Iraqi Lamb Shawarma (Kus Al-Laham) – Recipe for Preparing Kus Al-Laham

on

Iraqi Lamb Shawarma (Kus Al-Laham) – Recipe for Preparing Kus Al-Laham

Kus Al-Laham, also known as Iraqi lamb shawarma, is a flavorful and traditional dish from Iraqi cuisine. Similar to shawarma dishes from the Levant and Turkey, it combines rich spices and tender meat for a delicious meal.

This dish is packed with essential nutrients like vitamins, minerals, and calories to provide energy, support immunity, and promote heart and bone health.

Ingredients for Kus Al-Laham (Serves 4)

Iraqi Lamb Shawarma (Kus Al-Laham)


  • 1 kg of lamb, cut into thin strips.
  • ½ cup of yogurt.
  • ½ cup of tomato paste.
  • ½ cup of lamb fat (optional, for enhanced flavor).
  • 1 tablespoon of hot sauce.
  • Juice of 1 lemon.
  • 1 tablespoon of white pepper.
  • 1 tablespoon of red chili powder.
  • 1 tablespoon of garlic powder.
  • 1 tablespoon of cardamom powder.
  • 1 tablespoon of ground cloves.
  • 1 tablespoon of salt.
  • 3 tablespoons of shawarma spices.
  • 2 bay leaves.
  • 2 bunches of parsley, finely chopped.
  • 1 onion, sliced.

Steps to Prepare Kus Al-Laham

  1. Marinate the Meat:

    • In a deep bowl, combine all the spices, yogurt, tomato paste, and olive oil. Mix well to form a marinade.
    • Add the lamb strips to the marinade and toss until the meat is fully coated.
    • Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 24 hours to allow the flavors to infuse.

  2. Prepare the Meat:

    • Remove the lamb from the refrigerator and drain the excess marinade using a strainer.
    • Heat a large pot or skillet over high heat. Add the lamb strips and lamb fat, if using.
    • Sauté the meat, stirring frequently, until it turns brown and is fully cooked.

  3. Serve the Kus Al-Laham:

    • Transfer the cooked lamb to a serving dish.
    • Garnish with sliced onions and chopped parsley for a fresh, vibrant touch.
    • Optionally, serve alongside tahini sauce, flatbread, or pickled vegetables for a complete meal.

Tips:

  • Adjust the spice level to your preference by increasing or reducing the chili powder and hot sauce.
  • For extra tenderness, consider slow-cooking the lamb over lower heat.

Enjoy the rich flavors of Kus Al-Laham, a dish that showcases the best of Iraqi culinary traditions. Bon appétit!

Comments

Post a Comment