As the weather cools down and the nights grow darker, there’s nothing quite like a warm, comforting bowl of lamb soup to lift your spirits. Whether you’re in the mood for something classic and comforting or bold and international-inspired, lamb soup is a versatile and delicious option that’s sure to become a new favorite. In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 hearty lamb soup recipes that are perfect for cozying up on chilly nights.
From traditional lamb and barley soups to more exotic variations featuring Moroccan spices and Middle Eastern flavors, there’s something for everyone in this collection of mouthwatering recipes. So grab your apron, sharpen your knife, and get ready to indulge in a culinary journey around the world – all from the comfort of your own home.
Classic Lamb and Barley Soup
A hearty and comforting soup that’s perfect for a cold winter’s day. This classic recipe combines tender lamb with nutty barley and aromatic spices to create a flavorful and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless lamb shoulder, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup pearl barley
– 4 cups lamb broth or beef broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the lamb and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the barley, broth, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour or until the lamb is tender.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Moroccan Spiced Lamb Harira
Harira is a traditional Moroccan soup that’s perfect for any time of year, and this recipe adds the rich flavor of lamb to make it even more satisfying. With its blend of aromatic spices and tender meat, this dish is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless lamb shoulder or neck, cut into small pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 4 cups chicken broth
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add garlic, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, turmeric, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
3. Add lamb and cook until browned, breaking up with a spoon as needed.
4. Add diced tomatoes and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the meat is tender.
5. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley or cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-60 minutes
Greek Avgolemono Lamb Soup
This traditional Greek soup is a comforting and flavorful blend of lamb, vegetables, and citrusy avgolemono sauce, perfect for a cozy meal or special occasion. With its rich aroma and velvety texture, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless lamb shoulder, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 stalks celery, chopped
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup white wine (optional)
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 2 eggs
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or dill, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Brown the lamb, then set aside.
2. Add onions, garlic, carrots, and celery; cook until tender, about 10 minutes.
3. Add broth, wine (if using), and browned lamb. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour.
4. Whisk together lemon juice and cornstarch. Stir into the soup and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
5. Beat in eggs until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or dill.
Cooking Time: About 2 hours
Slow-Cooked Lamb Shank and Lentil Soup
This rich and comforting soup is a perfect remedy for a chilly day. Tender lamb shanks and flavorful lentils come together to create a deliciously thick and savory broth.
Ingredients:
– 2 lamb shanks
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 carrot, chopped
– 1 celery stalk, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the slow cooker to low.
2. Season the lamb shanks with salt and pepper.
3. In a large skillet, brown the lamb shanks in a little oil over medium-high heat. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. Add the onion, garlic, carrot, and celery to the skillet and cook until the vegetables are tender.
5. Transfer the mixture to the slow cooker with the lamb shanks, diced tomatoes, lentils, vegetable broth, and thyme.
6. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 4-10 hours
Middle Eastern Lamb and Chickpea Soup
Warm Up with a Hearty Middle Eastern Lamb and Chickpea Soup
This comforting soup combines the rich flavors of lamb, chickpeas, and aromatic spices to create a satisfying and nutritious meal perfect for a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless lamb shoulder or ground lamb
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add lamb and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add onions and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Add diced tomatoes, chickpeas, and chicken broth.
6. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until lamb is tender.
7. Serve hot, garnished with parsley or cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Lamb and Vegetable Scotch Broth
This classic Scottish broth is a comforting and flavorful way to warm up on a chilly day. Rich lamb stock is combined with tender vegetables and aromatic spices, making it a perfect meal for any time of year.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound lamb bones (neck or shank)
– 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 4 cups lamb stock (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roast the lamb bones in a single layer for 30 minutes.
3. In a large pot, sauté the chopped onion, carrots, celery, and garlic until softened.
4. Add the roasted lamb bones, lamb stock, thyme, salt, and pepper to the pot.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour.
6. Strain the broth through a fine-mesh sieve and discard solids.
Cooking Time: 2 hours (including roasting time)
Persian Lamb and Spinach Soup
Warm up with a comforting bowl of Persian-inspired goodness! This hearty soup combines tender lamb, nutritious spinach, and aromatic spices for a delightful and filling meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless lamb shoulder or neck, cut into small pieces
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 4 cups lamb or beef broth
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add garlic, cumin, paprika, turmeric, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional minute.
3. Add lamb pieces and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Pour in broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes or until lamb is tender.
5. Stir in spinach leaves and parsley. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes or until spinach has wilted.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Lamb and Dumpling Stew
This recipe combines the rich flavor of lamb with the comforting warmth of homemade dumplings, creating a satisfying stew perfect for a cozy evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless lamb shoulder or neck, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 cups beef broth
– 2 tablespoons tomato paste
– 2 cups water
– 2 cups all-purpose flour (for dumplings)
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F.
2. In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the lamb in batches until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes per batch.
3. Add onions and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add flour, thyme, salt, and pepper; stir to combine.
5. Gradually add broth, tomato paste, and water; bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 1 hour.
7. To make dumplings, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add water to form a dough.
8. Drop spoonfuls of dough into the stew, covering the surface. Simmer for an additional 20-25 minutes or until dumplings are cooked through.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
Spicy Lamb and Tomato Soup
Warm up with this flavorful and spicy lamb and tomato soup that’s perfect for a cozy night in. This hearty soup combines the richness of lamb with the tanginess of tomatoes, all wrapped up in a spicy kick.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground lamb
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups chopped fresh tomatoes (or 1 can diced tomatoes)
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, cook the lamb over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the onions, garlic, tomatoes, bell pepper, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper to the pot. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 10 minutes.
