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Picadillo Stuffed Peppers in Slow Cooker

1 (26-ounce) jar no-salt-added or regular marinara sauce
1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
½ teaspoon cumin
¼ teaspoon cinnamon
4 medium green bell peppers
10 ounces ground lean lamb
1 small zucchini, diced
½ cup quick-cooking barley
⅓ cup finely chopped onion
¼ cup raisins

In a large bowl, combine marinara sauce, vinegar, cumin and cinnamon.

Spoon 1½ cups mixture into a 4-quart or larger slow cooker. Slice off top ½ inch of peppers; seed peppers and reserve tops.

Add lamb, zucchini, barley, onion and raisins to remaining sauce; mix well.

Evenly spoon mixture into peppers (pack filling if necessary); replace tops. Stand upright in cooker.

Cover and cook on low 5 to 6 hours or until tender and when internal temperature of filling is 165 degrees. Serve with sauce.

Serves 4.
 


Smoked Irish-Style Lamb and Potatoes

1 lamb leg, boneless
3 tablespoons fresh rosemary
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons black pepper
2 tablespoons kosher salt
kitchen twine
15 medium potatoes
1 cup onion, diced
1 cup bell pepper, seeded and diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon salt
1 tablespoon black pepper

Prepare mixture for lamb in a small bowl. Butterfly lamb and place half the ingredients inside and rub remaining ingredients on surface of lamb. Close lamb leg and tie with kitchen twine to secure it. Place on the top shelf of smoker. Allow to smoke for about 4 hours at 225°. One hour after lamb has been in the smoker, place potatoes, onion: and bell pepper in sturdy pan. Sprinkle with minced garlic, salt and black pepper. Position the pan with potatoes under the lamb. Expect drippings from lamb to come into contact with potatoes. Allow potatoes to smoke for 2 to 2½ hours. Be sure to stir occasionally.
 


Roasted Lamb with Burnt Onions

¼ cup thick, plain whole-milk yogurt
2 medium green serrano chiles, cut lengthwise in quarters
1½ teaspoons finely grated fresh ginger (about 3-inch piece)
1½ finely grated garlic (about 3 large cloves)
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon ground turmeric
½ teaspoon cayenne
1½ pound leg of lamb, cut into 1½-inch pieces
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
3 tablespoons coarsely chopped almonds
3 tablespoons raisins
1 cup whole or low-fat milk
1½ tablespoons sugar

Burnt Onions

1 large or 2 medium yellow onions
½ cup canola oil

In a large bowl, mix together the yogurt, chiles, ginger, garlic, salt, turmeric and cayenne. Taste and adjust the salt if necessary. Add the lamb and coat well with the marinade; set aside in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours and up to 12 hours.

While the lamb is marinating, make the Burnt Onions. If not cooking the lamb right away, refrigerate the drained and now crisp onions in an airtight container until ready to use.

Remove the lamb from the refrigerator at least 1 hour before roasting. Preheat the oven to 400°.

Crumble the onions into the bowl with the lamb. Melt the butter in a skillet over low heat and separately toast the almonds until golden brown and the raisins until plumped, then set them on paper towels to drain. Scrape the butter into the marinating lamb. Pour the milk onto the lamb, add the sugar, and mix thoroughly.

Transfer the entire lamb mixture to a baking dish large enough to hold the lamb in a single layer. Cover tightly with a lid or foil and place in the middle of the oven. Roast, covered, for 1½ hours. The lamb will be cooked but not falling-apart tender, and the sauce will be thin. Uncover then continue roasting until the lamb is meltingly tender and the sauce has thickened, another 30 minutes.

Garnish with the almonds and raisins and serve.

For the Burnt Onions: Halve the onion(s) lengthwise and slice very thinly. Using your fingers, separate all the layers so you have individual half rings of onion. Heat the oil in a large skillet over high heat. Add the onions and stir until thoroughly coated with oil. Stop stirring, then leave the skillet on high heat. The onions on the periphery will start to brown first. Stir them into the center of the pan, spreading the onions out again into an even layer. Do this occasionally until all the onions begin to color. Resist the urge to stir constantly.

Now lower the heat to medium-low and cook until all the moisture has left the onions, about 20 minutes. Stir occasionally. The onions should turn a very dark brown without actually getting burnt. When all the onions are evenly browned and crisp, drain on paper towels. They will crisp further as they cool. If you are not going to use them right away, store in the refrigerator in a tightly sealed container. Serves 4.
 


Burgundy Lamb Chops

2 tablespoons vegetable oil
8 lamb loin or rib chops, cut 1-inch thick (about 1¾ pounds), well trimmed
1 medium onion, coarsely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon coarsely ground black pepper
8 ounces fresh mushrooms, thinly sliced
1 cup dry red wine
2 tablespoons cornstarch
¼ cup water

In large frying pan, heat oil over medium heat; add lamb chops, onion, garlic and pepper. Cook uncovered 10 minutes; turn chops once. Drain drippings. Add mushrooms and wine. Cook uncovered 14-15 minutes, or until tender. Combine cornstarch and water; stir into liquid in frying pan. Cook uncovered 2-3 minutes or until thickened; stir occasionally. Serves 4.
 


Pan-Sautéed Lamb Chops with Blackberry Sauce

8 small thick loin lamb chops (about 2 pounds)
freshly ground pepper
2/3 cup dry red wine such as Merlot
2/3 cup beef broth
2/3 cup fresh or frozen blackberries
2 tablespoons cold unsalted butter
salt

Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Season the lamb chops lightly with pepper. Arrange in the skillet and brown one side of the chops. Lower the heat to medium and cook the other side until medium-rare (6-8 minutes). Transfer the chops to a serving plate, tent with aluminum foil, and let rest while making the sauce.

Return the skillet to high heat. Pour the wine in the pan and let it bubble for a minute or two to reduce by half. Add the broth to the reduced wine, bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it cook at a low boil for 2 minutes. Add the blackberries and butter. Swirl the pan round so the butter melts evenly and heat the berries for a minute (not too long or they will break down; frozen berries take a bit longer than fresh.) Season with salt.

Place 2 chops per person on dinner plates, then drizzle the sauce directly on the chops and serve.
 


Sunny Lemon Chops

Lemon juice tenderizes lamb and adds a sparkle to the flavor of the meat. A simple green salad and fresh wheat rolls or crusty bread would complete this easy, yet elegant, supper. 4 servings.

8 loin or rib lamb chops, 1 to 2 inches thick, well-trimmed
1 tablespoon lemon-pepper*
2 fresh lemons, cut into quarters
2 tablespoons fresh oregano, minced or 1 tablespoon dried

Preheat broiler, or light the barbecue. Season chops with lemon-pepper. Place them on grill and cook to desired doneness. When done, remove to a platter. Squeeze quartered lemons over ach cop and sprinkle the oregano over tops.

*Variations:
Substitute one of the following for lemon-pepper:
1 tablespoon garlic salt or fresh minced garlic
1 tablespoon dried rosemary or fresh rosemary, crumbled
 


Swiss Chops

Swiss cheese lends a nutty flavor to these chops. 4 servings.

4 rib chops, trimmed of excess fat
4 thin onion slices
4 slices Swiss cheese

Broil chops in a preheated broiler for 7 minutes. Turn them over and broil for 5 minutes. Remove from oven and place onion and Swiss cheese on top. Broil for 2 minutes, or until cheese begins to melt.
 


Buffet Chops

This was always a staple item on my mother’s buffet menu. You can increase the number of chops to match the size of your buffet. 4 servings.

  • 4 (4-ounce) lamb chops, boned
  • 4 strips lean bacon
  • 4 toothpicks
  • ¼ cup Worcestershire sauce

    Preheat oven to 350˚F. Wrap a strip of bacon around each chop and fasten with a toothpick. Brush tops of chops with Worcestershire sauce and bake them on a rack for 35 minutes, or until bacon is crisp.
     

    Danish Blue Lamb Chops

    Blue cheese adds a zip to the chops. 4 servings.

  • 8 loin or rib lamb chops, 1 to 2 inches thick
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon pepper
  • 1 clove of garlic, minced
  • ½ cup Danish blue cheese or other strong blue cheese
  • 2 tablespoons thick cream

    Preheat the broiler. Brush chops on both sides with oil. Sprinkle with salt and pepper and spread minced garlic onto both sides of chops.

    Mix cream and cheese together to form a paste. Broil the chops for 5 to 6 minutes on each side. Remove from broiler and spread the cheese mixture on one side of each chop. Replace under broiler until cheese is light brown and bubbling.
     

    Honey-Mustard Lamb Chops

    If you want to make your own Dijon mustard for this recipe, check out a great book by Helene Sawyer called, Gourmet Mustards (Culinary Arts Ltd., Publishers). 2 servings.

  • 4 (4-ounce) loin chops, well-trimmed of fat
  • 1 clove garlic
  • 2 teaspoons fresh or ½ teaspoon dried rosemary
  • ¼ teaspoon pepper
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon-style mustard

    Cut garlic clove in half and rub chops with the cut side. Press rosemary and pepper onto both sides of chops. Place chops on a broiler rack. Stir honey and mustard together, set aside. Broil chops for 4 minutes; turn them over and spread with honey-mustard. Broil 4 minutes more, longer if you prefer well-done meat.
     

    Plum Perfect Chops

    I created this recipe last summer, when I had more preserves than jars and decided to improvise.
    4 servings.

