Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons garlic oil
  • 1 cup cubed pancetta
  • 1 pound ground lamb
  • 1/4 cup caramelized onions *available at gourmet and specialty stores as Onion Confit, or recipe follows
  • 1/3 cup Marsala
  • 1 (14-ounce) can diced tomatoes
  • 1/3 cup green lentils
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 1/2 cup grated red Leicester or Cheddar, optional

Method

  • Heat the oil in a wide, medium-sized saucepan, and fry the pancetta until beginning to crisp.
  • Add the lamb breaking it up with a fork in the bacony pan as it browns.
  • Tip in the caramelized onions, Marsala, tomatoes, lentils and water and bring the pan to the boil.
  • Simmer the ragu for 20 minutes stirring occasionally.
  • Sprinkle over the cheese before serving, if using.
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 cups sliced onions (about 2 medium size onions)
  • Heat a large saute pan over medium heat.
  • Add the olive oil and heat.
  • Add the onions and cook, stirring, until the onions are a deep golden brown and soft, about 25 to 30 minutes.
  • Make sure to use a gentle heat and cook the onions slowly so they don't burn.
  • Onions will keep in the fridge for up to 1 week.