Warm, deeply savory, and brightened with a hit of citrus and tart cranberries, this lamb stew is the kind of cold-weather cooking that makes your whole kitchen smell incredible. The combination of fresh orange juice, orange zest, and cranberries creates a naturally sweet-tart braising liquid that balances beautifully against the richness of slow-simmered lamb shoulder. Coconut oil replaces butter for searing, and the broth base keeps things clean and iodine-conscious without sacrificing any depth of flavor. Turmeric, Ceylon cinnamon, fresh ginger, and garlic layer in warmth and complexity, while carrots and parsnips soak up all that fragrant liquid as they cook down to tender perfection. Managing iodine intake often means scrutinizing every ingredient in a braise like this, but every component here ā from the sea salt to the bone broth to the fresh produce ā is straightforward and easy to verify. The long, low simmer does most of the work for you, and the result is fork-tender lamb that practically melts into the glossy, jewel-toned sauce. Finish with a scatter of fresh parsley and serve it straight from the pot for a meal that feels genuinely special.
About Fig
Fig is a food discovery app that helps you find foods and recipes that fit your dietary needs. Whether you have food allergies, intolerances, or follow a specific diet, Fig makes it easy to eat with confidence.
2 lb boneless lamb shoulder, cut into 1 ½-inch cubes
1 tsp fine sea salt, plus more to taste
Chef's tip
Fine sea salt and table salt measure the same - no conversion needed.
2 tbsp coconut oil
1 medium yellow onion, diced
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp fresh ginger, peeled and grated
1 tsp ground turmeric
½ tsp ceylon cinnamon
1 ½ cups fresh or frozen cranberries
1 cup fresh orange juice (from about 2 large oranges)
1 tbsp orange zest
2 cups bone broth
1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
1 tbsp honey
3 medium carrots, cut into 1-inch pieces
2 medium parsnips, cut into 1-inch pieces
2 sprigs fresh rosemary
3 sprigs fresh thyme
For serving
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions
1
Pat the lamb cubes dry with paper towels and season all over with 1 tsp salt.
2
Heat the coconut oil in a Dutch oven over medium-high heat until shimmering. Working in two batches to avoid crowding, add the lamb in a single layer and sear undisturbed for 3ā4 minutes per side, until deeply browned on at least two sides. Transfer the seared lamb to a plate and repeat with the remaining pieces.
Want the full recipe?
Create a Fig account for step-by-step instructions, access to our full recipe library, and more!