Name: Kuzu Guvec – Turkish Lamb Stew Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 1 h 45 min
Total time: 2 h 5 min
Cuisine: Turkish
Ingredients: 700 g lamb, diced; 1 tablespoon butter; 10 shallots, peeled; 2 large potatoes, sliced into large cubes; 2 medium green peppers, diced; 2 medium carrots, diced; 4 cloves garlic, peeled; 2 large tomatoes, diced; ½ teaspoon black pepper; 1½ teaspoons salt; 1 tablespoon tomato paste; 3 sprigs thyme; 1 cup water, hot

Jump to Recipe· 3.9 from 42 reviews

If you’re craving a hearty, comforting dish that showcases the rich flavors of tender lamb cooked with vibrant vegetables and aromatic herbs, then you absolutely must try this Kuzu Guvec – Turkish Lamb Stew Recipe. This classic Turkish stew is everything you want in a home-cooked meal: warm, satisfying, and bursting with layers of flavor. The slow-cooked lamb becomes irresistibly tender, while the blend of potatoes, peppers, and carrots soak up the stew’s savory tomato base, making each bite a delightful experience. If you’ve never ventured into Turkish cooking before, this dish is a flavorful and approachable introduction that feels like a big, warm hug in a bowl.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows two photos side by side featuring a large metal pot on a white marbled surface. On the left, the pot is filled with chopped colorful vegetables including green peppers, red peppers, orange carrots, white onions, mushrooms, and chunks of meat. A woman's hand holds a small glass bowl of red tomato sauce above the pot, about to pour it in. On the right, the pot now holds a thick stew with a rich red sauce and visible pieces of yellow and orange vegetables, chunks of meat, and fresh thyme on top. A white cloth with red stripes lies to the side under the pot. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

To create this authentic and soul-warming stew, you only need a handful of simple, fresh ingredients. Each one plays its part to elevate the dish, whether it’s the richness of the lamb, the creaminess of the potatoes, or the fragrant touch of thyme. Let’s dive into exactly what you’ll need to bring this Kuzu Guvec – Turkish Lamb Stew Recipe to life.

700 g lamb diced: Choose a cut with a bit of marbling for juicy, tender results when slow-cooked.
1 tablespoon butter: Enhances the overall richness and adds a silky texture to the base of the stew.
10 shallots peeled: Their mild sweetness perfectly balances the lamb’s savory depth.
2 large potatoes sliced into large cubes: Adds hearty bulk and absorbs the stew’s flavorful sauce wonderfully.
2 medium green peppers diced: Bring a fresh, slightly sweet crunch that brightens the stew.
2 medium carrots diced: Infuse natural sweetness and vibrant color, creating visual and taste appeal.
4 cloves garlic peeled: Adds a bold, aromatic depth that lingers beautifully in every spoonful.
2 large tomatoes diced: The base of the stew’s sauce, offering acidity and juicy freshness.
½ teaspoon black pepper: Gives a subtle bite that spices up the dish without overpowering.
1½ teaspoons salt: Essential to bring out the natural flavors of the meat and vegetables.
1 cup water hot: Helps to gently simmer all ingredients together, melding flavors.
1 tablespoon tomato paste: Concentrated tomato flavor that enriches the stew’s color and taste.
3 sprigs thyme: This classic herb imparts an earthy, fragrant note that ties the stew’s flavors together.

How to Make Kuzu Guvec – Turkish Lamb Stew Recipe

Step 1: Prepare and Brown the Lamb

Start by heating the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Once melted and bubbling, add the diced lamb. Brown the meat evenly on all sides until it develops a beautiful golden crust. This searing step locks in the lamb’s juices and brings a rich depth of flavor to the stew, setting a robust foundation for the Kuzu Guvec – Turkish Lamb Stew Recipe.

Step 2: Add Shallots and Garlic

Next, toss in the whole peeled shallots and garlic cloves. Stir them gently with the lamb, allowing their sweetness and aroma to infuse the cooking fat. The shallots soften while the garlic mellows, combining to create a savory base that complements the heartiness of the lamb.

