Eid al-Adha: Splurging on Lamb without Overspending

Eid al-Adha, also known as the Festival of Sacrifice, is one of the most important holidays in the Islamic calendar. It’s a time for prayer, reflection, and feasting with family and friends. Lamb is a central part of the celebration, but it can be an expensive meat. This guide will show you how to enjoy a magnificent lamb feast for Eid al-Adha without breaking the bank.

Buying Lamb on a Budget

• Look for Sales: Keep an eye out for sales on lamb in the weeks leading up to Eid al-Adha. Many grocery stores will offer discounts on lamb during this time.
• Choose Cheaper Cuts: You don’t need to buy expensive cuts of lamb to make a delicious feast. Lamb shoulder and leg are more affordable options that are perfect for slow cooking.
• Buy in Bulk: If you’re feeding a large crowd, consider buying a whole lamb or a larger cut and sharing it with family or friends. This can often be more cost-effective than buying individual cuts.

Recipe: Slow Cooker Lamb Tagine

This flavorful and tender lamb tagine is perfect for feeding a crowd. It uses a budget-friendly cut of lamb and is packed with aromatic spices.

• Ingredients:

  • 2 lbs lamb shoulder, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup dried apricots, chopped
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp ground cumin
  • 1 tbsp ground coriander
  • 1 tsp ground ginger
  • 1/2 tsp turmeric
  • 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

• Instructions:

  1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Brown the lamb on all sides. Remove the lamb and set aside.
  2. Add the onion to the skillet and cook until softened.
  3. Add the garlic, cumin, coriander, ginger, turmeric, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 1 minute more until fragrant.
  4. Stir in the diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and dried apricots. Bring to a simmer.
  5. Return the lamb to the skillet. Transfer the mixture to a slow cooker.
  6. Cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the lamb is tender.
  7. Stir in the fresh cilantro before serving. Serve with couscous or rice.

Other Budget-Friendly Eid al-Adha Dishes

• Rice Pilaf: A simple and affordable side dish that pairs well with lamb. You can make it with basmati rice, chicken broth, and a few spices.
• Lentil Soup: A hearty and nutritious soup that’s perfect for breaking the fast. It’s made with red lentils, vegetables, and a few simple spices.
• Homemade Sweets: Instead of buying expensive store-bought sweets, try making traditional Eid sweets at home. Many recipes use simple and affordable ingredients.

This Eid al-Adha, celebrate with a magnificent lamb feast that won’t break the bank. Eid Mubarak!