Lahm Lhalou - My Family Version Of Sweet Meat (Algerian Ramadan Special)

El Ham Lahlou is a traditional Algerian dish served in Ramadan at the end of the day to break ones fast. Made salt free to prevent thirst and yes you have guessed right is super sweet!

Recipe Adapted from celnet

El Ham Lahlou

Serves 2

Ingredients

1 1/2 tbsp butter or ghee
225g Halal lamb
1 carrot, peeled and chopped
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
1/4 tsp paprika
1/4 tsp cumin
375ml water
60g sugar
6  dried prunes, soaked in water for 1 hour or 6 fresh ready to eat fresh prunes minus the soaking
1  tbsp whole almonds or better still whole blanched almonds
1 or 2 firm pear peeled, cored and cut into wedges
A handful or frozen peas
1/2 tbsp orange blossom water
1/2 tbsp orange juice

Method

Melt the butter/ghee in the pan, fry the lamb and chopped carrot on low heat for about 5 minutes then add the spices, water and sugar and mix to combine.

Bring to a simmer and cook for about 25 minutes, or until the lamb is tender.

Drain the prunes if you soaked dry ones and add them along with the almonds and pear wedges.

Simmer for a further 15-20 minutes then take the pan off the heat and add the peas, orange juice and  blossom water.

Serve alongside rice, couscous etc.

** You can use different fruit such as apples but try to ensure the fruit is firm so it will hold its shape once cooked i.e. not turn to mush.