Step 3: Incorporate Vegetables

Add the diced green peppers, carrots, potatoes, and tomatoes directly to the pot. Give everything a good mix so all ingredients get coated with the buttery, lamb-infused flavor. These vegetables will cook slowly, soaking up the tomato-rich juices while contributing texture and vibrant colors to the stew.

Step 4: Season and Add Liquids

Sprinkle the salt and black pepper evenly over the ingredients. Stir in the tomato paste, ensuring it’s well distributed for a deeply rich flavor. Pour in the hot water and add the thyme sprigs on top. Together, these elements create the aromatic, flavorful broth that is the heart of the Kuzu Guvec – Turkish Lamb Stew Recipe.

Step 5: Simmer Until Tender

Bring the pot to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover with a lid and let the stew simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the lamb is meltingly tender and the vegetables are soft but intact. This slow cooking melds all the flavors beautifully, resulting in a stew that’s rich, comforting, and deeply satisfying.

How to Serve Kuzu Guvec – Turkish Lamb Stew Recipe

A white shallow bowl holds a hearty stew with about three layers of visible ingredients: chunky pieces of brown meat, large cubes of yellow potato, thick rounds of orange carrot, and small whole onions, all mixed in a rich red-orange broth. A small sprig of green thyme lays on top as garnish. A silver spoon rests inside the bowl on the right side. Next to the bowl, there are two thick slices of light brown crusty bread placed on a white cloth with red stripes. The setting is on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To enhance the experience, sprinkle fresh chopped parsley or a few sprigs of thyme on top before serving. A drizzle of high-quality olive oil adds a touch of silkiness and a fresh aroma that complements the stew’s richness perfectly.

Side Dishes

Serve this stew with simple steamed rice or a warm, crusty bread to soak up every last drop of the flavorsome sauce. A crisp, refreshing cucumber and yogurt salad also pairs wonderfully, offering a cool contrast that balances the stew’s warmth and depth.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re feeling adventurous, serve this stew in individual rustic clay pots or deep bowls to echo the traditional Turkish serving style. Garnish with a wedge of lemon for guests to squeeze on top, lending a bright, zesty note that elevates the entire dish.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Kuzu Guvec – Turkish Lamb Stew Recipe tastes even better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to cool it completely before refrigerating to maintain its rich texture and taste.

Freezing

This stew freezes beautifully for longer storage. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty bags and freeze for up to 3 months. When freezing, try to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn and preserve the lamb’s tender texture.

Reheating

To reheat, thaw it overnight in the fridge if frozen, then warm gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. Adding a splash of water or broth during reheating restores the stew’s luscious consistency without diluting its flavor.

FAQs

Can I use beef instead of lamb for this recipe?

While lamb’s unique flavor is key to authentic Kuzu Guvec – Turkish Lamb Stew Recipe, you can substitute beef if preferred. Just choose a well-marbled cut like chuck and give it the same slow cooking time for tender results.

Is it necessary to use whole shallots, or can I chop them?

Using whole shallots gives the stew a milder, sweeter aroma and a more rustic feel, but chopping them finely is an acceptable alternative if you prefer them to blend more thoroughly into the sauce.

Can I prepare this dish in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! After browning the lamb and sautéing the shallots and garlic, transfer everything to your slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours for tender, flavorful results that match the stovetop version.

What type of potatoes work best for Kuzu Guvec?

Waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold hold their shape well during slow cooking and absorb flavors beautifully. Avoid floury potatoes that tend to break down too much in the stew.

How spicy is this stew?

This Kuzu Guvec – Turkish Lamb Stew Recipe uses just black pepper for subtle warmth. If you enjoy a bit more heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a chopped green chili.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a dish that embodies comfort, tradition, and incredible flavor, the Kuzu Guvec – Turkish Lamb Stew Recipe is a fantastic choice. It’s perfect for cozy evenings spent with loved ones, sharing a meal that not only fills the stomach but also warms the heart. Give it a try, and you might just find your new favorite stew to make again and again.