Scotch Broth and Crispy Lamb Belly

Author: Scott Stokes

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 3 hours
Yield: 6 servings

Recipe Introduction:

Indulge in the heartwarming flavors of this classic Scottish dish. The Scotch Broth features tender lamb, root vegetables, and barley simmered in a flavorful broth until they are perfectly tender. Served with crispy lamb belly for added texture and richness, this dish is a true delight. It’s the perfect comfort food for chilly days or when you crave a hearty meal that will satisfy your taste buds and warm your soul.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb lamb belly, skin removed
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Scotch Broth:
• 1 lb lamb shoulder, bone-in
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup pearl barley
• 8 cups lamb or vegetable broth
• 2 sprigs fresh thyme
• 2 bay leaves
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. Season the lamb belly with salt and pepper. Heat the vegetable oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add the lamb belly and sear on all sides until browned and crispy, about 4-5 minutes per side.
3. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and roast the lamb belly for 2-2.5 hours, or until it becomes tender and the fat is rendered. Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Slice into crispy pieces.
4. In a large pot, combine the lamb shoulder, diced onion, carrots, celery, minced garlic, pearl barley, lamb or vegetable broth, thyme sprigs, and bay leaves. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 2-2.5 hours, or until the lamb shoulder is tender and the flavors have melded together.
6. Remove the lamb shoulder from the pot and shred the meat using a fork. Discard the bones and any excess fat. Return the shredded lamb meat to the pot and stir well.
7. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Simmer the Scotch Broth for an additional 15-20 minutes.
8. To serve, ladle the Scotch Broth into bowls and top each serving with crispy lamb belly pieces. Garnish with fresh parsley.
9. Enjoy the heartwarming flavors of Scotch Broth and Crispy Lamb Belly!

Note: The prep time for this recipe is estimated to be around 20 minutes, and the cook time is approximately 3 hours. The yield is 6 servings.