Algerian food again.