Fraged

Introduction to Fraged

Fraged is a traditional dish with rich cultural roots. Originating from the lush mountainous regions of Transylvania, Fraged is a staple during winter festivals and family gatherings. Its name translates to 'tender' in Romanian, reflecting the melt-in-the-mouth texture of the dish when prepared correctly. Historically, Fraged was cooked in large pots over open fires, with family members adding secret ingredients that varied from village to village.

Ingredients

1. Lamb - 2 pounds, cubed
2. Olive Oil - 4 tablespoons
3. Onions - 3, diced
4. Garlic - 5 cloves, minced
5. Carrots - 3, sliced
6. Celery - 2 stalks, chopped
7. Red Wine - 1 cup
8. Beef Broth - 4 cups
9. Rosemary - 2 sprigs
10. Thyme - 1 teaspoon dried
11. Bay Leaf - 1
12. Potatoes - 5, peeled and cubed
13. Salt - to taste
14. Black Pepper - to taste

Preparation Steps

1. Begin by preparing the lamb. Trim any excess fat and cut it into uniform cubes for even cooking.
2. Dice the onions and mince the garlic. Slice the carrots and chop the celery into small pieces.
3. Peel and cube the potatoes, setting them aside in a bowl of water to prevent discoloration.
4. Measure out the red wine and beef broth and set them aside.
5. Prepare an herb bundle with the rosemary, thyme, and bay leaf by tying them together with kitchen twine.

Cooking Instructions

1. In a large, heavy-bottomed pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the cubed lamb in batches, searing it on all sides until browned. Remove from the pot and set aside.
3. In the same pot, add the onions and cook until they are translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the garlic, carrots, and celery, cooking for another 3 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.
5. Pour in the red wine to deglaze the pot, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.
6. Return the seared lamb back into the pot and add the beef broth.
7. Stir in the herb bundle of rosemary, thyme, and bay leaf.
8. Cover the pot, reduce the heat to low, and simmer for about 2 to 3 hours, or until the lamb is tender and the flavors meld together. Set a cooking timer to monitor the process.
9. Add the cubed potatoes to the pot and continue simmering for another 30 minutes until the potatoes are cooked through.
10. Season with salt and black pepper to taste, adjusting seasoning as needed.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Fraged in deep bowls to capture the rich broth and tender chunks. Pair it with a crusty bread to soak up every flavorful drop, and a glass of the same red wine used in the cooking for a harmonious dining experience.

Enjoying Fraged

Traditionally, Fraged is enjoyed surrounded by loved ones. The heartiness of the dish is perfect for a cold day, sitting by a wood fire. Take your time savoring each bite, appreciating the depth of flavor achieved through hours of slow cooking. As you enjoy the meal, share stories and laughter, echoing the spirit of friendship and family inherent in the origins of this delightful dish.