Faroe Ember Hash

Background and History

The Faroe Ember Hash is a traditional dish inspired by the culinary heritage of the Faroe Islands, a picturesque archipelago located in the North Atlantic. Known for its rugged terrain and rich seafood offerings, the Faroes boast a unique gastronomy that combines fresh, local ingredients with age-old cooking techniques. Ember cooking, a method that involves slow-cooking food over smoldering embers, has been used by islanders for generations, imparting a distinct, smoky flavor to their dishes. This recipe is a modern twist on this classic method, infusing succulent cuts of lamb with root vegetables, which are roasted to perfection over glowing coals, offering a hearty and flavorful meal.

Ingredients

• Lamb shoulder - 1 kg, boneless and cubed
• Potatoes - 500 g, peeled and diced
• Carrots - 300 g, peeled and sliced
• Turnips - 200 g, peeled and diced
• Onions - 2, chopped
• Thyme - 2 tsp, fresh
• Rosemary - 1 tsp, fresh
• Butter - 100 g
• Sea salt - to taste
• Black pepper - to taste
• Garlic - 4 cloves, minced
• Olive oil - 2 tbsp

Preparation

Step 1: Preparing the Ingredients

Begin by gathering fresh lamb shoulder, potatoes, carrots, and turnips. Ensure that all vegetables are peeled and diced evenly for consistent cooking. Chop the onions and mince the garlic cloves for adding depth of flavor. Collect fresh thyme and rosemary, which will enhance the aromatic profile of the dish.

Step 2: Marinating the Lamb

Place the lamb cubes in a large mixing bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and season generously with sea salt, black pepper, and the minced garlic. Add the thyme and rosemary, mixing well to coat the lamb thoroughly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, allowing the flavors to meld.

Cooking Process

Step 3: Setting Up the Ember Cooking

Prepare an outdoor grill or a firepit for ember cooking by igniting wood or charcoal until it forms glowing embers. Carefully spread the embers to create an even cooking surface. This method, akin to traditional Faroese techniques, imbues the dish with a smoky, charred aroma.

Step 4: Cooking the Hash

In a cast-iron skillet or heavy-duty pan, melt butter over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onions until they turn translucent. Add the marinated lamb cubes, searing them on all sides until browned and caramelized. Incorporate the diced potatoes, carrots, and turnips, stirring occasionally. Cover the skillet with a lid and cook over the embers for about 30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the flavors are well integrated, using a cooking timer to ensure perfect timing.

Enjoying the Meal

Serving Suggestions

Transfer the Faroe Ember Hash to a serving platter. Garnish with extra fresh thyme and rosemary for an elegant touch. The dish pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or freshly baked bread, enhancing the overall dining experience. To fully savor its flavors, enjoy alongside a glass of red wine or a robust ale, reflecting the warming, hearty nature of the dish.

Whether served at an intimate family gathering or a festive outdoor affair, the Faroe Ember Hash brings a touch of the Faroes' rustic charm to your table, creating a memorable culinary experience that celebrates the island's rich gastronomic heritage.