Lamb & Eggplant with Chiles over Orzo

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    Lamb & Eggplant with Chiles over Orzo
    • 4Servings

    Ingredients

    • Salt and pepper
    • 3/4 pound orzo or small penne rigate
    • 2 tablespoons EVOO
    • 1 pound ground lamb
    • 1 small, firm eggplant, peeled and chopped into 1/4-inch pieces
    • 2 fresh chile peppers, such as red fresno, holland or jalapeno, seeded and finely chopped
    • 1 onion, finely chopped
    • 2 large cloves garlic, chopped
    • 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, finely chopped
    • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
    • 1 can (15 oz.) crushed tomatoes or 2 cups passata or tomato puree
    • 1 cup chicken or beef stock
    • 1/2 cup dry white wine
    • 1/2 cup finely chopped mixed fresh parsley and mint
    • 1 cup feta crumbles
    • 2 tablespoons butter

    Preparation

    Bring a large pot of water to a boil, salt it, add the orzo (or penne) and cook until al dente. Drain and return to the pot.

    While the pasta is working, in a large skillet, heat the EVOO, 2 turns of the pan, over medium-high heat. Add the lamb and cook until well browned, about 10 minutes; season with salt and pepper.

    Stir the eggplant, chiles, onion, garlic and rosemary into the lamb. Partially cover and cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the tomato paste for 1 minute. Stir in the tomatoes, chicken (or beef) stock and wine. Lower the heat and simmer until thickened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the parsley and mint.

    Toss the pasta with the feta and butter. Serve in bowls and make a well in the center. Spoon in the spicy lamb.