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Baked Lamb

17/11/2023

Baked lamb is a highly appreciated dish, especially on special occasions such as Easter. Here is a classic recipe for preparing baked lamb:

Ingredients

  • 1 lamb shoulder or leg (about 1.2 – 1.5 kg)
  • 2 cloves of garlic
  • Sprigs of fresh rosemary
  • Extra virgin olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 glass of white wine
  • Potatoes (optional, to accompany)

Preparation

  1. Preheat the oven to 180°C.

  2. Clean the meat by removing any excess fat.

  3. Take a baking tray and pour a drizzle of oil on the bottom.

  4. Make small cuts in the meat and insert the halved garlic cloves and some fresh rosemary sprigs.

  5. Place the lamb in the tray, and massage it with a drizzle of oil, salt and pepper, making sure to cover all parts.

  6. Pour the glass of white wine into the tray. The wine will help keep the meat soft and fragrant.

  7. Cover the tray with aluminum foil and bake the lamb.

  8. Cook for about 1 hour and 30 minutes. After the first 45 minutes, remove the aluminum foil to brown the surface of the lamb. During cooking, baste the meat occasionally with its cooking juices.

  9. If you wish to accompany the meat with potatoes, peel them, cut them into pieces and place them around the lamb in the tray, seasoning them with oil, salt, pepper and rosemary. The potatoes will cook together with the meat absorbing its flavor.

  10. The lamb will be ready when it is well browned on the outside and very tender on the inside. To check for doneness, you can pierce the meat with a fork; if it enters easily, it’s ready.

  11. Let the lamb rest for a few minutes before serving.

Curiosity

The tradition of eating lamb at Easter has ancient origins and is linked to various religious and cultural symbolisms. In Italian cuisine, lamb is often flavored with rosemary and garlic, which enhance the flavor without overwhelming it. Pairing a good rosé or a light red wine can complete the meal perfectly.

Baked Lamb