Description
Ingredients:
- 2 kg leg of lamb (bone-in or boneless)
- 4 cloves of garlic, sliced
- 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
- 250 ml red wine (optional, for deglazing)
- 250 ml chicken or vegetable stock
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F).
- Prepare the Marinade:
- In a bowl, mix together the olive oil, Dijon mustard, chopped rosemary, chopped thyme, salt, and black pepper.
- Make small incisions (about 2-3 cm apart) all over the leg of lamb using a sharp knife. Insert the garlic slices into these incisions.
- Marinate the Lamb:
- Rub the marinade all over the leg of lamb, ensuring it’s evenly coated. If time allows, let it marinate for at least 1 hour (or overnight in the fridge for maximum flavor).
Cooking
- Roasting:
- Place the leg of lamb on a roasting rack in a roasting pan. This helps with even cooking.
- Pour red wine and chicken stock into the bottom of the pan for moisture and flavor.
- Roast in the preheated oven for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until it reaches your desired doneness. For medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of 60-63°C. For medium, 65-70°C.
- Basting:
- Halfway through the cooking time, baste the lamb with the juices from the pan. This keeps the meat moist and adds flavor.
- Resting:
- Once the lamb is cooked, remove it from the oven, cover it loosely with aluminum foil, and let it rest for about 15-20 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute within the meat.
Serving
- Carve and Serve:
- Carve the leg of lamb into slices and serve it with your choice of sides, such as roasted vegetables, potatoes, and a fresh salad. Spoon the pan juices over the slices for added flavor.
Tips
- If you have a meat thermometer, using it is the best way to achieve your desired doneness.
- Consider making a gravy with the pan juices if you like.
- Pair your roast with a nice red wine and festive sides for a perfect Christmas feast.