Ingredients

  • 3 tablespoons sunflower oil
  • 2 tablespoons capers, drained and patted dry
  • 8 ounces lamb loin
  • sea salt and freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 cup carrot, diced
  • 1/4 cup onion, sliced
  • 2 tablespoons garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon ground caraway
  • 2 teaspoons dried chiles
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • lemon juice to taste
  • 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped

Method

  • In a medium saute pan over high heat, heat the oil to 375F, as measured on a deep-fry thermometer.
  • Crisp the capers in the oil, for about 1 minute.
  • Transfer to paper towels to drain.
  • Season the lamb liberally with salt and pepper.
  • Return the saute pan to the stove over high heat and briefly sear the lamb for about 30 seconds per side; the lamb should still be raw on the inside.
  • Transfer to a small tray lined with plastic wrap and place in the freezer to chill until the lamb is partially frozen.
  • It should have a slushy feel.
  • Remove the lamb from the freezer and slice it crosswise as thinly as possible; the slices should be a little thicker than sheets of paper.
  • In a medium saucepan over high heat, combine the carrot, onion, garlic and spices.
  • Cover with water and cook until the water has fully reduced and the carrots are very tender.
  • Transfer to a blender and puree until very smooth.
  • With the motor running, drizzle in 2 tablespoons of the olive oil.
  • Season with the lemon juice and salt.
  • Transfer the carrot harissa to a squeeze bottle or small tightly sealed plastic container and chill in the refrigerator.
  • Lay out the sliced lamb on four chilled plates and top with dots of the harissa sauce.
  • Garnish with the capers, remaining olive oil and cilantro leaves.
  • Serve immediately.