  • 4 (4-ounce) loin chops, well-trimmed of fat
  • 2 teaspoons lemon juice
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon pepper
  • ½ cup plum preserves

    Rub lemon juice onto chops and arrange them in a shallow oiled baking dish. Broil for 4 minutes and turn them over. Sprinkle them with salt and pepper. Broil for 2 minutes. Spread plum preserves over and broil for an additional 2 minutes, or until done.
     

    Laura’s Basque Lamb Chops

    My friend, Laura, draws upon her Basque shepherding heritage for this surprising recipe that marries the flavors of Spain and France. She says Roquefort makes the difference! 2 servings.

  • 4 (1-inch thick) loin chops, well-trimmed of fat
  • 4 tablespoons butter, melted
  • 4 tablespoons Roquefort cheese
  • 4 tablespoons flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon pepper
  • 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
  • 2 tablespoons water

    Rub the chops with melted butter and sprinkle cheese on them. Pat the flour onto the top of the chops with the back of a spoon. Sprinkle the chops with the salt and pepper.

    Broil in a preheated broiler for 5 minutes. Remove from heat. Turn chops over and broil for another 5 minutes. Pour over the chops a sauce made with the Worcestershire sauce and water. Broil the chops 5 minutes longer.
     

    Omar Kayam Lamb

    A taste of the Middle East makes this an exotic dish to serve. Try it with the Mint Riata on page 114.
    4 servings.

  • 4 (3 to 4 ounces) rib chops, trimmed of excess fat
  • 4 tablespoons olive oil, divided
  • 1 cup cracked (bulgur) wheat
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 1 cup carrot, diced
  • 1 cup celery, diced
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon pepper
  • 2 teaspoons curry powder*
  • 4 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 1 cup water

    Brown cracked wheat in 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet. Transfer to a baking dish. Heat remaining olive oil and brown onion and chops, turning them frequently. Season with salt, pepper and curry powder. Add cornstarch and water, stirring until thickened. Adjust seasonings, if necessary.

    Preheat oven to 350˚F. Place browned chops and onion on top of wheat in baking dish. Add carrots and celery. Pour gravy over all and bake 1 hour in preheated oven.
     

    Pepper Chops
    The colors of the peppers make this an attractive dish to serve, as well as being very flavorful. 2 servings.

  • 4 (1½ inch thick) loin chops, trimmed of excess fat
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
  • ½ cup white onion, sliced
  • 1 clove garlic, peeled and minced
  • 1 cup red bell pepper, cut into strips
  • 1 cup green bell pepper, cut into strips
  • 1 cup yellow bell pepper, cut into strips
  • 1 cup diced tomato
  • 2 tablespoons dried basil
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon pepper
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar

    Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a skillet. Add chops and sauté over medium-high heat until browned. Remove to a platter and pour off any excess fat.

    Heat remaining oil in skillet and sauté onion and garlic. Add peppers and sauté for 2 minutes. Stir in tomato, basil, salt, pepper, broth and vinegar. Turn up heat, bring to a boil and add chops. Simmer chops in vegetable broth for 2 to 4 minutes.
     

    Remembrance Lamb

    Wine, rosemary and apples get it together for this fragrant lamb dish. Wide egg

  • pasta provides the perfect counterpoint. 6 servings.

  • 2½ pounds boneless loin of lamb, cut into 6 slices
  • ¼ cup vegetable oil
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon pepper
  • Wide egg noodles (optional)

    For the Sauce:
  • 2 cups Cabernet Sauvignon wine
  • 1 cup chicken stock
  • 2 scallions, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, peeled and chopped
  • 2 cups heavy cream
  • 3 tart apples, peeled, cored and chopped
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon-style mustard
  • 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary or ½ teaspoon, dried

    Preheat oven to 375˚F. Heat oil in skillet and sear lamb on both sides. Transfer lamb to an ovenproof platter and roast in oven for 10 minutes. Remove from oven and transfer to a serving platter. Cover the lamb and allow to “rest” while the sauce is being made.

    Simmer wine, chicken stock, scallions and garlic until they are reduced by half (about 30 minutes). Add cream, apples, mustard and rosemary. Allow to simmer for an additional 15 to 20 minutes, or until slightly thickened. For each serving, make a nest of cooked noodles, lay carved lamb in the nest, and pour sauce over.

    Tip:
    Lamb loin is best when slices on the bias.
     

    Minced Lamb Patties with Mint and Pinenuts

  • 2 pounds minced lamb-from the leg, preferably, so as not to be too high in fat content
  • 2 onions, skinned and diced
  • 1-2 fat cloves of garlic, skinned and diced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 ounces pinenuts
  • 2 ounces mint, leaves stripped from the stalks and chopped
  • 1 large egg, beaten
  • 2 ounces fine breadcrumbs
  • 3 ounces plain flour sieved with 1 teaspoon salt and a good grinding of black pepper
  • oil for frying, either olive or sunflower seed oil

    Dipping Sauce

  • ½ pint thick plain yogurt
  • 1 tablespoon chopped mint leaves

    Heat the olive oil and fry the diced onions until completely soft and transparent, and beginning to turn golden brown at the edges. Add the diced garlic and cook for a further minute. Scoop the onions and garlic into a bowl and cool.

    In a mixing bowl, put the minced lamb, breadcrumbs, beaten egg, cooled onions and garlic, and the chopped mint and pinenuts.

    Mix very thoroughly - this is easiest done using your hands. Divide the mixture into even-sized small balls, about the size of a walnut, then flatten each with the palm of your hand.

    Coat each in seasoned flour. Heat oil in a sauté pan to a depth of around 1 cm and when hot, fry the patties for about 1 minute on each side. Remove to a warm dish lined with a double thickness of kitchen roll.

    Mix together the yogurt and chopped mint, and serve the patties with this dipping sauce. Serves 6.
     

    Lamb Kofte
    (Cigar Shaped Meatball)

  • 1 pound lean ground lamb
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 egg, beaten
  • ½ cup dry bread crumbs
  • 1 tablespoon dried onion flakes
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon ground cardamom
  • 1 teaspoon dried parsley flakes
  • ½ teaspoon ground coriander
  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt
  • ¼ teaspoon dried mint
  • ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 tomato, diced
  • ½ green bell pepper, thinly sliced
  • ½ red onion, sliced

    In a medium bowl, combine ground lamb with garlic, egg, bread crumbs, onion flakes, cumin, cardamom, parsley, coriander, salt, mint and pepper, Mix until well blended.

    Form the lamb mixture into elongated sausage shapes and place them in a shallow dish, cover and refrigerate for a minimum of 20 minutes or up to one day. Meanwhile, preheat grill. We use only all natural lump charcoal. Grill for 7 to 9 minutes, or until lamb is no longer pink inside and reaches an internal temperature of 170°.

    Serve in wraps with tomatoes, peppers, onions and top with Greek yogurt sauce.

    Wrap Recipe

  • 1 cup milk
  • ¼ cup honey
  • ¼ cup margarine
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 2¼ teaspoons (1 package) active dry yeast
  • ¼ cup warm water
  • 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
  • 4 cups all-purpose flour, divided
  • 1 egg

    Scald milk, remove to large bowl. Add honey, margarine and salt to milk; stir until margarine is melted. Set aside to cool until lukewarm.

    Combine yeast, warm water and sugar; stir until sugar is dissolved. Set aside.

    Add 1½ cups of the flour to lukewarm milk mixture and beat well. Mix in egg and yeast mixture. Add remaining flour, a little at a time, until sticky dough is
    formed. Turn out on a floured surface; knead about two minutes. Dough will be sticky, but don't add more flour. Place dough in oiled bowl, turning once to oil whole surface of dough. Cover with plastic wrap and let stand in warm place until doubled in bulk.

    Punch down dough; divide into 16 equal pieces. Roll each piece to a thin rough circle about 8-10 inches in diameter.

    Heat a large dry skillet over medium-high heat; do not use any oil. Bake 15 seconds, flip and bake about 10 seconds on other side, until mottled brown spots appear. Cool and store in a plastic bag. Makes 16.
     


    Lamb with Gratin of Turnips

  • 2 pounds turnips, peeled, trimmed and cut crosswise into very thin slices
  • ¾ teaspoon salt, plus more to taste
  • ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, plus more to taste
  • 2¼ cups heavy cream
  • 2 racks of lamb, bones trimmed (frenched), 12 to 14 ounces each
  • Canola oil, for the skillet
  • extra-virgin olive oil for drizzling
  • Sel gris (organic French sea salt), for finishing

    Preheat the oven to 400°. Lightly grease an 8-by-8-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking oil spray.

    Toss together the turnip slices, salt and pepper in a large bowl, then layer the slices evenly in the baking dish. Drizzle the cream on top. Bake for about 1¼ hours, until bubbly and browned on the top: the turnips will be tender in the center when pierced with a knife. Transfer to a wire rack to cool while you prepare the lamb.

    Heat a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.

    Cut both of the lamb racks in half to make 4 equal portions; season all over with salt and pepper to taste.

    Pour just enough oil in the skillet to coat the bottom. Add the lamb and sear for a few minutes on both sides. Reduce the heat to medium and cook, turning as often as necessary to brown all over, for about 20 minutes or until the internal temperature of the meat registers 135° on an instant-read thermometer (medium-rare) or longer, depending on the desired degree of doneness.

    Transfer the racks to a cutting board; let rest for about 5 minutes before cutting each rack in half (so there are two 2-chop portions for each serving). Divide among individual plates; drizzle with extra-virgin olive oil and sprinkle with the sel gris. Serve warm, with portions of the gratineed turnips. Serves 4.
     

