Lamb Tagine with Prunes

Preparation

1. Step 1

   Put the butter in a wide skillet with a lid and place over high heat. When the butter foam subsides, add the lamb, a little at a time. Let sear, undisturbed, for about 2 minutes, then turn and continue to cook until the meat is nicely browned all over, about 10 minutes; sprinkle the meat with salt and pepper as it browns. While the meat is browning, soak the prunes in the liquid. When the meat is browned, transfer it to a plate and turn the heat to medium.

   Step 2

   Add the onion, garlic, ginger, honey, allspice, cayenne, and cinnamon, along with a little more salt and pepper, and cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion softens, about 10 minutes. Return the lamb to the skillet along with half the prunes and their soaking liquid. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat so the mixture simmers. Cover and let the mixture simmer for about 45 minutes, stirring once or twice during that period; if at any point the mixture threatens to dry out, add a little water, wine, or stock. (You can prepare the dish to this point and let sit for a few hours or cover and refrigerate for up to a day before reheating and proceeding.)

   Step 3

   When the lamb is just about tender, add the remaining prunes, re-cover, and continue to cook until they and the lamb are soft, about 15 minutes more. Add the lemon juice, taste and adjust the seasoning, garnish, and serve.

2. Lamb Tagine with Fresh Fruit

   Step 4

   Best with quince, if you can get a hold of any: In place of the prunes, use 4 quinces, apples, or not-too-ripe pears, trimmed and cored. Add the fruit all at once; quinces will need up to 45 minutes of cooking time, apples and pears just 30 minutes or so.