L Ham Lahlou Algerian North African Sweet Lamb Dish
Immerse yourself in the vibrant flavors of North Africa with L’Ham Lahlou, a traditional Algerian sweet lamb dish that masterfully balances savory and sweet elements. Tender pieces of lamb are simmered with fragrant cinnamon and rich orange blossom water, then paired with plump dried fruits like prunes, apricots, and raisins, creating a delightful symphony of flavors. The addition of caramelized sugar creates a luscious syrupy sauce, while toasted almonds add a satisfying crunch to each bite. This sumptuous dish, often prepared for special occasions and Ramadan feasts, is a true celebration of Algerian culinary heritage. Perfectly served with warm bread, it’s a luxurious, aromatic meal that impresses both the palate and the senses.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 1 kg lamb (shoulder or leg, cut into medium-sized pieces)
- 3 tablespoons butter or ghee
- 100 grams sugar
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 2 tablespoons orange blossom water
- 500 ml water
- 150 grams prunes (pitted)
- 100 grams apricots (dried)
- 50 grams almonds (blanched and peeled)
- 50 grams raisins
- 1 pinch salt
Instructions
In a large pot over medium heat, melt the butter or ghee and sear the lamb pieces until golden brown on all sides.
Add the cinnamon stick, a pinch of salt, and 500 ml of water to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let the lamb simmer for 40 minutes until tender.
Stir in the sugar and orange blossom water, ensuring the sugar dissolves completely into the liquid. Let it cook for another 10 minutes over medium heat, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
Add the prunes, apricots, and raisins to the pot. Stir gently to combine and let the fruits simmer with the lamb for an additional 15 minutes. This will allow them to soften and absorb the sweet, fragrant flavors.
Meanwhile, toast the blanched almonds in a dry pan over medium heat until lightly golden and fragrant. Set aside for garnish.
Once the lamb is fully cooked and the fruits are tender, remove the pot from heat. The sauce should have a slightly syrupy consistency.
Serve the L'Ham Lahlou hot, garnished with the toasted almonds. This dish pairs beautifully with fresh bread or as part of a larger festive meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
4690 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 291.0 g | 373% | |
| Saturated Fat | 123.9 g | 620% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 1062 mg | 354% | |
| Sodium | 905 mg | 39% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 310.6 g | 113% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 26.7 g | 95% | |
| Total Sugars | 244.5 g | ||
| Protein | 239.5 g | 479% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.6 mcg | 3% | |
| Calcium | 450 mg | 35% | |
| Iron | 25.4 mg | 141% | |
| Potassium | 5444 mg | 116% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