    Lamb Burgers

  • 1 pound ground lamb
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • ½ teaspoon ground cumin
  • ½ teaspoon oregano
  • 1 large garlic clove, crushed
  • 1 finely chopped onion

    Mix all ingredients together with hands in a mixing bowl and form into patties. Grill patties and serve on a good quality roll, topped with yogurt sauce.

    Yogurt Sauce

  • 1 small plain yogurt (6 ounces)
  • 1 large garlic clove, crushed
  • cucumbers, diced and seeded
  • Thoroughly mix together.
     

    Lamb with Spaghetti Squash and Sautéed Pears

  • 1 pound spaghetti squash, halved lengthwise and seeded
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons plus 1/4 cup minced shallots
  • ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • pinch of freshly grated nutmeg
  • ½ cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon garam masala
  • kosher salt and black pepper
  • 4 (8 ounces) lamb steaks, I used lamb shoulder but you could also use chops
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 firm but ripe pears, peeled and chopped
  • 1 teaspoon fresh ginger root, minced
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest, grated
  • 2 tablespoons dry white wine
  • 2 tablespoons brandy or pear brandy
  • 1 cup chicken stock
  • ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • ¼ cup toasted pumpkin seeds, chopped

    In a large pot, place the squash, cut side down, and fill the pot with 2 inches of water. Bring to a boil. Cover and reduce to simmer. Cook for 25 minutes or until skin can easily be pierced with a knife. Remove, drain, and cool.

    After the squash is cool enough to handle, using a fork, scrape flesh off skin into long spaghetti like strands. Discard the skin.

    In a large sauté pan, heat 2 table-spoons butter over medium heat. Add 2 tablespoons of shallots and cook for 2 minutes or until softened. Add the cinnamon and the nutmeg. Add the squash, stirring to coat. Cook, stirring for 1 minute. Remove from heat and keep warm until ready to serve.

    In a shallow dish, season flour with garam masala. Season lamb steaks or chops generously with salt and pepper. Then, lightly dust lamb in flour, shaking off excess.
    In another large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter and 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the steaks and cook until golden on each side, about 4 minutes. Remove and cover to keep warm.

    Add the remaining shallots to the pan and cook stirring for 1 minute. Add the pears and cook for another 2 minutes, or until softened. Add the ginger, zest, wine, and brandy. Bring to a boil. Stirring to deglaze the pan. When the liquid is reduced by half, add the stock. Swirl in 1 more tablespoon of butter and add accumulated juices from the resting lamb. Stir and remove from heat.

    To serve, place spaghetti squash in the middle of 4 plates. Top with lamb steaks or chops and spoon sauce over the top of the whole dish. Garnish with parsley and pumpkin seeds. Serves 4.
     

    Lamb Liver Stroganoff

  • 2 pounds of lambs' liver, trimmed of membrane and sliced into finger thick strips
  • 1 heaped tablespoon plain flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt, about 20 grinds of black pepper
  • 4 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 onions, skinned and thinly sliced
  • 1-2 fat cloves of garlic, skinned and diced finely
  • 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil-as well as the above amount finely chopped parsley

    Start by roasting the mushrooms, put the sliced mushrooms into a roasting pan with the 3 tablespoons olive oil. Rub the mushroom slices with the olive oil and then roast in a hot oven, 400°F, for 20 minutes. Take out of the oven.

    Meanwhile, put the flour, salt and pepper into a large polythene bag and add the strips of trimmed lambs' liver. Close the top of the bag and shake the contents vigorously, to coat each strip with seasoned flour.

    In a large sauté pan heat the 4 tablespoons olive oil and fry the sliced onions for 5 minutes, stirring, until they are soft and transparent. Then stir in the garlic and cook for a further minute.

    Scoop the onions and garlic from the pan on to a warmed dish, raise the heat under the pan and add the floured liver. Stir fry briskly for a couple of minutes, then replace the onion, and the roasted sliced mushrooms into the pan, and stir in the double cream, stirring until it bubbles.

    Cook for barely half a minute, once bubbling, draw the pan off the heat, dish up on to a warmed serving dish and dust liberally with chopped parsley. This is good with plain boiled basmati rice and a mixed leaf salad. Serves 6.
     

    Lamb Chops with Curried Pears

  • 12 single lamb chops
  • 2 teaspoons plus 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 sprig rosemary, leaves torn off stem
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt (½ teaspoon table salt)

    For the Spicy Pears
  • 2½ tablespoons butter
  • 1 jalapeno pepper, quartered, seeds removed
  • 1 teaspoon curry powder
  • 1 tablespoon fresh-squeezed lime juice
  • 3 tablespoons honey
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 3 pears, cored and cut into 6 wedges each

    Slather the lamb chops with 2 teaspoons of olive oil and rosemary. Let marinate at room temperature for 15 minutes or overnight in the refrigerator.

    To core a pear, lop off the top and the very bottom of the pear. Gut the pear in half, starting from the top at the stem end. Since I don't have a melon baller, I use a measuring spoon - the 1-teaspoon spoon is the perfect size and shape to remove the core. Gut cored pear into wedges, lengthwise. You can cook with apples instead of pears; just increase the cooking time by 10 minutes.

    The jalapeno pepper is to flavor the butter so that you get a subtle, spicy tingle on your lips instead of a jab-in-the-¬mouth type of spicy. If you want spicy, add another jalapeno.

    In the meantime, make the spicy pears. Heat a frying pan over medium heat. Add the butter, and when the butter is bubbling add the jalapeno pepper and the curry powder. Sauté for 1 minute, until the curry and pepper is fragrant. Take care not to burn the mix; you may have to turn the heat down. Whisk in the lime juice, honey and the soy sauce. Add the pears and stir to coat the pears. Cover, turn the heat to low and let simmer for 10 minutes until the pears are softened. Discard the jalapeno peppers.

    Season the lamb chops with salt. Heat a frying pan over high heat. When the pan is very hot, add the 1 tablespoon of olive oil and swirl to coat. Add the lamb chops in a single layer, not touching. Fry for 2-3 minutes each side, depending on thickness of the lamb chops. Serve with spicy pears. Serves 4.
     

    Basil-Nut Pesto Stuffed Leg of Lamb

    Fresh basil lends its own special character to this pesto. (A prepared pesto works well, if you're in a hurry.) Nice served with fresh pasta and a spinach salad. 6 to 8 servings.

    1 (5-pound) leg of lamb, boned and rolled

    Pesto:

  • 1 cup fresh basil, torn into pieces 4 tablespoons walnuts
  • 2 cloves garlic
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon pepper

    Preheat oven to 350˚F. Place basil, walnuts, garlic and 1/4 cup olive oil in a food processor or blender. Blend at high speed for 1 minute. Carefully unroll roast and spread pesto onto the center. Re-roll and re-net the roast.

    Brush roast with the tablespoon of olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste. Roast at 350˚F for 12 to 15 minutes per pound. Let stand at room temperature for 15 minutes before slicing.
     

    Saucy Hazelnut Lamb Rack

    Oregon hazelnuts are a key ingredient in this unusual rack of lamb that features a hazelnut sauce. Fresh fettuccine is my choice to accompany this excellent dish. 4 servings.

  • 1 (3-pound) rack of lamb,
  • trimmed of excess fat
  • 2 cups unsalted chicken stock
  • ½ cup dry white wine
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon pepper
  • 2 small turnips, peeled and diced
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
  • ⅓ cup chopped roasted hazelnuts*

    Preheat oven to 450°F. To make sauce, combine chicken stock and wine in a small saucepan and boil rapidly until reduced by half, about 10 minutes. Add salt, pepper and turnips. Simmer until turnips are tender. Set aside.

    Brush the bottom of a heavy skillet or roasting pan with oil. Set pan over high heat and quickly sear the lamb on all sides. Place meat in an ovenproof pan and roast for 10 to 15 minutes. This produces a medium-well done lamb rack.

    Stir roasted hazelnuts into the sauce and reheat. Slice rack into six servings, and spoon sauce over the meat.

    * To roast hazelnuts, chop them coarsely and put on a baking sheet in a 350°F oven for 10 minutes.
     

    Lamb Rack with Hazelnuts

    Hazelnuts used to be called filberts. These nuts, by any name, are wonderful to use in cooking. The Oregon Hazelnut Marketing Board kindly shared this tempting and slightly nutty flavored recipe.
    4 servings.

  • 1 (3-pound) rack of lamb, trimmed of excess fat
  • ¼ cup vegetable oil
  • 2 tablespoons ground hazelnuts
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon pepper
  • ⅓ cup chopped roasted hazelnuts*
  • 3 dried figs, coarsely chopped

    Preheat oven to 400°F. Rub the rack with 2 tablespoons of oil. With fork tines, press ground hazelnuts onto meat. Season with salt and pepper. Heat oil in a large saute pan until hot. Place rack, meat side down in the pan and brown well. Turn over and place the pan in the oven for 15 to 20 minutes. Remove the rack and allow to sit for 5 minutes.

    Arrange the rack in a circular fashion. Garnish the center with chopped, roasted hazelnuts and dried figs.

    * To roast hazelnuts, chop them coarsely and put on a baking sheet in a 350°F oven for 10 minutes.
     

    Minted Marinated Crown

    Mint seems to be a perfect herb for lamb - its cool flavor marries with the richness of the meat.
    4 servings.


