What cut of lamb works best for slow cooking?

Lamb shoulder or leg is ideal because of its marbling and structure. It becomes incredibly tender over time.

Can I cook orzo directly in the sauce?

Yes, and you should. Orzo thickens the dish naturally and absorbs the lamb’s flavor.

Yes, it’s inspired by giouvetsi , a Greek dish of lamb and orzo in a tomato sauce.

Yes, but cook the orzo separately before freezing to avoid it becoming too soft.

Add orzo at the end and stir occasionally. Stop cooking while it's slightly firm, as it continues to soften while resting.

It pairs beautifully with a cucumber salad, lemon wedges, and crusty bread.

Scale

700g lamb shoulder or leg, cut into chunks

2 tbsp olive oil

1 large onion, chopped

4 garlic cloves, minced

2 tbsp tomato paste

400g canned crushed tomatoes

750ml low-sodium beef or vegetable stock

1 cinnamon stick

2 bay leaves

1 tsp ground cumin

1 tsp dried oregano

Salt and black pepper to taste

200g orzo pasta

Fresh parsley or basil, chopped

Lemon zest (optional)

Crumbled feta or toasted pine nuts (optional)

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