So I got a good deal on some ground lamb and I wasn't finding any recipes I was particularly interested in this time, and I decided to make my own recipe! I don't know the EXACT measurements because I kinda just eyeballed it but I'll try my best to be accurate

Curry Basil Rice and Ground Lamb
Serves 4

Ingredients:
1 lb ground lamb
1 can chickpeas
1 medium onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
3/4 cups chopped fresh basil (divided in half)
1 tsp nutmeg + dash of nutmeg
1 tsp cumin + dash of cumin
1/2 tbsp garlic powder
1 tbsp onion powder
Cayenne Pepper Powder to taste OR red pepper flakes
salt+pepper


For Rice
1 cup rice
2 cups water
1 tsp chicken bouillon
1/2 tbs lemon juice
1/2 tbs curry seasoning

Directions:
1. Mix ground lamb with onion powder, garlic powder, cumin, nutmeg, salt, pepper, cayenne or pepper flakes, and half of the chopped basil
2. Add 1 cup rice to small pot, mix with chicken bouillon, curry seasoning, and lemon juice. Add 2 cups of water and bring to boil, then simmer on low, covered, for 18 minutes
3. While rice is cooking, cook lamb in a pan with a dash of olive oil at medium heat, breaking it apart and shifting it around until fully browned. Remove lamb from pan and rest on paper towel on a plate.
4. To meat juice and olive oil, add onions and cook until translucent, then add garlic and cook for another minute. Finally, add the chickpeas and some salt, pepper, a dash of cumin, and a dash of nutmeg. Stir it all together frequently, cooking for about 5-7 more minutes.
5. When rice is done, mix in remaining basil. Mix the meat back in with the onions and chickpeas. Then serve with rice on bottom, and meat mixture on top.

Enjoy!

Thoughts: I was a little nervous doing my own thing, but now I don't regret it at all. This came out super delicious and I would definitely make it again, maybe with mint next time. The lamb is well seasoned and the rice has a really nice flavor, and the chickpeas add an extra flavor and texture that makes every bite a nice little experience. I'm very proud of myself for this one, and have reminded myself that I can indeed cook without following anyone else's directions! The only thing is it would probably taste much better with tzatziki sauce, not that it's not good, it's great, but the sauce would definitely perfect it.