  • 1 (8-pound) crown, (2 or 3 ribs per serving)
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon pepper
  • Mint Marinade:
  • ½ cup mint sauce*
  • 1 cup white rice wine vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • ⅓ cup lemon juice
  • 4 cloves garlic, crushed
  • 1 cup sliced white onion
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 2 tablespoons dried and crumbled mint leaves
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • Fresh mint springs for garnish (optional)

    Combine all ingredients for the marinade in a bowl large enough to hold the crown roast. Marinate for at least 12 hours (overnight works best). Turn roast occasionally.

    Preheat oven to 350°F. Remove roast from marinade and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Roast for 2 hours, basting with marinade every 30 minutes.

    *See page 113 to make your own.
     

    Marinated Rack of Lamb

    An unusual combination of ingredients combine to make a marinade you will dream about. Summer or winter, a salad of fresh greens with a simple oil and vinegar dressing is a nice, cool accompaniment to this flavorful meat with a loaf of French bread. 8 servings.

    1 (8-pound) rack of lamb, trimmed of excess fat

    Burgundy Marinade: (Yields 2½ -quarts to reuse on other meats, fish or poultry. If not using immediately, freeze.)

  • 1½ cups soy sauce
  • ¼ cup Worchestershire sauce
  • 2 cups Burgundy wine
  • 1 cup chopped onion
  • 1 teaspoon garlic salt
  • 1½ teaspoons pepper
  • 1½ teaspoons oregano
  • ⅓ cup fresh lemon juice

    Combine all ingredients. Marinate rack of lamb approximately 6 hours, turn at least once.
    Arrange the rack in a circular fashion. Garnish the center with chopped, roasted hazelnuts and dried figs.

    Preheat oven to 350˚F. Place rack, fat side up, on a broiling pan and bake for 50 minutes.

    Remove rack and cut off the top layer of fat. Place rack on a hot barbecue grill or in your oven for 15 minutes, basting with additional marinade.
     

    Herb & Garlic Stuffed Leg of Lamb

    This festive entree is good served with a special rice pilaf. Ask your butcher to prepare a boned and rolled leg of lamb. Serves 10 to 12.

  • 1 (6-pound) boneless leg of lamb
  • 1/2 cup fresh chopped parsley
  • 2 tablespoons fresh chopped green onions
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme or 1 teaspoon dried 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon pepper
  • 1/2 cup fresh white bread crumbs
  • 2 cloves garlic, peeled and minced

    Preheat oven to 325°F. Mix herbs, spices and garlic together with bread crumbs and spread evenly over the inside of the roast. Carefully re-roll and re-net roast. Place roast on a rack in a roasting pan and bake for 20 minutes per pound.

    To serve, cut netting away from the meat and discard it. Slice meat so the interior of the herbed bread crumbs are in the center of each serving slice.
     

    Easter Crown of Lamb

    This is a favorite at our house at Easter. We always serve small red potatoes in parsley butter and fresh asparagus with it. 6 servings.

  • 1 (6-pound) crown roast, well-trimmed
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon pepper

    Herb Stuffing:
  • ½ cup chopped celery
  • ½ cup chopped onion
  • 2 tablespoons butter or margarine
  • 1 beef bouillon cube
  • 1½ cups hot water
  • 4 cups unseasoned dry bread cubes or stuffing cubes
  • 1 carrot, coarsely grated
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon marjoram
  • 1 egg, beaten

    Preheat oven to 325°F. Season crown with salt and pepper. Place roast, ribs ends down, on a rack and bake for 1½ hours.

    To make the stuffing:
    Saute celery and onion in butter. Dissolve bouillon cube in hot water and combine it with all the remaining ingredients, mixing well. Remove the roast from oven and turn so that rib ends are up. Turn rack into a circle and fill the inside with stuffing. Return to oven for an additional 1 to 1½ hours, or until desired doneness is reached.
     

    Lamb Chops in Cheese Jackets

  • 4 lamb cutlets or rib chops
  • flour
  • salt and pepper
  • 1 egg
  • 1 tablespoon water
  • ½ cup grated hard cheese
  • ¾ cup breadcrumbs
  • 4 tablespoons oil
  • 4 tablespoons tomato sauce
  • dash Tabasco sauce
  • 1 teaspoon soya sauce
  • 4 thin slices of cheese

    Roll the chops in a mixture of the flour and salt and pepper. Dip in the egg mixed with the water and toss in a mixture of breadcrumbs and cheese.

    Heat the oil in a frying pan until it is not quite smoking. Brown the chops on each side.

    In a shallow pan mix tomato sauce, soya sauce and a dash of Tabasco sauce. Roll the cutlets in this mixture and spread over the cutlets the slices of cheese.

    Cook in a slow oven until the cheese has melted and the chops are done.

    Serves 4.
     

    Lamb Steaks with Warm White Bean Salad

  • 1-1½ pounds leg of lamb steaks, 1-inch thick
  • kosher salt to taste
  • freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 3 teaspoons finely minced garlic
  • 1 cup red wine
  • White Bean Salad
  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons minced shallots or sweet onion
  • ¾ cup finely minced orange and red bell peppers
  • 2 cans (15 ounces) white beans, such as cannellini or Northern beans, rinsed and drained (about 3 cups)
  • 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar

    For the Iamb: Preheat the oven to broil, or a grill to medium-high heat. You can also use a grill pan. .

    If the lamb has a bone, make 2 shallow cuts in the meat surrounding the bone so that it doesn't curl up during cooking.

    Place the lamb in a shallow dish and season both sides with salt and pepper. Toss with all but ½ teaspoon of the garlic and drizzle with the red wine. Set aside and marinate at least 15 minutes, while you prepare the bean salad, and up to 1 hour, tossing occasionally.

    For white bean salad: Heat 1 tablespoon of the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the reserved garlic and the shallots and heat through until the garlic is fragrant, 30 seconds to 1 minute. Add the peppers and beans and stir to coat, cooking and stirring until the flavors are infused, about 3 minutes.

    Remove from the heat and add the remaining olive oil and the vinegar plus salt and pepper to taste. Set aside.

    To cook lamb: If broiling, place steaks in one layer on a foil-lined sheet and cook 2-4 minutes per side. If using grill or grill pan, lightly grease the grill grate or grill pan then cook for 3-5 minutes per side.

    Tent the meat with foil and let rest 10 minutes.

    Serve immediately, sliced if you like, with the beans.
     

    Provencal Braised Lamb Shanks

  • 2 teaspoons paprika
  • ½ teaspoon crushed rosemary or thyme
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 4 lamb shanks (3 to 3½ pounds total)
  • ¾ cup ail-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 cups chopped onion
  • 2 tablespoons pre-minced oil¬-packed garlic
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 1 cup dry white wine
  • 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1½ cups refrigerated or jarred tomato marinara sauce
  • zest (colored portion of peel) and juice of 1 lemon
  • ⅓ cup pitted, halved oil-cured black olives

    Preheat oven to 325°. Combine paprika, rosemary or thyme, salt and pepper. Coat lamb shanks all over with spice mixture. Dredge lamb lightly in flour (or sprinkle flour all over lamb); pat off any excess.

    Heat oil over medium heat in ovenproof Dutch oven or other ovenproof pot. Add lamb shanks (in batches, if necessary to avoid overcrowding) and brown on all sides, 8 to 10 minutes. Remove to plate.

    Discard all but 1 tablespoon fat from pan. Add onions and cook until golden, about 4 minutes. Add garlic and bay leaf; cook 1 minute. Add wine and simmer, scraping bottom of pan until liquid is reduced by about half. Add broth, sauce and lemon zest (reserve lemon juice); bring to simmer. Return lamb shanks to pot and spoon some sauce over them. Cover and bake in preheated oven until meat is fork tender, about 2 hours.

    Remove and discard bay leaf. Spoon off excess fat from surface of sauce. Stir in lemon juice and olives. Serve shanks with sauce.
     

    Lamb Chops with Tomatoes and Olives

  • 4 lamb loin chops, each about 1½ ¬inches thick
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • kosher salt and pepper
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 4 shallots, cut in half
  • 4 plum tomatoes, cut into quarters
  • ¼ cup pitted kalamata olives
  • ¼ cup flat-leaf parsley leaves
  • 1 baguette, optional

    Heat oven to 400˚. Season the lamb with the paprika, ¾ teaspoon salt and ½ teaspoon pepper. Heat the oil over medium-high heat in an ovenproof skillet. Cook the lamb in the skillet until browned, 2 to 3 minutes per side.

    Add the shallots to the skillet. Transfer the skillet to oven and cook the lamb to the desired doneness, 8 to 10 minutes for medium-rare. Transfer the lamb to individual plates.

    Add the tomatoes, olives and parsley to the hot skillet and toss to combine with the shallots. Serve with the lamb and, if desired, baguette. Serves 4.
     

    Rosemary Lamb Kebobs

  • ¼ cup balsamic vinegar
  • 3 cloves minced garlic
  • 2 teaspoons fresh rosemary
  • ¾ teaspoon each cumin and salt
  • ½ teaspoon each black pepper and ground coriander
  • 1¼ pounds leg of lamb or shoulder, trimmed and cut into 18 cubes
  • 12 medium whole mushrooms
  • 2 bell peppers (any color), cut into 12 pieces
  • 1 large red onion, cut into 12 pieces
  • 1 large zucchini, cut into 12 pieces

    In a small bowl, make sauce by combining vinegar, garlic, rosemary, cumin, salt, black pepper and coriander. Thread 6 (12-inch) metal skewers alternately with lamb, mushrooms, bell pepper, onion and zucchini. Baste with sauce. Broil 4 inches from heat source, 4 minutes per side or to desired doneness, 145˚ to 160˚ for medium-rare to medium. Makes 6 kebobs.
     

