Lunch: Lamb and White Bean Stew with Spinach, Parsley, and Dill

Recipe by /contributors/sheryl-london This unusual Iranian stew is served hot at the table from the casserole in which it has been cooked. The lid is lifted, and the delicious aromas of rich tender lamb, fresh herbs, spinach and beans fill the room. Serv

This recipe includes superfoods such as:

Lemon, Spinach

Health benefits of Lamb and White Bean Stew with Spinach, Parsley, and Dill

Lemons can help to prevent oxidative damage to the body, which women with PCOS are often susceptible to. Lemons are also rich in vitamin C, flavonoids, and other antioxidants. They can potentially support the immune system and have other health benefits. Lemons also have a low glycemic index, so they should not cause a rapid rise in blood sugar when consumed in natural form. Spinach is a nutrient-dense leafy green vegetable that is rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as iron, magnesium, and antioxidants. The high iron content in spinach helps combat anemia, which is common in women with PCOS. Magnesium helps reduce inflammation and improve insulin sensitivity. The antioxidants in spinach can help lower oxidative stress, which is beneficial for managing PCOS symptoms. Including spinach in your diet can support overall health and well-being.

Ingredients

2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons olive oil
2/3 cup finely chopped leek, white part only (about 1 medium leek)
1 1/4 cups thinly sliced scallions (about 5 or 6 large scallions)
2 teaspoons finely minced garlic (2 large cloves)
2 pounds fresh crinkly leaf spinach, stems trimmed, or two 10-ounce packages or 1 1/4 pounds frozen spinach
2 cups coarsely chopped fresh parsley (about 4 ounces)
2 tablespoons coarsely snipped fresh dill
1 pound lean lamb, cut into 3/4 inch cubes and dried on paper towels
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoon ground turmeric
1 1/4 cups chicken broth
2 tablespoons lemon juice (about 1/2 large lemon)
1 teaspoon finely grated lemon zest
2 cups cooked white cannellini beans (about 4 ounces dried beans cooked or one 19-ounce can, rinsed and drained)

Instructions

In a 5-quart heavy-duty Dutch oven, heat 1 tablespoon of the butter and 1 tablespoon of the oil over medium heat. Add the leek, scallions, and garlic, and sauté, stirring occasionally, until just tender, about 5 minutes. Add the spinach, parsley, and dill, and stir constantly until the greens are just wilted. Remove the Dutch oven from the heat and set it aside.
In a 10-inch skillet over medium-high heat, add the remaining butter and olive oil. When hot, add the lamb, a few pieces at a time, and brown on all sides. Season with salt and pepper, and transfer the lamb to the Dutch oven with the greens. The meat may be seared in 2 batches.
Add the turmeric to the same skillet and stir for a few seconds, Add the chicken broth, scraping up any brown bits, and bring to a boil. Pour over the meat and greens mixture. Cover the Dutch oven, bring to a boil over medium heat, then turn the heat to low. Add the lemon juice and zest and simmer for 1 hour.
Stir in the cooked beans and continue to simmer 10 to 15 minutes more, until the beans are hot and the meat is tender. Spoon over a bed of orzo or rice if you wish.

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