In the heart of Mallorcan kitchens, a cherished culinary tradition awaits during the Easter season: Frit Mallorquín, or Fried Mallorcan Lamb. This iconic dish, deeply rooted in the island's gastronomic heritage, combines tender lamb, flavourful offal, and a medley of aromatic spices to create a dish that epitomises the essence of Mallorcan cuisine.

Frit Mallorquín is a dish steeped in history, with origins dating back centuries. It is believed to have Sephardic influences, bearing resemblances to Judeo-Sephardic and Arabic stews. References to this delectable dish can be found in ancient recipe books such as the Llibre de Sent Soví, dating back to the 14th century, attesting to its enduring popularity and significance in Mallorcan cuisine.

Ingredients:

Offal of young lamb or small suckling pig

1 bunch of spring onions

1 large red pepper

4 medium potatoes

Peas can be added to the dish depending on preference

4 cloves of garlic

2 bay leaves

3 small chilli peppers

1 bunch of fennel

Salt, pepper, sweet paprika

Olive oil

Method:

To embark on the culinary journey of Frit Mallorquín, meticulous preparation is key. Begin by cutting all the ingredients into small pieces, ensuring uniformity in size. The spring onions should be finely chopped, while the potatoes are diced into small squares.

Prepare the offal by cutting it into bite-sized pieces and marinating it with salt, pepper, garlic, and bay leaves. Next, sauté the offal until cooked through, then set aside in a casserole dish.

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In the same pan, sauté the spring onions with salt, pepper, and garlic, followed by the addition of finely chopped fennel. Once softened, transfer to the casserole dish with the offal.

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Continue building layers of flavour by sautéing garlic, bay leaves, and chilli peppers in the pan, adding a touch of sweet paprika for depth of flavour. Combine with the offal mixture in the casserole dish.

Lastly, sauté the diced potatoes with garlic and salt until golden brown, then add them to the casserole dish, mixing all the ingredients together. Allow the flavours to meld together over gentle heat, infusing the dish with richness and complexity. Serve the Frit  piping hot, allowing each bite to transport you to the rustic kitchens and festive tables of Mallorca.

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As Easter approaches, embrace the spirit of tradition and savour the flavours of Mallorca with this time-honoured delicacy. Frit Mallorquín is not just a dish; it's a celebration of heritage, culture, and the joy of coming together to enjoy a meal with loved ones.

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