Leksour – Classic
This is the traditional, time-tested version of the dish. It stays true to its origins, using well-established techniques and ingredients that define its authentic flavor. A perfect starting point for exploring its evolution.
Country: 
Mauritania Servings: Serves 6
Mauritania Servings: Serves 6Leksour is a traditional Mauritanian stew that is both comforting and nourishing, often prepared to celebrate communal gatherings or family occasions. This dish combines rich flavors and wholesome ingredients typical of Mauritanian cuisine, offering a hearty meal with tender chunks of meat and vegetables in a savory broth seasoned with a blend of North African spices. The origins of Leksour are deeply rooted in the nomadic lifestyle of Mauritania’s people, where simple cooking techniques and readily available resources shaped its creation. The stew is typically served with couscous or flatbread, making it a fulfilling and quintessential representation of Mauritanian culinary heritage.
Ingredients
- lamb shoulder, cubed – 2 lbs / 900 g
- onions, diced – 2 large / 300 g
- carrots, sliced – 3 medium / 200 g
- potatoes, cubed – 3 medium / 400 g
- turnips, cubed – 2 medium / 300 g
- fresh tomatoes, chopped – 4 medium / 400 g
- tomato paste – 2 tbsp / 30 g
- garlic cloves, minced – 4 / 20 g
- ground cumin – 2 tsp / 5 g
- ground coriander – 1 tsp / 2 g
- ground cinnamon – 1/2 tsp / 1 g
- fresh cilantro, chopped – 1/4 cup / 15 g
- vegetable broth – 5 cups / 1.2 L
- olive oil – 3 tbsp / 45 ml
- salt – to taste
- black pepper – to taste
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onions and garlic, sauté until they are soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Place the cubed lamb into the pot, season with salt and pepper, and brown on all sides.
- Stir in the tomato paste, fresh tomatoes, cumin, coriander, and cinnamon. Cook for another 5 minutes until the tomatoes start to break down.
- Add the carrots, potatoes, and turnips to the pot.
- Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Reduce to a simmer and cover. Let it cook until the lamb and vegetables are tender, about 1.5 hours.
- Check seasoning and adjust the salt and pepper according to taste.
- Stir in the fresh cilantro before serving.
Substitutions
- lamb shoulder -> beef chuck
- vegetable broth -> chicken broth
- turnips -> parsnips
Enhancements in the Next Evolution
- Marinate the lamb in spices for an hour before cooking to enhance flavor.
- Add a pinch of saffron to the stew for more depth of flavor.
- Use homemade broth for richer taste.
Curious to see how this dish evolves? Discover refined flavors and enhanced techniques in the next version.
