Are you looking for a show-stopping yet surprisingly simple dinner recipe? Look no further! This recipe for boneless lamb shoulder delivers tender, juicy, and flavorful meat that will impress your family and friends. It's perfect for a special occasion or a comforting weeknight meal. This easy recipe is a fantastic example of homemade cooking at its finest, yielding a delicious dish that’s both healthy and satisfying. It's one of the best recipes for a reason!
Ingredients:
- 3-4 lb boneless lamb shoulder, butterflied (ask your butcher to do this)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp rosemary, finely chopped
- 2 tbsp thyme, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 large onion, quartered
- 4 carrots, peeled and chopped
- 4 potatoes, peeled and quartered
- 1 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
Preparing the Lamb:
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
- In a small bowl, combine olive oil, rosemary, thyme, garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Rub this mixture generously all over the butterflied lamb shoulder.
Roasting the Lamb:
- Place the quartered onions, chopped carrots, and potatoes in the bottom of a large roasting pan.
- Place the seasoned lamb shoulder on top of the vegetables.
- Pour the chicken broth into the bottom of the roasting pan.
- Roast for 2.5-3 hours, or until the lamb is fork-tender and the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) for medium-rare. Use a meat thermometer to ensure accuracy.
Serving:
- Remove the lamb from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful roast.
- Carve the lamb against the grain into thin slices.
- Serve the lamb with the roasted vegetables and pan juices.
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- For extra flavor, marinate the lamb overnight in the herb and garlic mixture.
- If you prefer a crispier lamb, increase the oven temperature to 400°F (200°C) during the last 15-20 minutes of cooking. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.
- Don’t overcrowd the roasting pan. Allow for sufficient space around the lamb for even browning.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They are also delicious sliced cold in sandwiches!
Variations:
- Add other vegetables to the roasting pan, such as parsnips, sweet potatoes, or Brussels sprouts.
- Use different herbs, such as oregano, sage, or marjoram, to customize the flavor.
- For a richer flavor, add a splash of red wine to the roasting pan.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the size of your lamb shoulder and the number of servings. However, a general estimate per serving could be:
- Calories: Approximately 400-500
- Protein: Approximately 40-50g
- Fat: Approximately 25-35g
This boneless lamb shoulder recipe is a fantastic example of a quick dinner idea that's far from ordinary. Enjoy this healthy meal, a true testament to delicious dishes achieved through simple, homemade cooking techniques. It's guaranteed to become one of your best recipes for easy weeknight dinners or special occasions!