Chez Panisse Lamb Stew With Dried Apricots

An alice waters stew with middle eastern flavors, it's delicious served with plain rice or a simple pilaf.

Soak the apricots in warm water for an hour or so while you prepare the rest of the stew.

Season the lamb well with salt and pepper.

Heat olive oil in a heavy bottomed pan over medium high heat--enough oil to cover the bottom of the pan.

Add the lamb and brown it on all sides , working in batches if necessary--do not crowd the meat.

Remove the meat to a plate and pour off and discard most of the fat / oil in the pan , leaving just a thin veil of oil.

Add the onions and cook them until soft--about 7 minutes.

Add the lamb back in , stir in the spices and mix well , and cook for another four minutes.

Add enough water to come just to the top of the meat and bring to a boil , skimming any foam that rises to the top.

Turn the heat down to a simmer , cover and cook for half and hour.

Whhile the lamb is cooking , drain the apricots , reserving the liquid.

Chop the apricots coarsely and add them to the lamb.

Now keep the pan partially covered and continue to simmer for about anothe.

dried apricot, lamb shoulder, salt and pepper, olive oil, onions, fresh ginger, ground coriander, cinnamon, saffron, rose water