Garlic and thyme Lamb Pilaf

Prep everything first: chop the aromatics, measure the garlic and thyme elements, and pat the lamb dry so it colours well.

Warm the olive oil in a large pan over a medium heat and soften the onion and garlic until sweet and translucent, about 5 minutes.

Turn up the heat and add the lamb. Cover and cook low and slow, stirring now and then, until rich and spoonable.

Stir in the shallots and the rest of the garlic and thyme flavours, letting them cook out for a minute until fragrant.

Add the fennel along with a splash of stock or water, then cover and cook gently until everything is tender and the sauce clings.

Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper and a little acid. It should taste bright, savoury and balanced.

Finish with the chopped tarragon and serve while hot.