Sultan's Shiver

Sultan's Shiver is a mystical dish that hails from the ancient kitchens of the Ottoman Empire. Known for its rich flavors and intricate preparation, it was reserved for the Sultan and his esteemed guests. Historically, this dish was a symbol of luxury and was enjoyed during grand feasts. Crafted with layers of seasoned lamb and mixed with aromatic spices, it evokes a sense of wonder and delight. The art of preparing Sultan's Shiver has been passed down through generations, each adding their own twist to the original recipe.

Ingredients

• Lamb - 1 kg, diced
• Yogurt - 500 ml, plain
• Cumin - 1 tsp, ground
• Coriander - 1 tsp, ground
• Cinnamon - a pinch
• Garlic - 4 cloves, minced
• Onion - 2 large, finely chopped
• Olive Oil - 50 ml
• Lemon - 1, juiced
• Saffron - a few strands
• Salt - to taste
• Black Pepper - to taste
• Honey - 1 tbsp

Preparation

Marinating the Lamb

Begin by marinating the lamb cubes. In a large bowl, combine the yogurt, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, and garlic. Add the lemon juice and season with salt and black pepper. Mix well and coat the lamb pieces in the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, allowing the meat to soak up all the flavors.

Cooking the Onions

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onions and sauté until golden brown. This will take about 10-15 minutes. Once cooked, set the onions aside.

Cooking Process

Searing the Lamb

Remove the marinated lamb from the refrigerator. In the same skillet used for the onions, sear the lamb over medium-high heat until browned on all sides. Take care not to overcrowd the pan, and do this in batches if necessary. Once seared, set the lamb aside.

Bringing It All Together

Bring back the cooked onions to the skillet and reintroduce the seared lamb. Add the saffron, previously soaked in a tablespoon of warm water, and a drizzle of honey. Cover and let the dish simmer on low heat for about 45-60 minutes. Use a cooking timer to ensure optimal tenderness.

Final Touches

Check the seasoning and adjust if necessary. The Sultan's Shiver is now ready to be served, filling your kitchen with its enchanting aroma.

How to Enjoy Sultan's Shiver

This dish pairs beautifully with a bed of couscous or fragrant basmati rice. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for an added touch of freshness. Traditionally, it is accompanied by a selection of mezze such as hummus and baba ghanoush, completing an opulent dining experience fit for royalty.