Authentic Middle Eastern Madfoon Recipe

Ingredients

2 kg leg of lamb, bone-in
3 tablespoons olive oil
Salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste
2 large onions, chopped
6 cloves of garlic, minced
2 large tomatoes, sliced
2 tablespoons tomato paste
2 green bell peppers, sliced
6 medium potatoes, peeled and cut into quarters
2 large carrots, peeled and sliced
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon ground coriander
1 teaspoon turmeric
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
4 cups water
Aluminium foil for wrapping

Steps and instructions

Preheat the oven to 180°C (356°F).
Season the leg of lamb with salt, pepper, and olive oil.
In a large oven-safe pot, brown the leg of lamb on all sides over medium heat. Remove the lamb and set it aside.
In the same pot, add the onions and garlic. Sauté until the onions are translucent.
Add the tomato paste, cumin, coriander, turmeric, paprika, and cinnamon to the pot. Stir well to combine.
Add the sliced tomatoes and bell peppers to the pot. Cook for a few minutes until they start to soften.
Place the browned leg of lamb back into the pot on top of the vegetables.
Arrange the potatoes and carrots around the lamb.
Pour in the water. The water level should be about halfway up the side of the lamb.
Cover the pot with aluminium foil and place it in the preheated oven.
Bake for about 2 hours, or until the lamb is tender and the vegetables are cooked through.
Once cooked, remove the pot from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

Tools for making

Oven-safe pot - A large pot that can be used both on the stovetop and in the oven to cook the Madfoon.
Aluminium foil - Used to cover the pot and create a sealed environment for the Madfoon to cook evenly.
Knife - For chopping onions, garlic, tomatoes, and other ingredients.
Cutting board - To provide a surface for safe and convenient food preparation.
Measuring spoons - For accurately measuring the required amounts of spices and tomato paste.
Peeler - To peel the potatoes and carrots.
Spatula - For stirring and sautéing the ingredients in the pot.
Tongs - To handle and flip the leg of lamb when browning it.
Oven mitts - To protect your hands when handling the hot pot and foil.
Serving platter - To present the Madfoon in an appealing way when serving.

Recipe variations

Replace the leg of lamb with chicken thighs or beef chunks for a different meat option.
Add a teaspoon of harissa paste or chili flakes for a spicy kick.
Include a handful of pitted olives for a briny flavor.
Experiment with different spices such as cardamom, cloves, or ginger for a unique twist.
Add a squeeze of lemon juice or a splash of vinegar to give the dish a tangy flavor.
For a vegetarian version, substitute the meat with a variety of vegetables like eggplant, zucchini, and mushrooms.
Try marinating the meat overnight in a mixture of yogurt, garlic, and lemon juice for extra tenderness and flavor.
Serve the Madfoon with a side of couscous, rice, or flatbread to soak up the delicious sauce.
Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley, cilantro, or mint for added freshness.
For a smoky flavor, grill the meat and vegetables before baking in the oven.

Recipe overview

Introducing Madfoon - a traditional Middle Eastern dish that's sure to impress at your next family dinner. This hearty meal features a succulent leg of lamb, slow-cooked with a variety of vegetables and a unique blend of spices, creating an aromatic and flavorful feast. Madfoon is not just about taste, but also about the cooking process, which is slow and methodical, allowing the flavors to develop over time. Expect a dish that is not only savory but also rich in texture due to the combination of tender meat and soft, well-seasoned vegetables. It is a dish that's worth the time and effort and will certainly satiate your craving for a warm, comforting meal.

Common questions

Can I use a different cut of lamb? Yes, you can use a different cut of lamb for this recipe. However, keep in mind that the cooking time may vary depending on the cut you choose. A leg of lamb is recommended for the best results.
Can I substitute the vegetables? Absolutely! Feel free to substitute or add any vegetables you prefer. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Do I have to preheat the oven? Yes, preheating the oven is necessary to ensure even cooking throughout the recipe.
Should I remove the foil during cooking? No, it's important to keep the pot covered with aluminum foil during baking to retain moisture and allow the flavors to meld together.
Can I prepare this recipe in advance? Yes, you can prepare the Madfoon in advance. Once cooked, you can store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it in the oven or on the stovetop before serving.
What can I serve with Madfoon? Madfoon is often served with rice or Arabic bread. You can also pair it with a side salad or yogurt sauce for a complete meal.

Serving dishes and utensils

Oven-safe pot - A large pot that can be safely used in the oven to cook the Madfoon.
Aluminium foil - Used to cover the pot while baking the Madfoon, helping to retain moisture and flavor.
Knife - For chopping onions, slicing tomatoes, and other preparation tasks.
Cutting board - To provide a stable surface for cutting vegetables and meat.
Serving platter - A large dish or platter to present the cooked Madfoon for serving.
Tongs - Useful for handling the hot leg of lamb and transferring it to the serving platter.
Spatula - For stirring the vegetables and sauce while cooking.
Measuring spoons - To accurately measure out the spices and tomato paste.
Large spoon - For scooping and serving the Madfoon onto plates.
Trivet - A heat-resistant pad or stand to protect your table or countertop from the hot pot.

Origin stories

Madfoon is a traditional dish beloved in the Arabian Peninsula, particularly in countries like Saudi Arabia, Yemen, and the United Arab Emirates. The cooking method is quite unique and steeped in tradition. The dish is usually cooked outdoors, in a hole dug in the sand. A fire is made in the hole, and once the flames have died down and the embers are glowing, the pot filled with the meat and vegetables is placed inside. The hole is then covered with sand, cooking the food in its own juices and imparting a unique, smoky flavor to the dish. It's not just a meal, but an event, often served at large gatherings, making the act of eating Madfoon a communal and festive experience.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.