Hearty, delicious and family friendlis how I describe this stew. Growing up, Lebanese cauliflower stew was at least a monthly staple in our family. If you like cauliflower, then you will adore this version!
Ingredients
600g/ 1 lb 5 oz. lamb shanks/ oxtail/ lamb neck
2large cauliflower headsabout 2 kgs both, break into large florets, keep the stems on and discard the leaves if they are still on
1large garlic headcrushed
1bunch corianderstems removed, washed, drained and chopped, about 1 cup chopped
9cupswater
¼cupsunflower oilto sauté the coriander and garlic
4cupssunflower oilto fry the cauliflower florets
Salt to taste
1large lemonjuiced
For the meat stock:
1onion
2bay leaves
1cinnamon stick
2cardamom pods
Instructions
Wash the meat and drain, set in a large pot, add 9 cups of water and place on high heat.
Spoon the scum as it appears, once it reaches a boiling point, add the onion, cardamom pods, cinnamon stick and bay leaves. Cover the pot, reduce heat to low and let it simmer for two hours, or until the meat is fully cooked. Strain the broth and place the meat on a dish to cool down. Shred the meat.
Working in batches, in a frying pan, heat the oil to an adequate frying temperature and cook the cauliflower florets on each side to a light golden color. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
Transfer the meat broth and the shredded meat to a large pot, and bring to a boil.
Meanwhile, combine the crushed garlic and coriander/ cilantro in a skillet, add the sunflower oil and sauté for a couple of seconds until the cilantro leaves wilt a bit and the mixture brings out a nice aroma, making sure not to burn the mixture. Add the garlic cilantro mix to the meat pot, reduce heat to low, cover up and allow the flavors to mellow together for about 10 minutes.
Transfer the cauliflower florets to the meat pot, adjust salt to your taste preference, return to a simmer for about 20 minutes, not more. Avoid shaking or stirring the pot to avoid breaking the cauliflower florets. Add lemon juice, simmer for 2 more minutes.
Serve with rice and vermicelli or even with plain rice. Happy eating!
Notes
If you make this recipe, share your pictures on Facebook! I would love to see your creations!Hashtag them #Hadia's Lebanese Cuisine