    Smothered Lamb Stew

  • 1 pound boneless leg of lamb, trimmed, in 1-inch chunks
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • ¾ pound red potatoes, in 1-inch chunks
  • 2 carrots, in 1-inch chunks
  • 1 tablespoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 14 ounces reduced-sodium beef broth
  • 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
  • 1 bay leaf
  • canola spray

    Coat the inside of a nonstick Dutch oven with canola spray, and set over medium-high heat. Add lamb. Turn frequently until browned, about five minutes.

    Transfer the lamb to a bowl and set aside.

    Add onion and garlic to Dutch oven. Cook, stirring frequently, until the onion softens, about 2 to 3 minutes.

    Add potatoes, carrots, paprika and oregano. Cook about 30 seconds, stirring frequently, until fragrant.

    Add the lamb, beef broth, vinegar and bay leaf. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer, covered, until the lamb and vegetables are tender, about 30 to 35 minutes.

    Discard the bay leaf before serving. Serving size 1¼ cups.
     

    Creole BBQ Leg of Lamb

  • 1 leg of lamb (5-6 pounds) butterflied
  • 2 tablespoons kosher salt
  • 2 tablespoons ground cumin
  • 1 tablespoon ground allspice
  • 1 teaspoon ground tumeric
  • 2 tablespoons fennel seeds
  • 2 tablespoons crushed black pepper-corns
  • 1 cup Spanish onions
  • ½ cup fresh lime juice
  • ½ cup olive oil

    Have your butcher butterfly the leg by removing the bone, spreading the meat flat and trimming the fat and sinew.

    In a small bowl combine all the seasonings and rub the lamb with this dry mixture, then with the onions, lime, and olive oil. Marinate several hours or overnight.

    Preheat BBQ or you can use your oven broiler. In the BBQ, the coals should be red hot. Sear the outside of the leg of lamb on both sides, then lower the heat by spreading the coals, raising the grill, or lowering the heat. Continue to grill, turning the meat regularly. It should take 20-25 minutes to cook to medium rare.

    After the meat is cooked, remove from the grill and allow to rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Using a sharp slicing knife, cut the meat across the grain on the slight bias. Serve with yams and smoked onions.
     

    Stir-Fry Lamb with Chili, Cumin and Garlic

  • 1½ pounds lamb shoulder
  • 1 tablespoon cumin seeds
  • ½ teaspoon crushed red chili flakes, or to taste
  • 1 tablespoon chopped garlic
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • salt and freshly ground black pepper
  • peanut or neutral oil, like grapeseed or corn, to film the bottom of the skillet
  • 1 cup trimmed and roughly chopped scallions, optional
  • chopped fresh cilantro leaves for garnish, optional

    You absolutely need cumin seeds, not ground cumin. It's worth the two or three minutes it takes to toast the seeds before marinating the meat. You can grind them if you like, but it is good with the little bit of crunch the seeds add.

    Cut lamb into ½ inch cubes (easier if meat is firmed in the freezer for 15 to 45 minutes). Toast cumin seeds in dry skillet over medium heat, shaking pan occasionally, until fragrant, a minute or two. Toss together lamb with cumin, chili, garlic, soy sauce, a large pinch of salt and a healthy grinding of pepper. If you like, cover and refrigerate until ready to cook, up to 24 hours.

    When ready to cook, put a tablespoon of oil in large skillet (ideally, it will hold the lamb in one layer, or nearly so) and turn heat to high. When hot, add lamb. Cook, undisturbed, for about a minute, then stir once or twice to loosen lamb from skillet. Cook another minute, then stir again. Add scallions, if using, and cook, stirring occasionally, until scallions glisten and shrink a bit and the meat is about medium.
    If you want a slightly saucier mixture, stir in ¼ cup water and cook another minute. Serve hot over rice, garnished, if you like, with cilantro. Serves 4.
     

    Irish Lamb with Rosemary

    My friend, Michael of Dublin, was invited to a dinner at Springfort Hall, near Mallow, in County Cork, Ireland. His host, Michael Cooper, served this delicious leg of lamb with rosemary so everyone would remember the special evening. The Springfort Hall farm lamb has the unusual variation of being basted with sherry. The strained juices may be served as gravy. 8 servings.

  • 1 (5-pound) leg of lamb, trimmed of excess fat
  • 3 garlic cloves, cut into slivers
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon pepper
  • 4 sprigs fresh rosemary or 2 tablespoons dried
  • 1 cup sweet sherry

    Preheat oven to 325°F. Insert slivers of garlic into small gashes made over the leg of lamb with the point of a very sharp knife. Brush lamb with olive oil and sprinkle salt and pepper over the top. Tie fresh sprigs of rosemary to the leg, or if using dried rosemary, sprinkle allover leg.

    Place lamb into preheated oven for 15 to 20 minutes per pound. Baste halfway through cooking with sweet sherry.
     

    Herbed Leg of Lamb

    Pull out all the stops for your next dinner party with this herb¬ encrusted roast surrounded by colorful spring vegetables. Use your imagination with the vegetables - if asparagus is not available, use green peppers. Try turnips and carrots for good color and flavor. Serve this with a Merlot wine for guaranteed thank-you notes! 8 to 10 servings.

  • 1 (8-pound) leg of lamb, trimmed of excess fat
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

    Herb Crust:

  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
  • 1 teaspoon dried tarragon
  • 1 teaspoon dried marjoram
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 4 teaspoons dried parsley
  • ½ teaspoon fresh ground black pepper

    Vegetables:

  • 16 small red potatoes, par-boiled
  • 16 garlic cloves, peeled
  • 16 small white onions, peeled and par-boiled
  • 16 stalks of spring asparagus, par-boiled
  • 16 pieces of yellow pepper, cut in 1-inch pieces

    Lamb Gravy:

  • 2 tablespoons lamb drippings from pan
  • ½ cup dry red wine
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • ½ cup half-and-half*

    * Lower calorie/fat option – substitute canned evaporated skimmed milk for the half-and-half.

    Gravy:
    Drain off fat from the pan except 2 tablespoons. Add wine and stir, scraping up all the roasted bits. Cook until it is reduced by half. Add beef broth and cook until it is again reduced by half, stirring often. Add half-and-half and cook until the gravy coats the back of a spoon. Adjust seasonings, if necessary.

    Preheat oven to 450°F. Insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the roast; be careful not to touch the bone. Score fat with a sharp knife in diagonal cuts (as for a ham, for instance). Brush roast with olive oil and sprinkle herbs over, pressing them onto the oil to form a crust. Place the roast in a shallow pan and roast at 450°F for 10 minutes.

    Reduce heat to 350°F and roast for 90 minutes. Remove leg of lamb from oven and place the vegetables around roast. Continue to cook for I hour, turning the vegetables occasionally so they will brown evenly. When the meat thermometer registers 160°F (medium-well done), remove roast to a serving platter placing cooked vegetables around it. Hold in a warm place while preparing the gravy.
     


    Apricot-Glazed Lamb

    Apricots lend a sunny note to the glaze on this fruited leg of lamb. 6 servings.

  • I (4-pound) leg of lamb, trimmed of excess fat
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon pepper
  • 2 teaspoons powdered ginger
  • ½ teaspoon nutmeg
  • 1 cup apricot preserves
  • 2 tablespoons mint jelly

    Preheat oven to 325°P. Place the leg of lamb in a shallow roasting pan. With a sharp knife, score fat in diagonal slices. Sprinkle spices over the roast. Combine the remaining ingredients, and pour over half the lamb. Roast for 1 hour and 20 minutes for medium-well doneness. Baste lamb frequently with the remaining apricot-mint sauce.

    Variations:
    Use apple jelly, peach preserves, red currant jelly, apricot ginger chutney or pear marmalade, instead of the apricot preserves.
     

    America's Favorite Lea of Lamb

    If you ask anyone how they like their Sunday lamb, the answer will probably be this tried and true way of preparing it. Lamb roast, roasted potatoes and herbed lamb gravy are all in this perfect oven meal. Serve with petite peas. 8 to 10 servings.

  • 1 (5-pound) leg of lamb, trimmed of excess fat
  • 3 cloves of garlic, peeled and slivered
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon fresh snipped rosemary or 1 teaspoon dried rosemary, crumbled
  • 11/2 teaspoons salt or to taste
  • 11/2 teaspoons pepper
  • 4 potatoes, washed, peeled and cut into quarters
  • 1/2 cup beef broth, reserved

    Preheat oven to 325°F. With the tip of a sharp knife, cut small slits all over the leg of lamb. Insert garlic slivers into the slits. Brush leg with olive oil. Sprinkle with rosemary, salt and pepper.

    Put lamb in a shallow roasting pan placing potatoes around it. Roast at 325° for 11/2 to 2 hours, or until internal temperature is 160 to 180 degrees F. Turn potatoes occasionally so they will brown evenly.

    Remove roast and potatoes from pan to a serving platter. Cover with foil to keep warm.

    Add beef broth to remaining juices in the roasting pan, stirring and scraping up the bits of roasted meat. Bring to a boil, and reduce heat to a simmer. Stir often until liquid is slightly thickened.
     

    Wide Awake Lamb

    I don't suppose it makes any difference if you Use regular or decaffeinated coffee in this recipe. At least, decaf worked for me. 6 servings.

