Warm, deeply aromatic, and built on bold contrasts, this lamb stew brings together tart cranberries, bright orange juice, and earthy root vegetables in a braise that feels both rustic and a little special. The lamb shoulder is seared until deeply browned before simmering low and slow, which means the meat turns genuinely fork-tender and soaks up every bit of that fragrant, spiced broth. Ceylon cinnamon and turmeric give the base a subtle warmth without overwhelming the fruit-forward notes, while apple cider vinegar and honey keep the whole thing beautifully balanced. Carrots and parsnips go in partway through, so they hold their shape and add a gentle sweetness that plays perfectly against the cranberries. Because every ingredient here is straightforward ā lamb, fresh produce, bone broth, and pantry spices ā there's no need to scrutinize labels for hidden shellfish derivatives or seafood-based stocks, which can sneak into store-bought broths and spice blends more often than you'd expect. A handful of fresh parsley scattered over the top at the end adds a pop of color and a clean, herby finish. This is the kind of stew that makes the whole kitchen smell incredible and tastes even better the next day.
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2 lb boneless lamb shoulder, cut into 1 ½-inch cubes
1 tsp fine sea salt, plus more to taste
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.
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