Herb-Infused Roast Leg of Lamb with Garlic and Rosemary
This delectable herb-infused roast leg of lamb is a centerpiece dish that we enjoy once or twice a month, bringing delicious flavors and tender meat to our family gatherings. Highlighted by the aromatic blend of fresh rosemary and garlic, the lamb is slow-roasted to perfection, allowing the savory juices to create a delightful experience. For a twist, consider placing sliced potatoes and sautéed onions in the pan to absorb the rich, garlicky drippings – a true comfort food that never fails to impress.
6
Servings
N/A
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
Leg of lamb
4 1/2 lbs (Bone-in, remove excess fat)
Garlic cloves
2 (Cut into thin slivers)
Fresh rosemary
2 tablespoons (Chopped finely)
Olive oil
1 tablespoon (For brushing)
Salt
to taste (For seasoning)
Fresh ground pepper
to taste (For seasoning)
Water
3/4 cup (For roasting)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2
Using a sharp knife, make small slits all over the leg of lamb, both on the top and bottom sides.
3
Insert the garlic slivers and finely chopped rosemary into the slits to infuse the meat with flavor.
4
Brush the entire surface of the lamb with olive oil, then generously season with salt and fresh ground pepper.
5
Place the lamb on a wire rack set inside a roasting pan. Pour 3/4 cup of water into the bottom of the pan to keep the meat moist during cooking.
6
Roast the lamb for approximately 2 hours, basting it frequently with the pan juices to enhance the flavor and moisture.
7
Once cooked, remove the lamb from the oven and cover it loosely with aluminum foil. Let it rest for about 15 minutes before carving; this allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat.
8
Serve the roast leg of lamb with a selection of roasted vegetables, peas, rich gravy, and mint jelly for a traditional accompaniment.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe makes approximately 6 servings.
What is the recommended oven temperature?
The oven should be preheated to 350 degrees Fahrenheit or 175 degrees Celsius.
What weight of leg of lamb is required?
You will need a 4 and a half pound bone-in leg of lamb.
How much garlic is used in this recipe?
The recipe calls for 2 garlic cloves, cut into thin slivers.
What herbs are featured in the roast?
Fresh rosemary is the primary herb used, requiring 2 tablespoons finely chopped.
How do you incorporate the garlic and rosemary into the meat?
Make small slits all over the meat and insert the garlic slivers and chopped rosemary into them.
Why is olive oil used?
Olive oil is used to brush the entire surface of the lamb before seasoning.
What basic seasonings are added to the lamb?
The lamb is generously seasoned with salt and fresh ground pepper.
Should I use a roasting rack?
Yes, place the lamb on a wire rack set inside a roasting pan.
Why is water added to the roasting pan?
Adding 3/4 cup of water to the bottom of the pan helps keep the meat moist during roasting.
How long is the total roasting time?
The lamb should roast for approximately 2 hours.
Is basting necessary?
Yes, basting the meat frequently with pan juices enhances flavor and moisture.
What is the importance of resting the meat?
Resting allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat for a more tender result.
How long must the lamb rest after roasting?
It should rest for about 15 minutes before carving.
What are traditional side dishes for this meal?
Traditional sides include roasted vegetables, peas, rich gravy, and mint jelly.
Can I add potatoes to the roasting pan?
Yes, placing sliced potatoes in the pan to absorb the rich, garlicky drippings is a suggested variation.
Are onions a good addition to the pan?
Sautéed onions can be placed in the pan to absorb the savory juices.
What should I do with excess fat on the lamb?
You should remove excess fat from the leg of lamb before preparing the slits.
Is this recipe suitable for family gatherings?
Yes, it is described as a centerpiece dish perfect for family gatherings and holiday cooking.
How do I make the slits in the lamb?
Use a sharp knife to make small slits on both the top and bottom sides of the leg.
What is the recipe category?
This recipe is categorized under Lamb/Sheep.
What kind of pepper should I use?
The recipe specifies using fresh ground pepper for seasoning.
What size should the garlic pieces be?
The garlic should be cut into thin slivers to fit into the meat slits.
Is this recipe considered comfort food?
Yes, the description identifies it as a true comfort food that never fails to impress.
How often does the author suggest making this?
The description mentions enjoying this dish once or twice a month.
What does the water in the pan prevent?
The water prevents the meat from drying out during the slow-roasting process.
How do I cover the lamb while it rests?
Cover it loosely with aluminum foil to keep it warm without trapping too much steam.
Should the rosemary be fresh or dried?
The recipe calls for fresh rosemary to provide an aromatic blend of flavors.
Does the recipe include nutritional information?
No, nutritional values like calories and fat are not provided in this specific data.
What is the total number of ingredients?
There are 7 total ingredients required for this herb-infused roast leg of lamb.