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+ servings
Mary Kelly

Roasted Leg of Lamb

As I write about roasted leg of lamb, memories of family gatherings come flooding back. Imagine the scent of garlic, rosemary, and rich roasted meat wafting through the kitchen.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 5 hours 15 minutes
Total Time 5 hours 30 minutes
Servings: 8
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Western
Calories: 300

Ingredients
  

  • Lamb: A 2.25 kg 4.5 lbs bone-in leg of lamb. The bone adds flavor and tenderness.
  • Olive Oil: 1.5 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil for flavor and to help the herbs adhere.
  • Balsamic Vinegar: 1 tablespoon brings out the lamb's richness.
  • Herbs: 2 sprigs of fresh rosemary with an optional 4 for a bolder flavor.
  • Garlic: 1 whole garlic bulb halved horizontally, adding that beloved aroma.
  • Onion: 1 large onion quartered, for sweetness and depth.
  • Bay Leaf: 1 dried bay leaf to enhance the dish's aroma.
  • Beef Broth: 3 cups of low-sodium beef broth or homemade stock for gravy.
  • Salt and Pepper: Sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste.
For the Gravy:
  • Water: 1 cup for mixing with the flour.
  • All-Purpose Flour: 4 tablespoons to thicken the gravy.
  • Salt and Pepper: To taste.

Equipment

  • Oven, Pan

Method
 

Step 1: Prepare the Lamb
  1. Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s warming up, take the leg of lamb out of the refrigerator. This allows the meat to reach room temperature, ensuring even cooking. Pat the lamb dry with paper towels, which helps develop a beautiful crust.
Step 2: Season Generously
  1. Drizzle the olive oil over the lamb, making sure to coat it evenly. Rub the balsamic vinegar into the meat, enhancing the flavor. Generously season with sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper. Let’s not skimp on seasoning; it’s key to a flavorful dish.
Step 3: Add Herbal Goodness
  1. Take your garlic bulbs and rosemary sprigs, pressing them gently into the meat. The garlic will roast beautifully, becoming soft and sweet, while the rosemary infuses the lamb with its fragrant aroma.
Step 4: Prepare the Vegetables
  1. In a roasting pan, place the quartered onion around the lamb. You can also add other vegetables like carrots and potatoes if you’d like. They will soak up the delicious juices from the lamb.
Step 5: Pour in the Broth
  1. Pour the beef broth into the pan, ensuring it doesn’t touch the lamb directly. This broth will keep the meat moist while roasting and serve as the base for your gravy.
Step 6: Time for Roasting
  1. Cover the pan with aluminum foil, making sure it’s secure to trap in moisture. Place it in the preheated oven for about 2 hours. If you prefer medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (62°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure accuracy.
Step 7: Uncover and Caramelize
  1. After the initial roasting, uncover the lamb for the last 30 minutes. This step allows the surface to caramelize, resulting in a hearty, golden crust. Baste the lamb with the pan juices once or twice during this time.
Step 8: Rest the Meat
  1. Once the lamb reaches your desired temperature, it’s essential to let it rest for about 15 minutes before carving. Resting allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, enhancing the flavor and tenderness.
Step 9: Make the Gravy
  1. While the lamb rests, use the drippings in the pan to create your gravy. Pour the liquid into a saucepan and bring it to a simmer. In a separate bowl, mix the flour with water until smooth. Gradually whisk this mixture into the simmering liquid until thickened. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 10: Carve and Serve
  1. Now comes the exciting part: carving the lamb! Use a sharp knife to slice the meat against the grain. Serve it on a platter, drizzled with gravy, and accompanied by your favorite sides.

Nutrition

Calories: 300kcalProtein: 30gFat: 20g

Notes

Here are some tips to ensure your roasted leg of lamb turns out perfectly:
Buy Quality Meat: Invest in high-quality, grass-fed lamb for the best flavor.
Don’t Skip the Resting Time: Allowing the lamb to rest is crucial for juicy meat.
Use a Meat Thermometer: Precise cooking is key. Aim for medium-rare at 145°F.
Baste During Cooking: Periodically spoon the pan juices over the lamb to keep it moist.
Experiment with Flavors: Customize with different herbs and spices according to your preference.

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