Turkish spiced lamb mince

Turkish spiced lamb mince is a vibrant dish featuring tender lamb mixed with aromatic spices like cumin, allspice, and cinnamon, complemented by sweet dried apricots. Served on a bed of fluffy turmeric-infused couscous, it balances savory and sweet flavors for a satisfying meal.

26 Nov 2025
Cook time 15 min
Prep time 5 min

Ingredients:

1 cup couscous
1 tsp turmeric powder
2 tsp olive oil
1 red onion
1 lb lamb mince
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp allspice
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp cinnamon
1/2 cup dried apricots
1 cup fresh parsley
1 cup coriander leaves

Turkish spiced lamb mince is a flavorful and aromatic dish that brings the rich culinary heritage of Turkey to your table. Combining the fragrant spices of cumin, allspice, paprika, and cinnamon with tender lamb mince, this recipe offers a delightful mix of savory and sweet, thanks to the addition of dried apricots. Serve it with fluffy turmeric-infused couscous for a complete and satisfying meal.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Couscous:
- In a medium saucepan, bring 1 1/4 cups of water to a boil. Stir in 1 cup of couscous and 1 tsp of turmeric powder. Remove from heat, cover, and let it sit for 5 minutes.
- Fluff the couscous with a fork to separate the grains. Set aside.

2. Cook the Lamb Mince:
- In a large skillet, heat 2 tsp of olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the finely chopped red onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes, or until the onion becomes soft and translucent.
- Add the lamb mince to the skillet. Cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until it is browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes.

3. Spice the Lamb:
- Add 1 tsp ground cumin, 1 tsp allspice, 1 tsp paprika, and 1 tsp cinnamon to the lamb mince mixture. Stir well to combine and cook for another 2-3 minutes to allow the spices to release their flavors.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.

4. Add Dried Apricots:
- Stir in the chopped dried apricots. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to soften the apricots and combine all the flavors.

5. Combine and Serve:
- Mix the cooked lamb and apricot mixture with the prepared couscous until well combined.
- Stir in the freshly chopped parsley and coriander leaves to add freshness to the dish.

6. Garnish and Serve:
- Transfer the Turkish Spiced Lamb Mince to a serving dish.
- Garnish with additional parsley and coriander leaves if desired.

7. Enjoy:
- Serve hot and enjoy this flavorful and aromatic dish with your family and friends!

Turkish spiced lamb mince is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that can elevate your dinner routine with its exotic flavors. Whether you're cooking for yourself or hosting guests, this recipe is sure to impress with its rich taste and elegant presentation. Enjoy this dish with a side of couscous and a sprinkle of fresh herbs for a meal that is both comforting and sophisticated.

Turkish spiced lamb mince FAQ:

How long does it take to cook the lamb mince?

Cooking the lamb mince takes about 6-8 minutes until it's browned and cooked through. After adding the spices, cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to develop.

What is the best way to store leftover Turkish spiced lamb mince?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving, and note that the couscous can also be stored separately.

Can I substitute lamb mince with another type of meat?

Yes, you can substitute lamb mince with beef, turkey, or chicken mince. The spices will complement these alternatives well, but adjust the cooking times as needed based on the meat you use.

What pan size is recommended for cooking the lamb mince?

A large skillet or frying pan (about 12 inches) is recommended to ensure even cooking and enough space for browning the lamb mince properly.

How should I know when the lamb mince is done cooking?

The lamb mince is done when it is well-browned and no longer pink, which typically takes about 6-8 minutes of cooking. Breaking it apart with a spoon will help ensure even cooking.

Tips:

- Make sure to fluff the couscous with a fork after it has absorbed the water to keep the grains light and separate.

- To bring out the flavors of the spices, toast them in the pan for a minute before adding the lamb mince.

- Soak the dried apricots in warm water for a few minutes before chopping if they are too hard; this will soften them and make them easier to work with.

- Garnish with fresh parsley and coriander leaves just before serving to add a burst of color and freshness to the dish.

- Adjust the level of spices according to your taste preference and heat tolerance.

Nutrition per serving

4 Servings
Calories 470kcal
Protein 22g
Carbohydrates 33g
Fiber 5g
Sugar 13g
Fat 30g

Turkish spiced lamb mince