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Za’atar Lamb Grain Bowl with Pomegranate & Freekeh

Za’atar Lamb Grain Bowl with Pomegranate & Freekeh is a vibrant dish that beautifully combines tender lamb, nutty freekeh, and sweet pomegranate seeds. This colorful bowl not only tantalizes your taste buds but also creates an unforgettable dining experience reminiscent of bustling Middle Eastern markets. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy dinner, this meal is both visually stunning and packed with flavor, making it an instant favorite for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 lamb chops (about 1 lb)
  • 2 tsp za’atar spice mix
  • 1 cup freekeh
  • ½ cup pomegranate seeds
  • ¼ cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
  • 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Rinse freekeh under cold water until clear. In a pot, add 2 cups of water, bring to a boil, then stir in the freekeh. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 25 minutes until tender.
  2. While the freekeh cooks, season lamb chops with salt, pepper, and za’atar. Let marinate for 15 minutes.
  3. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat with olive oil. Sear lamb chops for about 4 minutes on each side until browned and cooked to your desired doneness.
  4. Transfer cooked lamb to a plate and let it rest for at least 5 minutes.
  5. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked freekeh, pomegranate seeds, chopped mint, olive oil, and lemon juice. Toss gently until well mixed.
  6. To serve, spoon the freekeh mixture into bowls and top each with sliced lamb chops. Garnish with additional pomegranate seeds and mint leaves.

Nutrition

Keywords: Feel free to substitute freekeh with quinoa or bulgur for different textures. Add seasonal veggies like roasted squash or swap pomegranate seeds for diced mango for added sweetness.