Description
The roast lamb leg is a classic show-stopper for family gatherings and festive occasions. The secret to achieving tender and melt-in-the-mouth meat? Slow, gentle cooking. By roasting at moderate temperature for several hours, the lamb develops deep flavour and remains incredibly juicy.
Ingredients
- 1 lamb leg (approx. 2.5 kg)
- 4 garlic cloves
- 3 sprigs of fresh rosemary
- Bay leaves
- Thyme (fresh or dried)
- 50 g butter
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- Fine salt & coarse salt
- Black pepper (freshly ground)
- 2-3 onions (sliced into rings)
- 250 ml vegetable or lamb stock (optional)
Instructions
– Preparation
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Rub the entire surface of the leg generously with fine salt to enhance flavour and help the meat absorb the seasoning.
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Using a sharp knife, make small incisions in the lower part of the leg (the “souris”). Tuck half or whole garlic cloves into the slits, depending on their size.
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Make a few incisions on the opposite side as well, but avoid cutting too deeply so the juices stay inside the meat.
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Slide sprigs of fresh rosemary into some of the cuts to infuse the lamb with its fragrant, earthy aroma.
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Slice the onions into thick rings and arrange them in the bottom of the dish to form a flavourful bed. Add a few bay leaves, then place the lamb leg on top.
– Seasoning & Oiling
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Drizzle the lamb generously with olive oil and massage it over the surface.
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Sprinkle with chopped rosemary, thyme, coarse salt and freshly ground black pepper. Add another light drizzle of oil to help everything adhere.
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Scatter a few whole garlic cloves (left in their skins) around the meat for a mellow, caramelised garlic taste. Add a couple more bay leaves on top.
– Cooking
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Set your oven to 180°C (fan-assisted).
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Cook for roughly 30 minutes per 500 g for a juicy, slightly pink finish.
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After the first 30 minutes, pour half a glass of boiling water into the bottom of the dish to prevent the juices from burning.
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If the pan dries out, add a splash of water or stock. Use small amounts so the meat doesn’t steam too much.
– Resting
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Once cooked, remove the lamb from the oven and spoon some of the cooking juices over the top. Cover loosely with foil.
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Allow the meat to rest for at least 30 minutes before carving. This essential step lets the juices redistribute, resulting in tender, succulent slices.
- Prep Time: 20 min
- Cook Time: 2 hours 30 min
- Category: Oven-baked, roast, main dish
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 195 kcal