How to Make Lamb Ouzi (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Lamb Ouzi is a beloved Emirati classic and a centerpiece of Dubai’s culinary scene, especially during festive occasions and Ramadan. This aromatic rice and lamb dish, known locally as 'Ouzi bil Lahm', is often served at hotel restaurants, business lunches, beach clubs, and lavish iftar or suhoor spreads. Originating from Dubai’s Emirati traditions, Lamb Ouzi is celebrated for its tender, slow-cooked lamb, fluffy spiced rice, and the subtle touch of roasted nuts and vegetables. The dish’s inviting aroma and rich flavors make it a favorite among locals and visitors alike, embodying Dubai’s hospitality and its affinity for sharing meals in large gatherings. Its taste profile is a harmonious blend of warm spices like cinnamon, cardamom, and cloves, balanced with the savory goodness of lamb and the comforting texture of basmati rice. Traditionally, Ouzi is prepared for special occasions, weddings, and festivals, but its popularity has made it a staple in Dubai’s modern dining culture, from casual beach clubs to upscale hotel buffets. For those tracking calories, this recipe offers a lighter, health-conscious adaptation, maintaining authenticity while ensuring it fits perfectly into a balanced diet. Lamb Ouzi is not only a culinary delight but also a reflection of Dubai’s vibrant food heritage, making it an excellent choice for anyone seeking wholesome Emirati flavors.
Ingredients
Step-by-step instructions
Step 1 · Heat olive oil in a large pot
Heat olive oil in a large pot. Add onions and sauté until golden.
Step 2 · Add lamb cubes and brown evenly on all sides
Add lamb cubes and brown evenly on all sides.
Step 3 · Stir in carrots and green peas
Stir in carrots and green peas, cooking until slightly softened.
Step 4 · Add cinnamon stick
Add cinnamon stick, cardamom, cloves, bay leaf, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
Step 5 · Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer
Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Add rinsed basmati rice.
Step 6 · Cover and cook on low heat until rice is tender and lamb is cooked ...
Cover and cook on low heat until rice is tender and lamb is cooked through.
Step 7 · Remove cinnamon
Remove cinnamon, cardamom, cloves, and bay leaf. Fluff rice with fork. Garnish with roasted almonds and parsley.
Why this recipe is healthy
This healthy Lamb Ouzi recipe uses lean lamb, minimal oil, and loads of vegetables to cut excess fat and calories while preserving authentic flavor. Using basmati rice ensures a lower glycemic index and steady blood sugar. The dish is halal, protein-rich, and ideal for balanced diets, making it a smart choice for weight management, muscle support, and overall wellness.
A note on tradition
Lamb Ouzi is a festive Emirati dish, symbolizing generosity and unity in Dubai. Traditionally served at weddings, Ramadan iftar, and suhoor, it’s a highlight of family gatherings and hotel restaurant banquets. Its preparation and sharing reflect Dubai’s cosmopolitan hospitality and its role as a culinary crossroads blending Emirati classics with Levantine flavors.