South African Bobotie

Ingredients

• 2 lbs ground lamb or beef
• 2 large onions, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 slices white bread, crusts removed
• 1 cup whole milk
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 2 tbsp curry powder
• 1 tsp ground turmeric
• 1 tsp ground coriander
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp ground cloves
• 2 tbsp apricot jam
• 2 tbsp chutney
• 2 tbsp white wine vinegar
• 1/3 cup raisins
• 1/3 cup slivered almonds
• 6 bay leaves
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 3 large eggs
• 1/2 cup heavy cream

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
2. Soak bread slices in 1/2 cup milk until soft, then mash with a fork and set aside.
3. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté onions until golden, about 8 minutes. Add garlic and cook 1 minute more.
4. Add ground meat to skillet, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until browned, about 8-10 minutes.
5. Stir in curry powder, turmeric, coriander, cumin, cinnamon, and cloves. Cook until fragrant, about 2 minutes.
6. Add soaked bread, apricot jam, chutney, vinegar, raisins, and almonds. Season with salt and pepper. Mix well and cook 3 minutes.
7. Transfer mixture to prepared baking dish and smooth top. Insert bay leaves evenly across surface.
8. Whisk together eggs, remaining 1/2 cup milk, and heavy cream. Pour custard mixture over meat.
9. Bake for 30-35 minutes until custard is set and golden brown on top.
10. Let rest 5 minutes before serving. Remove bay leaves before eating.