Highland Ember

A Historical Background

The Highland Ember is a dish that hails from the sprawling landscapes of the Scottish Highlands. Known for its robust flavors and heartwarming ingredients, this dish has been a staple in the Highland culture for centuries. Traditionally consumed during the colder months, the Highland Ember combines the bounty of the land with unique local spices, embodying the spirit and warmth of the Highland people.

Ingredients

The key to a perfect Highland Ember is the quality of the ingredients. Ensure you have the freshest ingredients on hand:

• Lamb Shoulder - 1.5 kg
• Carrots - 2 large, sliced
• Potatoes - 3 medium, chopped
• Turnip - 1 medium, diced
• Onions - 2 large, chopped
• Garlic - 5 cloves, minced
• Rosemary - 2 sprigs
• Thyme - 1 tablespoon
• Salt - to taste
• Pepper - to taste
• Beef Stock - 500ml
• Olive Oil - 2 tablespoons
• Red Wine - 1 cup

Preparation

Step 1: Marinating the Lamb

Begin by marinating the lamb shoulder with garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cover tightly and let it sit in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or overnight for best results.

Step 2: Preparing the Vegetables

While the lamb is marinating, prepare your vegetables. Chop the carrots, potatoes, turnip, and onions. Set these aside until you begin cooking.

Cooking Process

Step 1: Searing the Lamb

In a large Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the lamb shoulder and sear each side until a golden crust forms, approximately 5 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Sautéing the Aromatics

In the same pot, add onions and sauté until translucent. Add the remaining garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Deglazing and Adding Vegetables

Deglaze the pot with red wine, scraping the bottom to lift any browned bits. Then, add in the carrots, potatoes, and turnip and stir to combine.

Step 4: Simmering

Add the beef stock and return the lamb shoulder to the pot. Cover, reduce the heat to low, and simmer for 2 to 3 hours, or until the lamb is tender and falling off the bone. Stir occasionally and check for seasoning, adding salt and pepper to taste.

Step 5: Rest and Serve

Once cooked, let the dish rest for about 10 minutes. Serve the Highland Ember hot, garnished with fresh rosemary.

How to Enjoy

The Highland Ember is best enjoyed with a glass of the same red wine used in cooking. Pair the dish with some crusty bread to soak up the rich, savory juices, and enjoy it in front of a roaring fire to truly capture the Highland experience. For a seasonally authentic side, consider boiling some additional turnips with salt until soft, and mashing them with butter.

Conclusion

The Highland Ember is more than just a meal; it's a culinary experience that brings the history and warmth of the Scottish Highlands into your home. Perfect for gatherings or a hearty family dinner, this dish is sure to captivate your taste buds and provide a memorable dining experience.