Slow-Cooked Lamb & Veg Recipe for Kids in Bali
Discover how to make a delicious and nutritious slow-cooked lamb and vegetable dish with sweet potato and carrot mash, perfect for families visiting or living in Bali with kids.
This Bali-inspired recipe uses local spices and fresh ingredients to create a comforting weaning meal for four kids.
Table of Contents
What is Slow-Cooked Lamb & Veg?
This hearty recipe combines tender lamb, nutritious vegetables, and a creamy sweet potato and carrot mash. Designed as a weaning meal, it is flavorful yet gentle for young palates, making it ideal for children.
With a touch of Balinese-inspired spices, this dish becomes a cultural culinary experience.
Balinese Inspiration for This Recipe
Balinese cuisine is known for its vibrant spices and fresh, tropical ingredients.
In this recipe, traditional lamb stew is enhanced with local flavors such as galangal, lemongrass, and turmeric. The addition of coconut milk gives the dish a creamy, fragrant base that kids will love.
Ingredients for Bali-Inspired Slow-Cooked Lamb (Serves 4 Kids)
For the Lamb and Veg:
400g lamb shoulder, diced
2 medium carrots, sliced
1 small zucchini, diced
1 cup green beans, trimmed and halved
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp turmeric powder
1 tsp ground coriander
1 tsp galangal paste
1 stalk lemongrass, bruised
200ml coconut milk
200ml water or stock
1 tbsp vegetable oil
Salt and pepper to taste
For the Sweet Potato & Carrot Mash:
2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
2 tbsp unsalted butter (or coconut oil for a dairy-free option)
A pinch of salt
Step-by-Step Guide to Making This Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Wash and dice the lamb into bite-sized pieces. Peel and chop the vegetables as described.
Trim green beans and slice them evenly for consistent cooking.
Step 2: Sear the Lamb
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or slow cooker on sauté mode. Brown the lamb pieces for 3-4 minutes until golden.
Work in batches if needed to avoid overcrowding. Remove and set aside.
Step 3: Cook the Aromatic Base
In the same pan, sauté the onion and garlic until translucent. Add turmeric, coriander, and galangal paste. Stir for 1-2 minutes until the spices release their aroma.
Step 4: Combine and Slow Cook
Return the lamb to the pot. Add coconut milk, water, and the bruised lemongrass. Stir well. Incorporate carrots, zucchini, and green beans.
Cover with a lid and slow-cook on low heat for 6-8 hours (or high heat for 3-4 hours), stirring occasionally.
Step 5: Prepare the Sweet Potato & Carrot Mash
Boil sweet potatoes and carrots in salted water until fork-tender (about 15-20 minutes). Drain and transfer to a bowl.
Mash with butter (or coconut oil) until smooth. Adjust salt to taste.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Place a generous scoop of mash on each plate. Ladle the lamb and vegetables over the mash, ensuring even distribution of sauce.
Garnish with fresh coriander and a wedge of lime for a burst of freshness.
Tips for Perfect Bali-Style Presentation
Banana Leaf Bowls: Line your serving dishes with fresh banana leaves for a natural, tropical aesthetic. Secure the edges with toothpicks to create a bowl shape.
Layered Plating: Use a ring mold to shape the sweet potato and carrot mash into neat rounds. Place the lamb stew on top for an elegant presentation.
Traditional Utensils: Serve the dish on woven bamboo trays and use wooden spoons for a rustic, island-inspired feel.
Edible Flowers: Garnish the dish with edible Balinese flowers such as marigolds or frangipani petals for a vibrant touch.
Incense and Decor: Present the dish alongside small Balinese offerings or burning incense for a cultural dining experience.
Coconut Shell Bowls: Serve smaller portions in halved coconut shells for a unique and authentic style.
Detailed Recipe Overview and Cost for Bali Families
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours
Servings: 4 kid-sized portions
Estimated Cost in Bali: IDR 120,000-150,000
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
Calories
310 kcal
Fat
15g
Cholestrol
50mg
Sodium
300mg
Carbohydrates
25g
Protein
18g
FAQs about This Recipe in Bali
Q1: How can I adjust the spice level for younger kids?
A: Reduce or omit the turmeric and coriander for a milder flavor while retaining the sweetness of the coconut milk and vegetables.
Q2: Are there alternative garnishes unique to Bali?
A: Yes, you can use fried shallots or shredded fresh coconut as garnishes, both commonly used in Balinese cuisine.
Q3: Can I cook this recipe using traditional Balinese cooking methods?
A: Absolutely! You can slow-cook the dish in a clay pot over charcoal, a method often used in Bali to enhance the flavors.
Q4: Is this dish served during specific Balinese festivals?
A: While not traditional festival food, the dish’s use of local ingredients aligns with Bali’s focus on fresh, seasonal offerings during celebrations.