  • 1 (5-pound) leg of lamb, trimmed of excess fat
  • 2 garlic cloves, peeled
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano or rosemary
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon pepper
  • 1 cup strong black coffee

    Preheat oven to 350°F. Rub lamb with garlic cloves, then sprinkle on the herbs and spices. Roast lamb in a shallow roasting pan, allowing 20 minutes per pound. Baste with coffee at 15 minute intervals.

    Variation:
    In England (I swear this is true!), they use coffee with milk and sugar in it to produce a sugary-sweet, almost caramelized glaze. It's quite good for those with a sweet tooth.
     

    Braised Lamb and Lentils

  • 6 lamb shanks
  • 1 teaspoon each salt and black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 large onion, thinly sliced
  • 2¼ cups beef stock
  • 2 cups red wine
  • ¼ cup tomato paste
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons minced fresh rosemary leaves
  • 2 tablespoons packed brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
  • 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
  • 1½ cups du Puy or regular green lentils, rinsed and drained
  • rosemary sprigs for garnish

    Preheat oven to 350°F. Pat lamb shanks dry with paper towels, then sprinkle both sides with half of the salt and pepper.

    Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook lamb shanks in batches for 3 to 5 minutes, turning often, until browned on all sides. Remove shanks to a roasting pan and arrange in a single layer.

    Reduce heat to medium and add onion to oil remaining in skillet. Cook, stirring often, for 4 to 6 minutes, until onion is golden brown. Stir in 2 cups stock, the wine, tomato paste, garlic, rosemary, sugar, Worcestershire sauce, vinegar and remaining salt and pepper. Bring to a boil over high heat, stirring to scrape any brown bits from bottom of skillet.

    Pour contents of skillet over lamb shanks. Cover roasting pan tightly with foil. Transfer roasting pan to oven and cook for 30 minutes.

    Turn lamb shanks over. Stir lentils into cooking juices in roasting pan.

    Cover roasting pan with foil, and return to oven for 1 hour, until lamb shanks and lentils are very tender. (Recipe can be refrigerated for up to 24 hours and reheated, covered, in a 350°F oven for 45 to 55 minutes, stirring occasionally.)

    If the lentil mixture seems too thick, add a little of the remaining beef stock, heating it before adding to roasting pan. Taste and add more salt and pepper if necessary.

    Spoon lamb shanks, lentils and cooking juices into a shallow serving dish, garnish with fresh rosemary and serve.

    Serves 6.
     

    Mint Lamb Chops

    6 loin lamb chops, cut thick
    1 tablespoon lemon juice
    2 tablespoons oil
    2 tablespoons mint jelly

    Secure the tails with toothpicks and rub lemon juice into each side and rub in the oil. Let stand for 1 hour. Pop the chops under a preheated broiler for about 1 minute to sear each side.

    Brush the top of the chops with some mint jelly and cook for 3 minutes. Turn and brush the other side with the remaining mint jelly. Cook until done, brushing any melted mint jelly over the chops during the cooking time.

    These chops are nice served with minted potatoes and glazed carrots.

    Serves 6.
     


    Lamb Chops Parmesan

  • 6 loin lamb chops
  • 1 clove garlic, crushed
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 3 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
  • ¼ cup tomato sauce
  • 1 tablespoon chopped parsley
  • ½ teaspoon dried oregano
  • freshly ground black pepper

    Secure the tails of the chops with a toothpick. Preheat the broiler.

    Sauté garlic in oil in a frying pan until just brown. Stir in the cheese, tomato sauce, parsley, oregano and pepper.

    Place a thin layer of the cheese mixture on top of each chop. Broil for 5 minutes, turn and spread the remaining mixture on the other side of the chop. Broil a further 5 minutes or until done to taste. Serve immediately.

    Serves 6.
     

    Lamb Pasties or Pie

  • 1 pound minced lamb
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 4 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 diced medium onion
  • 2 diced carrots
  • 2 medium diced potatoes
  • 1 cup dice celery
  • 2 tablespoons flour
  • 1 cup beef stock
  • ½ cup chopped parsley
  • ½ teaspoon dried rosemary (optional)
  • salt and freshly ground black pepper

    Heat oil in a large saucepan.

    Add lamb and cook for 5 minutes.

    Add the tomato paste then the vegetables and rosemary. Cook for a further five minutes, stirring frequently.

    Stir in the flour and then add the beef stock. Cook over a low steady heat until vegetables are tender.

    Add parsley and salt and pepper to taste. At this point you can serve the stew or allow to cool if you want to make pasties or pie. .

    Cheesy pastry ingredients

  • 1½ cups flour
  • ¼ pound cold cubed butter
  • 1 cup grated tasty cheese
  • ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon dry mustard
  • 2 teaspoons lemon juice
  • 3 tablespoons chilled water
  • 1 egg yolk
  • 1 beaten egg for glazing

    Preheat oven 350°-375°.

    Place dry ingredients in food processor. Pulse to blend in cheese and butter, until mixture resembles breadcrumbs.

    Add egg yolk and pulse briefly.

    Combine water and lemon juice.

    Gradually add liquid until mixture forms a ball. You may not need all the liquid.

    Cover pastry and refrigerate for 30 minutes.

    Roll pastry out on a floured surface.

    To make pasties cut out circles using a small saucer as a guide.

    Spoon meat mixture on one side of the pastry circle, brush edges with milk, fold in half and pinch edges together. Glaze with beaten egg.

    Place pasties on a baking sheet and bake for about 30 minutes.

    Option

    The meat mixture can be spooned into a pie dish then topped with the cheesy pastry or a commercial flaky one.
     

    Pan-Sautéed Lamb Chops Topped with Whipped Feta

  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 4 medium-size cloves garlic, smashed and peeled
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt, plus extra for seasoning the chops
  • ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • ½ cup olive oil, plus extra for sautéing the chops
  • 8 rib lamb chops, cut about ½-inch thick and about 3 ounces each
  • 1 cup (18-20) grape tomatoes
  • Whipped Feta, for garnish

    (recipe follows)
    Fresh dill sprigs, for garnish

    Combine the lemon juice, garlic, salt, pepper and ¼ cup olive oil in a shallow, non-reactive pan. Add the lamb chops, turning to coat well. Marinate at room temperature, turning the chops occasionally, for 45 minutes. (You can marinate the lamb, if covered and refrigerated, for as long as 3 hours. Bring to room temperature 30 minutes before cooking).

    Add enough olive oil to lightly coat the bottom of a large, heavy skillet, and place it over medium-high heat. When hot, remove the chops from the marinade, salt them lightly on both sides, and then sauté until browned allover and pink in the center, for 2½-3 minutes per side. Remove the chops to a platter and cover loosely with foil to keep warm.

    Pour all but 2 tablespoons dripping from the skillet and return to medium-high heat. When hot, add the grape tomatoes and cook, stirring just until seared and warmed through, for about 2 minutes. Serve 2 chops per person, each topped with a generous dollop of Whipped Feta. Garnish each serving with some tomatoes and, if desired, a dill sprig. Serves 4.

    Whipped Feta

    Whipped Feta can be prepared 3 hours ahead; cover and refrigerate. Bring to room temperature 30 minutes before using.

    ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
    ¼ cup olive oil
    1 teaspoon lemon juice
    1½ tablespoons chopped dill

    In a small bowl and using a handheld mixer (or in a mini-food processor), blend the feta cheese, oil and lemon juice until smooth, then mix in the chopped dill.

    Makes about ½ cup.
     

    Lamb Shanks with Root Vegetables

    Date molasses, pomegranate juice and orange juice in braising liquid give this dish a Middle Eastern-fusion flavor.

    Called silan in Israel, date molasses is a thick, sweet syrup made from pressed dates.

    The recipe can be doubled; in that case, use about ⅓ less liquid. It's good to make this a day in advance; cover and refrigerate to let the flavors develop.

  • 3 tablespoons canola oil
  • 6 lamb shanks, trimmed of excess fat (5-6½ pounds total)
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more for seasoning the meat
  • 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, plus more for seasoning the meat
  • 2-3 large parsnips, trimmed, peeled and cut into 1-inch pieces (3½ to 4 cups)
  • 2 large red onions, coarsely chopped
  • 2 medium celery roots, peeled and coarsely chopped
  • 1½ cups baby-cut carrots, cut into ¾ -inch pieces
  • 1 750 ml. bottle white wine, such as sauvignon blanc
  • ¾ cup pomegranate juice
  • ¾ cup juice from 3 medium oranges
  • 3 tablespoon date molasses (may substitute honey)
  • 3 whole star anise
  • 2-3 sticks cinnamon (may substitute 1-2 teaspoons ground cinnamon)
  • 2-3 cups water, or as needed

    Heat the oil in a large Dutch oven or wide pot over medium-high heat.

    Meanwhile, season the trimmed lamb shanks all over with salt and pepper to taste. Working in 2 batches, add them to the pot and sear on all sides, turning as needed; this will take about 5 minutes for each batch. Transfer to a platter.

    Add the parsnips, onions, celery root and carrots to the pot; cook for about 3 minutes, stirring to coat them in the oil flavored by the meat. Return all the lamb shanks to the pot, then add the wine, juices, date molasses, star anise, cinnamon sticks, 1 teaspoon each of kosher salt and black pepper and the water (use more water as needed to make sure the meat is covered). Let the mixture come to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Cover the pot tightly with a sheet of aluminum foil, then place the pot lid on top to seal the pot well. Cook for 3-3½ hours or until the lamb is almost falling off the bone.

