Ground Lamb and Rice Recipe – Hungarian Chef

by Rebecca Novak published on September 1, 2023

Are you looking for a delicious, easy-to-make dish? Look no further than this exotic blend of ground lamb and rice! Perfect for any night of the week, this meal is sure to please even the pickiest eater.

With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up this ground lamb and rice dinner in no time at all. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting out in the kitchen, this is sure to become one of your favorites.

Read on to learn how to make this delicious dish. You will find step-by-step instructions and tips for perfecting the dish. Plus, So let’s get started!

Ground Lamb and Rice Recipe

What is Ground Lamb and Rice?

Ground Lamb and Rice is a classic dinner recipe that’s both delicious and easy to make. It’s made with ground lamb, onions, spices, butter, and rice. This hearty combination of savory flavors goes well with many side dishes and makes for a comforting meal!

This classic and flavorful dish is popularly served around the world in countries such as Iran, India, Turkey, and Syria.

However, it can easily be adapted to suit different tastes so don’t hesitate to experiment with your own ingredients to make it your own. Whether you’re cooking for one or a crowd, this ground lamb and rice recipe will be sure to please!

What does it taste like?

This lamb and rice dish is packed with flavor from the cumin and butter, as well as a nice kick of spice. The cooked onion adds a mild sweetness that complements the richness of the ground lamb.

The white rice provides a hearty base that soaks up all of the flavors in this dish. The combination of flavors in this dish creates a savory, comforting flavor that is sure to please.

Ground lamb and rice are both high in protein and provide essential vitamins and minerals that make it a nutritious as well as delicious meal.

How did I first get introduced to Ground Lamb and Rice?

I first encountered ground lamb and rice when I was visiting friends in Iran. We had been invited to a dinner party, and the host served us this traditional Iranian dish. I was immediately intrigued by the exotic flavors in the dish – it tasted nothing like anything I had ever tried before!

After a few bites, I found myself completely hooked. The combination of the savory ground lamb, creamy butter, and aromatic spices was simply divine. I think what impressed me the most was how easy it was to make a large quantity for a group.

The next day, my friend taught me how to make the dish from scratch – starting with browning the ground lamb in a skillet and adding onion for flavor. We then added the spices, cooked the rice in butter until it was perfectly tender, and stirred everything together. It was so simple yet so delicious!

Since then, ground lamb and rice have been a staple in my kitchen. I always have some of the ingredients on hand, which makes it quick and easy to whip up for dinner. Plus, all of my dinner guests are always impressed with the exotic flavors of this classic dish.

Ground lamb and rice are now one of my favorite dishes, and I’m so glad that I was introduced to them. With just a few simple ingredients, you can make a delicious and comforting meal in no time! So next time you’re looking for something new and exciting to try for dinner, give ground lamb and rice a try. You won’t be disappointed!

How to make Ground Lamb and Rice?

Making Ground Lamb and Rice is surprisingly easy, and just requires a few simple steps. The key to mastering this dish is to get the flavors right, so be sure not to skimp on the spices! Here’s how to make it:

You can also read the following lunch recipes:

Ingredients

  • Cumin: this spice is a key ingredient in this recipe, lending the dish an earthy flavor.
  • Water: used to balance out the ingredients and create a creamy consistency.
  • Butter: adds richness and depth of flavor to the cooking process.
  • Ground Lamb: the main source of protein in this dish, providing essential vitamins and minerals as well as flavor.
  • Salt: helps to bring out the flavors in the dish and season it to perfection.
  • Onion: adds a mild sweetness to the mix, as well as umami flavor.
  • White Rice: provides a hearty base that soaks up all of the flavors in this.
Ground Lamb and Rice Recipe

Step-by-step instructions

Step 1

Saute the ground lamb

  • Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  • Add the ground lamb and, stirring constantly, cook until it is golden brown and cooked through.

Step 2

Add the onion and spices

  • When the lamb has been cooked through, add the diced onion and season with cumin, salt, and pepper.
  • Cook for 3-4 minutes, or until the onions are softened.

Step 3

Cook the rice

  • In a saucepan add butter and rice, stirring to combine.
  • Pour in the water and bring to a boil.
  • Reduce heat to low and cover. Simmer for 15 minutes, or until all of the liquid has been absorbed.

Step 4

Combine Rice & ground lamb

  • Once the rice is cooked, add it to the skillet with the ground lamb and onion mixture.
  • Stir to combine and heat through for an additional 2 minutes.

Step 5

Serve

  • Let it rest for a few minutes.
  • Serve with your favorite side dishes and enjoy!

Variations

This dish is incredibly versatile, so feel free to experiment and make it your own! Here are some delicious variations that work well:

  • Swap out the ground lamb for ground beef or turkey.
  • Use brown rice instead of white rice for an extra nutritional punch.
  • Add additional vegetables such as carrots, celery, or bell peppers.
  • Try adding fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for a flavorful kick.
  • For a bit of spice, toss in some chili flakes or diced jalapeno peppers.
  • Swap out the cumin for smoked paprika or garam masala for a deeper flavor.
  • For a creamy version, stir in some plain Greek yogurt at the end of cooking.

