Sure! Here’s a detailed recipe for a Tender and Aromatic Herb-Infused Lamb Shoulder:
Ingredients:
- 1 lamb shoulder (approximately 3-4 lbs)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped
- 2 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh oregano, chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh mint, chopped
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup dry white wine or chicken broth
- 2 onions, quartered
- 4 carrots, cut into large chunks
- 4 potatoes, quartered (optional)
- Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Marinade:
- In a small bowl, combine the minced garlic, chopped rosemary, thyme, oregano, mint, lemon zest, lemon juice, olive oil, ground cumin, ground coriander, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well to form a paste.
- Marinate the Lamb:
- Rub the herb paste all over the lamb shoulder, ensuring it is well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to infuse.
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
- Prepare the Roasting Pan:
- Place the quartered onions, carrots, and potatoes (if using) in the bottom of a large roasting pan. These will act as a bed for the lamb and add flavor to the dish.
- Roast the Lamb:
- Place the marinated lamb shoulder on top of the vegetables in the roasting pan. Pour the white wine or chicken broth into the pan to keep the meat moist during cooking.
- Cover the pan tightly with aluminum foil.
- Slow Cook the Lamb:
- Roast the lamb in the preheated oven for 3-4 hours, or until the meat is tender and falls off the bone. Check occasionally and baste with the pan juices to keep the meat moist.
- Finish the Lamb:
- Remove the foil during the last 30 minutes of cooking to allow the lamb to brown and develop a crust.
- Rest and Serve:
- Once the lamb is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 15-20 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute and makes the meat more tender.
- Serve the lamb shoulder with the roasted vegetables and garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
Tips:
- Make Ahead: The lamb can be marinated a day in advance for more intense flavor.
- Variations: Try adding different herbs or spices to the marinade according to your taste preferences.
- Serving Suggestions: This dish pairs well with a simple green salad and crusty bread. For a more substantial meal, serve with couscous or mashed potatoes.
Enjoy your Tender and Aromatic Herb-Infused Lamb Shoulder!