    When the meat is done, carefully transfer it and the vegetables to a platter. If serving right away, cover with foil to keep warm. Increase the heat to high and cook the liquid for about 30 minutes, until it has reduced by two-thirds. Spoon the reduced sauce over the meat and vegetables. Serve warm. Serves 6.
     

    Lamb with GreenGarlic

    If you've been to the farmer's market lately you have seen garlic, fragrant shoots with tiny young bulbs. If you cannot find green garlic at your market, use peeled cloves from 1 small head of garlic instead.

  • 5 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3-4 pounds lamb shoulder trimmed of excess fat and cut into 1½-inch pieces
  • Salt and pepper
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
  • 1½ cups water or meat broth
  • ½ pound green garlic or 1 head garlic, cloves separated and peeled
  • 2 pounds green onions, cut in 2-inch lengths, about 5-6 bunches
  • 3 tablespoons chopped fresh mint, dill or flat leaf parsley

    Film a large heavy skillet with about 3 tablespoons olive oil over high heat. Sprinkle the lamb with salt and pepper. Working in batches, add the lamb to the oil and brown on all sides.

    Transfer the lamb to a heavy stew pot, add tomato paste, vinegar, 1 cup of the water or broth, salt and pepper to taste. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer and cover the pan. Cook slowly over low heat for 50 to 60 minutes.

    Do not peel the green garlic but snip off the root end and slice into two-inch lengths, using all of the green. Trim the roots off the green onions and also cut them into two-inch lengths. Blanche garlic and green onions in boiling salted water for two minutes, then drain.

    Sauté the garlic and green onions in remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil over moderate heat for about 5 minutes, just to get a bit of color on them. Season with salt and pepper and then set them aside.

    After the lamb has cooked about 1 hour, add the garlic and green onions to the pot. Cover and continue to cook until lamb is tender, another 20 to 30 minutes. Drain off excess fat, then add the remaining ½ cup water or broth, scraping up any browned bits. Adjust seasoning. Sprinkle with chopped mint, dill or parsley and serve at once with rice or potatoes. Serves 6-8.
     

    Stuffed Pepper Soup

  • 2 pounds ground lamb
  • 1 28-ounce can tomato sauce
  • 1 28-ounce can diced tomatoes, undrained
  • 2 cups cooked long grain white rice
  • 2 cups chopped green peppers
  • 2 beef bouillon cubes
  • ¼ cup brown sugar, packed
  • 2 teaspoons salt
  • 1 teaspoon pepper

    In a large saucepan brown lamb; drain off grease. Add tomato sauce, tomatoes, green peppers, bouillon cubes, brown sugar, salt and pepper. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat, cover and simmer for 30 to 40 minutes or until peppers are tender. Add cooked rice and heat through.
     

    Stuffed Peppers

  • 4 medium green peppers, top removed and seeded
  • ½ cup chopped onion
  • 1 pound lean ground lamb
  • 1 8-ounce can tomato sauce
  • 1 cup fresh corn or canned corn (optional)
  • 2-3 teaspoons chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ¾ cup grated sharp cheddar cheese

    Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Cook peppers in boiling water 5 to 8 minutes, drain well. Turn cut side down to drain. Sauté chopped onion and ground lamb until brown, drain. Add tomato sauce, corn, chili powder and salt. Fill drained peppers. with meat mixture and place in deep baking dish; add ½ inch water to bottom of baking dish. bake for 20 minutes; sprinkle tops of peppers with grated cheese. Continue baking another 15 minutes or until cheese is melted.

    Serves 4.
     

    Pomegranate Braised Lamb

  • 4 pounds boneless lamb shoulder roast (netted or tied to hold together)
  • 1 tablespoon kosher salt
  • 1 tablespoon black peppercorns
  • 1 tablespoon allspice berries
  • 1 tablespoon cumin seeds
  • 1 tablespoon dried mint
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • ½ teaspoon grated nutmeg
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 large yellow onion, diced
  • 4 cloves garlic, chopped
  • 4-6 cups kosher vegetable broth (enough stock to cover the roast halfway in the pan)
  • ½ cup pomegranate molasses
  • Salt to taste

    Heat oven to 325 degrees. Pat the roast dry with paper towel, then season all over with 1 tablespoon salt.

    Grind the peppercorns, allspice berries, cumin seeds, dried mint, cinnamon and nutmeg in a coffee grinder or with a mortar and pestle. Spread the spice mixture onto a baking sheet and roll the roast in the spices until it is covered.

    Heat a large braising pan over medium heat, then add the olive oil and heat until hot. Add the roast and sear it on all sides until browned. Remove the roast to a plate and set aside.

    Add the onions and garlic to the pan and sauté until the onion is translucent. Add the lamb back to the pan, along with any juices that have accumulated. Add the broth and pomegranate molasses, so that the liquid comes halfway up the roast. Place a piece of parchment paper, over the roast and cover the pan with the lid or a tightly fitted piece of foil.

    Braise in the oven for 2 hours. Halfway through cooking, turn the roast over so that the uncovered portion is submerged in the braising liquid. The finished roast will be well-done but fork tender. Remove the roast to a plate and allow to rest, covered, for 10 to 15 minutes.

    Make the sauce: skim and discard the fat from the top of the braising liquid. Strain the liquid into a medium sauce-pan and bring it to a boil over high heat. Reduce by one-fourth or until desired consistency is achieved. Season with salt to taste. Slice the roast and serve with the sauce spooned over it.

    Serves 6-8.
     

    Ninth-Night Lamb

  • ⅓ tightly packed cup Italian parsley leaves, plus 1 tightly packed table-spoon leaves, coarsely chopped
  • 6 large cloves garlic
  • 4 large canned plum tomatoes, drained
  • 3 generous tablespoons freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese
  • Salt to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 3½ pounds bone-in lamb blade (shoulder roast), trimmed of all fat, boned and cut into 1-inch chunks or
  • 1½ pounds boned and defatted leg of lamb meat cut into 1-inch chunks
  • additional salt and freshly ground black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
  • 8-10 (1 pound) small Yellow Finn or red skin potatoes, peeled and sliced into
  • 1/16th to 1/8th inch thick rounds
  • ⅓ cup water

    Preheat oven to 300 degrees.

    Mince together the ⅓ cup parsley, garlic and drained tomatoes. Blend with the cheese. Toss ⅓ of the mixture with the lamb, adding salt and pepper.

    Lightly oil. the bottom and sides of a deep 4½ to 5-quart casserole or pot. (I use a 5-quart enameled cast-iron pot or a deep 5-quart terra-cotta casserole.) Spread 1 tablespoon of the minced blend over the bottom of the pot. Cover with half of the potatoes arranged in an overlapping pattern. Sprinkle potatoes with salt and pepper, 2 more tablespoons of the minced blend and about 1 teaspoon olive oil. Top with all the meat and 1 more teaspoon oil. Overlap the rest of the potatoes on the meat, sprinkle with remaining herb blend and 1 tablespoon or so of olive oil. Finish with salt and pepper. Pour the water down the side of the casserole.

    Bake, uncovered, for 45 minutes. Tip casserole and carefully spoon out pan juices to baste the top of the potatoes. Turn heat up to 325 degrees and continue baking 1½ hours more, basting 2 or 3 times, or until lamb is tender when pierced.

    Serve the lamb hot, or hold up to an hour, reheating at 350 degrees. Sprinkle the casserole with the 1 tablespoon of remaining parsley just before taking the lamb to the table.

    Serves 4.


    Stir-Fried Sweet and Sour Lamb
    Recipe from Pat Flora

  • cooked rice
  • ⅓ cup plus 1½~ tablespoons cornstarch
  • 1 can (15¼ ounces) pineapple chunks, drained (reserve juice)
  • ½ cup pineapple juice
  • 3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 6 tablespoons water
  • ¼ teaspoon ground ginger
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 3 tablespoons sugar or honey
  • 1 egg
  • 1½-2 pounds lean lamb, cut into ¾-inch cubes
  • 3 tablespoons cooking oil
  • 1 cup diagonally sliced carrots, ¼- inch thick
  • 1 large clove garlic, minced
  • ½ cup diagonally sliced green onions and tops
  • 1 tomato, cut into 1-inch wedges
  • 1 cup sliced mushrooms
  • 1 package (6 ounces) frozen Chinese pea pods with water chestnuts, thawed
  • ¼ cup sliced almonds

    Begin cooking rice according to package directions and set aside when done.

    Then, in small bowl, combine 1½ tablespoons cornstarch with pineapple juice, vinegar, 4 tablespoons water, ginger, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce and sugar or honey. Set aside.

    Put remaining ⅓ cup cornstarch in shallow bowl. Beat egg in shallow bowl. Dip lamb cubes in egg, then roll in cornstarch and set on plate. Heat 2 tablespoons cooking oil, over medium-high heat, in wok, non-stick or heavy skillet. Add half of the lamb. Stir-fry until crisp and brown on all sides, or about 5 minutes. Remove lamb and drain on paper toweling. Add remaining half of lamb and repeat browning process. Remove lamb. Add remaining 1 tablespoon oil, if necessary. Add carrots and garlic. Stir-fry for about 2 minutes. Add remaining 2 tablespoons water. Cover and cook for a few minutes, or until carrots are just tendercrisp. Add lamb, pineapple chunks, green onions, tomatoes, mushrooms, Chinese pea pods and pineapple juice mixture. Cook just until mixture is thickened and heated completely through. Serve over rice and sprinkle with almonds over top of each serving.
     