Tips

  • Be sure to brown the ground lamb thoroughly – this helps to develop flavor.
  • To save time, you can use pre-cooked rice or cook a large batch of rice ahead of time.
  • For a heartier dish, add a can of diced tomatoes at the end.
  • If you’re in a hurry, you can skip the onion and just add some dried herbs for extra flavor.
Ground Lamb and Rice Recipe
Ground Lamb and Rice Recipe

Ground Lamb and Rice Recipe

Are you looking for a delicious, easy-to-make dish? Look no further than this exotic blend of ground lamb and rice! Perfect for any night of the week, this meal is sure to please even the pickiest eater.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Course: Dinner, Lunch
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Ground Lamb and Rice Recipe
Servings: 3 people
Calories: 301kcal
Author: Rebecca Novak

Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • Saucepan

Ingredients

  • ½ tsp ground cumin
  • cup water
  • 2 tsp butter
  • 1 lb ground lamb
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 onion
  • ¾ cup white rice

Instructions

  • Saute the ground lamb.
  • Add onion and spices.
  • Cook rice in butter and water.
  • Combine Rice & ground lamb.
  • Serve with your favorite side dishes.

Video

Notes

  • Be sure to brown the ground lamb thoroughly – this helps to develop flavor.
  • To save time, you can use pre-cooked rice or cook a large batch of rice ahead of time.
  • For a heartier dish, add a can of diced tomatoes at the end.
  • If you’re in a hurry, you can skip the onion and just add some dried herbs for extra flavor.

Nutrition

Calories: 301kcal
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!

Nutrition Information

What to serve with Ground Lamb and Rice?

Here are some delicious sides to complete your meal:

  • Salads: A light, crunchy salad pairs nicely with the savory flavors of this dish. Try serving it with a simple green salad or a cucumber tomato salad.
  • Yogurt Sauce: A cool and creamy yogurt sauce is the perfect accompaniment to this dish – try blending together plain Greek yogurt, garlic, lemon juice, and dill.
  • Vegetables: Serve it with a side of sautéed vegetables such as bell peppers, eggplant, and zucchini for added nutrition.
  • Nuts & Seeds: Sprinkle some toasted nuts or seeds over the top of your Ground Lamb and Rice for an extra crunch.
  • Rice Pilaf: Add some herbs, spices, and vegetables to make a hearty rice pilaf – perfect when served alongside the Ground Lamb and Rice.
  • Hummus: Enjoy Ground Lamb and Rice with a scoop of creamy hummus for an extra hit of protein and fiber.
  • Lentils: Add some cooked lentils to your plate for an extra boost of plant-based protein.
  • Herbs & Spices: Sprinkle fresh herbs such as parsley or mint over the top of your Ground Lamb and Rice for an extra burst of flavor.
  • Cauliflower & Broccoli: For a nutritious side, try roasting cauliflower or broccoli with garlic and olive oil – delicious!
  • Roasted Potatoes: Serve it up with some crispy roasted potatoes for a hearty meal.
  • Curries: If you like your meals with some heat, try serving Ground Lamb and Rice with a spicy curry.
  • Pickles: A sour pickle is the perfect condiment to add a bit of acidity and balance the richness of the dish.
  • Kebabs: Serve this up with some grilled kebabs for an extra boost of flavor and texture.

How to store leftover Ground Lamb and Rice?

Ground Lamb and Rice are best enjoyed fresh, as the flavors tend to become muddled after sitting for too long. If you do have leftovers, make sure to store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. For optimal results, it’s best to enjoy it within two days of cooking.

To reheat Ground Lamb and Rice, simply add a few tablespoons of water to the pan and cook over medium-high heat until it is heated through. Alternatively, you can also reheat it in the microwave.

Can pregnant women eat this?

Yes, pregnant women can enjoy Ground Lamb and Rice. As long as the meat is cooked thoroughly, it can be safe to eat during pregnancy. Pregnant women should be sure to choose lean cuts of lamb for their dish, as these are lower in fat and calories.

Additionally, they should make sure that all herbs and spices used are fresh or from sealed containers. It is also important to note that pregnant women should avoid eating large amounts of processed meats such as hotdogs, deli meats, and sausages, as these can contain high levels of nitrates which can be dangerous for the unborn baby.

As long as Ground Lamb and Rice are cooked properly and no processed meats are added, it can be a safe and delicious choice for expectant mothers.

FAQs 

Can I make this vegan?

Yes, you can make Ground Lamb and Rice vegan by swapping out the ground lamb for a plant-based protein such as tofu or tempeh. Additionally, you can also omit the butter and use olive oil instead.

Is Ground Lamb and Rice kid-friendly?

Yes, Ground Lamb and Rice is an excellent choice for kids. It is a nutritious and flavorful meal that can be easily customized to fit any dietary preferences or restrictions. Be sure to adjust the spices as needed, depending on your child’s age. For instance, you may want to omit the chili flakes if serving this dish to younger children.

Can I make this crispier?

Yes, for a crispier version of Ground Lamb and Rice, try roasting it in the oven on a baking sheet. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and spread out the mixture onto the sheet. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.

Wrapping Up

If you’re looking for an easy meal that’s both delicious and nutritious, Ground Lamb and Rice are sure to satisfy you. With its simple ingredients and flavorful spices, it’s a great dish that will quickly become a staple in your household.

Thank you for reading! We hope you enjoy making this dish as much as we do. Please share this article with your friends and family if you think they’d enjoy it.

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Author Profile
Rebecca Novak, Registered Dietitian & Chef

Rebecca Novak is a trained chef with over 10 years of experience in the food industry. She has worked in both fine dining and casual Hungarian restaurants and specializes in creating dishes using fresh, seasonal ingredients. She also loves exploring different cuisines worldwide, which allows her to bring unique flavors and ideas to the recipes she creates for Hungarianchef.com. Read more

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