How To Cook Lamb:
Though millions of people enjoy the delicious flavor, some are intimidated by the idea of cooking lamb. It’s a myth that lamb is harder to serve than beef and pork, and once you know how to prepare it, you’ll never look back.
The key to getting succulent lamb every time is using the right cooking method for the right cut. In this post, we’ll show you several different cooking methods and the cuts that are best for each.
We’ve also come up with the top tips on preparing lamb – simple ways to get great results every time.
Lamb Preparation
Make sure and select American lamb from your local grocer or supplier. Lamb from right here in the U.S. is fresher, yields better cuts, and comes with the assurance that you’re supporting family farms across the country.
To begin, allow the meat to come to room temperature before you start to cook it. This normally means taking it out at least an hour before preparing, depending on the size of the cut. Conversely, meat that goes directly from the cooler to the cooker takes longer to finish, and may cook unevenly.
While meat is coming to room temperature, this is a good time to rub in seasonings. This gives the spices a chance to soak in and subtly flavor the meat.
Herbs to Use while Cooking Lamb
- Mixed Herbs – If you want a burst of flavor without any fuss, mixed herbs will do nicely. Use a
generous amount and sprinkle over the meat while it’s coming to room temperature. - Coriander – Coriander is amazing spice to add to lamb if you want more of a Middle Eastern flavor. It does have a strong flavor, but it mixes extremely well with lamb meat.
- Oregano – Oregano is another winner, especially if you’re using tomato in the recipe.
- Rosemary – There’s a reason this is one of the most common lamb seasonings. Rosemary infuses the meat with a strong, almost peppery flavor. It tastes wonderful on lamb.
- Mint – Mint is another herb that is commonly served with lamb. Make a mint sauce to serve over slices, or use it in a dry rub before cooking. Of course, what list would be complete without this classic combination? Whether it’s in a sauce, herb crust, or simply tossed over after cooking, mint is the soulmate of beautifully roasted lamb.
Cooking Techniques
One of our top tips when it comes to cooking lamb is to ensure that you follow the instructions to the letter. Most recipes will call for you to allow the meat to rest for fifteen minutes or so before cutting into it.
This is not merely a suggestion; it’s an important part of making sure that the meat is done to perfection. If necessary, keep the meat warm before cutting by placing in a foil tent.
The meat will continue to cook for a while once out of the oven, even rising in temperature by a few degrees. This resting period also allows the juices to settle more evenly.
For best results, use a carving knife that is properly sharpened. Many grocers and butcher shops offer knife sharpening, often at no cost.
Ways To Cook Lamb
Much like beef, lamb is a versatile protein that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. Try each and discover your own favorite!
Grilling
We tend to think of grilling in terms of an outdoor barbeque, but you can also use the grill in the oven.
if you prefer. Grilling is a quick and easy way to prepare the meat. Lamb chops are an ideal cut for this method. Grilling is also a great way to cook skewers using more tender cuts.
Start by dry-brining your chops. Apply the salt as soon as you take the meat out of the refrigerator and set aside for an hour as explained above.
Check Out Some Of Our Favorite Grilled Lamb Recipes
Braising
Braising is done in the oven. With this method, you’ll first brown the meat using a small amount of fat. Then you’ll cook it in a covered container with a little water. In order to get this right, choose a container that has a tight-fitting lid. This helps to prevent the liquid from evaporating.
This is a great way to cook tougher, more-flavorful cuts of lamb. The meat needs to be cooked over low heat for a longer period of time. This can be done in an oven, in a slow cooker, or on the stove. Lamb shoulders and shanks are good choices for braising.
Check Out Some Of Our Favorite Braised Lamb Recipes
Roasting
This is the most common way for preparing lamb. It is a dry-cooking method that allows the outside to get nice and crusty while retaining the moisture inside. Here you should use a more tender cut (such as lamb loin, rack, or leg) as it will be cooked uncovered, allowing the moisture to evaporate quickly.
A lamb roast is normally cooked until medium-rare. You’ll preheat the oven to 325°F and allow 15 to 20 minutes of cooking time per pound of meat. It is essential to allow the meat to rest before carving it.
Check Out Some Of Our Favorite Roasted Lamb Recipes
Cooking Rotisserie Style
If you want to prepare a whole or half of a lamb, a rotisserie style barbeque is your best bet. The lamb will need to be basted often throughout the cooking process and turned occasionally.
These are just a few recommendations for enjoying delicious American lamb. For more, explore our recipes page.