3. Add the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
4. Use an immersion blender or transfer the soup to a blender to puree the soup to desired consistency.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. If desired, stir in heavy cream to add richness.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Lamb and Sweet Potato Curry Soup
Warm up with this flavorful and comforting curry soup that combines tender lamb, sweet potatoes, and aromatic spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless lamb shoulder or neck, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon curry powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat oil over medium-high heat. Add lamb and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot.
2. Add onions and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add curry powder, cumin, coriander, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add sweet potatoes, diced tomatoes, broth, and browned lamb. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer, covered, until sweet potatoes are tender, about 25-30 minutes.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Lamb and Orzo Lemon Soup
A bright and citrusy soup that pairs perfectly with a crusty loaf of bread or a side of warm pita chips. This recipe is perfect for a cozy night in or as a main course for a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless lamb shoulder, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add lamb and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add orzo, broth, lemon juice, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until orzo is tender.
4. Serve hot, garnished with parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lamb and White Bean Minestrone
This hearty Italian-inspired minestrone soup combines tender lamb with creamy cannellini beans, flavorful vegetables, and aromatic herbs. Perfect for a cozy evening meal or as a comforting side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless lamb shoulder, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cups cooked cannellini beans
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, chopped
– 2 stalks celery, chopped
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the lamb over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery; cook until vegetables are tender, about 8 minutes.
3. Stir in broth, tomatoes, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until lamb is tender.
4. Stir in cooked cannellini beans and adjust seasoning if needed.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Lamb and Wild Rice Soup
Warm up with a hearty bowl of lamb and wild rice soup, perfect for a chilly evening or as a comforting meal any time of the year. This savory blend of tender lamb, nutty wild rice, and aromatic spices is sure to satisfy your appetite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless lamb shoulder or ground lamb
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup cooked wild rice
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the lamb in chicken broth over medium heat until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the diced onion and minced garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in cooked wild rice, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Lamb and Kale Detox Soup
Reinvigorate your body with this nutrient-rich soup, packed with lean lamb, earthy kale, and aromatic spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless lamb shoulder or ground lamb
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups kale leaves, stems removed and discarded, leaves coarsely chopped
– 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the lamb and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Stir in the kale, chicken broth, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the lamb is tender.
4. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Lamb and Rosemary Potato Soup
This hearty soup combines the rich flavors of lamb, rosemary, and potatoes for a cozy and comforting meal perfect for a chilly evening. With its aromatic broth and tender chunks of lamb, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound lamb shoulder or neck, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– 4-5 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 4 cups chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the lamb and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot and set aside.
3. Add the onion and garlic to the pot; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the rosemary, potatoes, and broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
5. Stir in the cooked lamb and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with additional rosemary leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Lamb and Pearl Onion French Soup
Lamb and Pearl Onion French Soup: A hearty and aromatic soup that combines the rich flavors of lamb and caramelized pearl onions with a hint of French flair.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless lamb shoulder, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 large pearl onions, peeled and quartered
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup white wine (optional)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or chives for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the lamb and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
2. Reduce heat to medium. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add the pearl onions, chicken broth, wine (if using), thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lamb is tender.
4. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or chives.
Cooking Time: 45-60 minutes
Lamb and Carrot Ginger Soup
Warm up with this hearty and aromatic soup that combines the flavors of lamb, carrots, and ginger.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless lamb shoulder or shanks, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 2 medium carrots, chopped
– 2 inches fresh ginger, grated
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the lamb and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot and set aside.
3. Add the chopped onion to the pot and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
4. Add the grated ginger, minced garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Add the chicken broth, browned lamb, and chopped carrots to the pot.
6. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lamb is tender.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Lamb and Cabbage Irish Stew
This hearty stew is a classic Irish comfort food dish that’s perfect for a chilly evening. The lamb adds rich flavor, while the cabbage provides a nice crunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless lamb shoulder or shanks, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups chopped fresh cabbage
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 teaspoons tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 cups beef broth
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add lamb and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot.
2. Add onions and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add cabbage, carrots, tomato paste, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Add broth and browned lamb back to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until meat is tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Lamb and Quinoa Harvest Soup
Celebrate the harvest season with this hearty and flavorful soup, featuring tender lamb, nutritious quinoa, and a medley of autumnal vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless lamb shoulder, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 stalks celery, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the lamb and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot and set aside.
3. Add more oil if needed, then sauté onion, garlic, carrots, and celery until tender, about 8 minutes.
4. Add quinoa, broth, diced tomatoes, thyme, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir well.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until quinoa is cooked and lamb is tender.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Lamb and Mushroom Cream Soup
Rich and flavorful, this creamy soup is perfect for a cozy night in. With the tender flavors of lamb and earthy mushrooms, you’ll be warm and satisfied from start to finish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless lamb shoulder, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add lamb; cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add onion, mushrooms, and garlic; cook until vegetables are tender, about 8 minutes.
3. Pour in broth; bring to a boil. Reduce heat; simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Stir in cream and thyme. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get cozy on cold nights with these 20 hearty lamb soup recipes. From classic combinations like lamb and barley to international twists like Moroccan harira and Greek avgolemono, there’s something for everyone. Slow-cooked stews, comforting broths, and flavorful curries are all represented in this diverse collection. Whether you’re looking for a comforting dinner or a nourishing lunch, these recipes are sure to hit the spot. With ingredients like lentils, chickpeas, and vegetables adding texture and depth, these soups are perfect for a cozy night in.
