Lamb Trotters The Collagen Treasure: A Traditional Recipe with Unmatched Nutritional Value
The Hidden Power of Lamb Trotters
Lamb trotters, commonly known as “kaware’” in Arabic cuisine, are not only a beloved traditional dish in many Arab countries but also a nutritional gold mine packed with essential elements that boost over all health. They are aptly called "The Collagen Treasure" due to their richness in natural proteins and gelatin critical for maintaining healthy skin, joints, cartilage, tendons, and ligaments.
Contrary to the common belief that trotters are just fatty winter comfort food, this dish offers significant health benefits. It's known for relieving joint pain, restoring collagen levels, strengthening the immune system, and even enhancing digestion thanks to its gelatin content.
In this article, we will explore everything you need to know about lamb trotters:
Detailed health benefits.
Nutritional value.
How to select the best trotters.
Proper cleaning techniques.
Traditional cooking method with authentic flavors.
Ideal spices for trotters.
Tips for serving them deliciously and nutritiously.
What Are Lamb Trotters?
Lamb trotters refer to the lower part of the lamb’s legs, from the knee to the hoof. This section is rich in bones, marrow, connective tissues, and thick skin all of which are packed with natural collagen.
Although they are not muscle meat, they offer a high nutritional value, providing protein, calcium, phosphorus, and magnesium. This makes them ideal for those with joint issues or mineral deficiencies.
Health Benefits of Lamb Trotters (The Collagen Treasure)
Joint and Bone Support
The collagen and gelatin in trotters improve joint flexibility and reduce cartilage degradation, helping people with arthritis or knee issues.
Skin and Hair Health
Natural collagen in trotters enhances skin elasticity and boosts elastin production, leading to youthful, glowing skin and thicker hair.
Digestive Aid
Gelatin supports gut repair and reduces inflammation, making it beneficial for individuals with IBS or leaky gut syndrome.
Immunity Booster
Thanks to essential minerals like zinc and selenium, lamb trotters help reinforce the body’s natural defenses.
Energy Source
Trotters provide a solid energy boost, especially in winter, as the fats and proteins help maintain body warmth and vitality.
Nutritional Value of Lamb Trotters
Per 100 grams of cooked trotters:
Calories: 120–150kcal
Protein: 20–25 g
Fat: 3–6 g (mostly healthy fat)
High collagen and gelatin content
Calcium: 10–15% of daily needs
Phosphorus: 12%
Magnesium: 7%
Zinc and Selenium: variable depending on meat source
How to Choose Quality Trotters
Buy from a trusted butcher or clean, reliable source.
Choose marrow filled, thick boned trotters.
Prefer fresh over frozen for better nutritional retention.
Skin should be natural colored, not gray or overly dark.
The smell should be clean, without any foul odor.
Cleaning Trotters Before Cooking
Use a flame to burn off any remaining hair.
Rub thoroughly with lemon and salt to remove odor.
Soak in cold water with vinegar for one hour.
Wash thoroughly and boil in water once to remove impurities, then discard the water.
Traditional Lamb Trotters Recipe
Ingredients:
4 pieces of lambtrotters
1 large chopped onion
5 garlic cloves
1 tbsp fresh ginger
1 cinnamon stick
3 bay leaves
5 cardamom pods
Salt and pepper totaste
1 tsp turmeric
1/2 tsp chili powder
1.5 liters of water
Juice of one lemon
1 tbsp ghee
Preparation:
1. After cleaning, place the trotters in a pot with ghee and sauté onion and garlic until soft.
2. Add turmeric, chili, and ginger, and stir well.
3. Add trotters and mix over medium heat.
4. Add spices (cinnamon, cardamom, bay leaves).
5. Pour in water and simmer for 3–4 hours until fully tender.
6. Add lemon juice and cook for an additional 10 minutes.
7. Serve hot with white rice or Arabic bread.
Serving Tips
Sprinkle chopped coriander for extra flavor.
Serve with hummus or fattoush to balance the richness.
Broth can be stored and reused as a base for soups.
Extra Tips
Store leftover broth in the freezer for later use.
Avoid excessive hot spices to maintain collagen integrity.
People with high cholesterol should consume in moderation.