    Rack of Lamb with Currant Sauce
    Recipe from Pat Flora
     

  • 6-6½ pound rack of lamb, split, remove chine bone, clean
  • ½ cup currant jelly
  • ½ cup ketchup
  • ½ cup lemon juice
  • 4 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon oregano
  • salt to taste
  • pepper to taste

    Clean and trim lamb.

    Mix currant jelly, ketchup, lemon juice, olive oil, oregano, salt and pepper and simmer for ½ hour.

    Roast lamb in 350°F oven to desired doneness, basting with currant sauce.

    Prior to serving, baste again.

    Serves 6.
     

    Shepherd's Pie
    Recipe from Pat Flora

  • ¼ cup chopped onion
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 1 pound or 2½-3 cups cooked leg of lamb, cut into ¼- to ½-inch cubes
  • ½ cup chopped fresh mushrooms gravy (made from lamb drippings and broth)
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup cooked green peas
  • ¾ cup cooked chopped carrots
  • 1½-2 cups mashed potatoes
  • ½ cup grated cheddar cheese

    Saute onion in butter only enough to bring out flavor.

    Add lamb, mushrooms, gravy, salt, pepper, peas and carrots to onions and simmer 10 minutes. Place in baking dish or individual baking dishes.

    Mix together mashed potatoes and cheese. Place on top of lamb mixture. Bake at 375°F for 15 to 20 minutes or until lightly brown on top.

    Serves 4.
     

    Stir-Fried Sweet and Sour Lamb

    cooked rice

  • ? cup plus 11/2~ tablespoons corn starch
  • 1 can (151/4 ounces) pineapple chunks, drained (reserve juice)
  • 1/2 cup pineapple juice
  • 3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 6 tablespoons water
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 3 tablespoons sugar or honey
  • 1 egg
  • 11/2-2 pounds lean lamb, cut into 3/4-inch cubes
  • 3 tablespoons cooking oil
  • 1 cup diagonally sliced carrots, 1/4- inch thick
  • 1 large clove garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup diagonally sliced green onions and tops
  • 1 tomato, cut into 1-inch wedges
  • 1 cup sliced mushrooms
  • 1 package (6 ounces) frozen Chinese pea pods with water chestnuts, thawed
  • 1/4 cup sliced almonds

    Begin cooking rice according to package directions and set aside when done.

    Then, in small bowl, combine 11/2 tablespoons cornstarch with pineapple juice, vinegar, 4 tablespoons water, ginger, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce and sugar or honey. Set aside.

    Put remaining ? cup cornstarch in shallow bowl. Beat egg in shallow bowl. Dip lamb cubes in egg, then roll in cornstarch and set on plate. Heat 2 tablespoons cooking oil, over medium-high heat, in wok, non-stick or heavy skillet. Add half of the lamb. Stir-fry until crisp and brown on all sides, or about 5 minutes. Remove lamb and drain on paper toweling. Add remaining half of lamb and repeat browning process. Remove lamb. Add remaining 1 tablespoon oil, if necessary. Add carrots and garlic. Stir-fry for about 2 minutes.

    Add remaining 2 tablespoons water. Cover and cook for a few minutes, or until carrots are just tendercrisp. Add lamb, pineapple chunks, green onions, tomatoes, mushrooms, Chinese pea pods and pineapple juice mixture. Cook just until mixture is thickened and heated completely through. Serve over rice and sprinkle with almonds over top of each serving.
     

    Rack of Lamb with Currant Sauce

  • 6-61/2 pound rack of lamb, split, remove chine bone, clean
  • 1/2 cup currant jelly
  • 1/2 cup ketchup
  • 1/2 cup lemon juice
  • 4 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon oregano
  • salt to taste
  • pepper to taste

    Clean and trim lamb.
    Mix currant jelly, ketchup, lemon juice, olive oil, oregano, salt and pepper and simmer for 1/2 hour.
    Roast lamb in 350°F oven to desired doneness, basting with currant sauce.
    Prior to serving, baste again.
    Serves 6.
     


    Shepherd's Pie

  • 1/4 cup chopped onion
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 1 pound or 21/2-3 cups cooked leg of lamb, cut into 1/4- to 1/2-inch cubes
  • 1/2 cup chopped fresh mushrooms gravy (made from lamb drippings and broth)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup cooked green peas
  • 3/4 cup cooked chopped carrots
  • 11/2-2 cups mashed potatoes
  • 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese

    Saute onion in butter only enough to bring out flavor.
    Add lamb, mushrooms, gravy, salt, pepper, peas and carrots to onions and simmer 10 minutes. Place in baking dish or individual baking dishes.
    Mix together mashed potatoes and cheese. Place on top of lamb mixture. Bake at 375°F for 15 to 20 minutes or until lightly brown on top.
    Serves 4.
     


    Easy Shepherd's Pie
     

  • 1 1/2 lbs Gourmet Ground Lamb
  • 1 onion chopped
  • 1-2 cups vegetables - chopped carrots, corn, peas
  • 1 1/2 - 2 lbs potatoes (3 big ones)
  • 8 tablespoons butter (1 stick)
  • 1/2 cup beef broth
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • Salt, pepper, other seasonings of choice
  • 1. Peel and quarter potatoes, boil in salted water until tender (about 20 minutes).
    2. While the potatoes are cooking, melt 4 Tablespoons butter (1/2 a stick) in large frying pan.
    3. Sauté onions in butter until tender over medium heat (10 min.). If you are adding vegetables, add them according to cooking time. Put any carrots in with the onions. Add corn or peas either at the end of the cooking of the onions, or after the meat has initially cooked.
    4. Add ground beef and sauté until no longer pink. Add salt and pepper. Add Worcestershire sauce. Add half a cup of beef broth and cook, uncovered, over low heat for 10 minutes, adding more beef broth as necessary to keep moist.
    5. Mash potatoes in bowl with remainder of butter, season to taste.
    6. Place beef and onions in baking dish. Distribute mashed potatoes on top. Rough up with a fork so that there are peaks that will brown nicely. You can use the fork to make some designs in the potatoes as well.
    7. Cook in 400 degree oven until bubbling and brown (about 30 minutes). Broil for last few minutes if necessary to brown.

    Serves four.
     


    Shepherd's Pie
    A classic updated with time-saving ingredients

     

  • 1 lb. ground beef or lamb
  • 1/2 tsp. salt
  • 1/4 tsp. black pepper
  • 1 medium onion, minced (1 cup)
  • 1 (10 oz.) pkg. frozen mixed vegetables, thawed, drained
  • 1 (12 oz.) jar savory brown gravy
  • 3-4 cups Byerly's Deli Mashed Potatoes
  • Paprika

    In large skillet, brown ground meat until well browned; sprinkle with salt and pepper. Drain. Spoon meat into 2-qt. casserole; sprinkle with onion and vegetables. Spread gravy over vegetables; top with mashed potatoes. Sprinkle with paprika. Bake in a preheated 350° oven until heated through (35-40 min.).

    Serves four.

    Tip: Can be baked in 4 individual ramekins.
    Variation: After baking, sprinkle top of potatoes with shredded Parmesan cheese. Broil 4" under broiler until golden brown (4-6 min.).
     


    Lamb Brochettes with Tomato Sauce

  • 1 pound minced or coarsely ground shoulder lamb
  • 1 medium sized onion, finely chopped
  • 1 clove garlic, crushed
  • 1 teaspoon oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt, pepper, cayenne pepper
  • 2 tablespoons cummin
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1 teaspoon dried mint
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons flour

    Tomato Sauce
     

  • 1 ounce butter
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 3 ounces mushrooms, sliced
  • 1 clove garlic, crushed
  • 1 ounce flour
  • 1 14 ounce can of chopped tomatoes
  • 5 fluid ounces dry white wine
  • 10 fluid ounces lamb or beef stock
  • 1 bay leaf salt and pepper

    To make sauce:

    Heat butter, fry onion, mushrooms and garlic lightly.

    Stir in flour and season.

    Gradually add tomatoes, wine, stock and bay leaf. Bring to boil and gently simmer for 20 minutes.

    Strain sauce and reheat before serving.

    To make brochettes:

    Mix all ingredients together.

    Knead mixture together and leave to rest for 1 hour in the fridge.

    Divide mixture into fourths. Mold each quarter around a kebab skewer, shaping into sausage 4 to 5 inches long. Cook under preheated grill for approximately 7 minutes on each side.

    Serve with tomato sauce over rice or buttered pasta.
     


    Rack of Lamb with Herbed Crust
     

  • 1 half rack of lamb (8 bones) trimmed of fat, bones Frenched kosher salt and freshly ground pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 cup fresh herbed bread crumbs
  • 1/4 cup fresh chopped parsley
  • 1 large clove minced garlic, or more to taste
  • 1/4-1/3 cup Dijon mustard
  • Pan Sauce, Optional

  • 1 1/2 cups fat-free, low-sodium or sodium-free chicken broth or stock
  • 1 1/2 cups fat-free, low-sodium or sodium-free beef broth or stock
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 1/4 cup diced celery
  • 1/4 cup diced onions
  • 1/4 cup diced carrots
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 2 cups red wine, divided
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch

    Pat the lamb dry with a paper towel. Season all over with kosher salt and pepper. In a large skillet heat the olive oil over medium-high heat so it just covers the bottom of the skillet. Sear the rack on all sides until a brown crust forms. Remove from the skillet and place in a dish to cool.

    Preheat the oven to 425 degrees. Have ready a sided baking sheet with a rack set on top.

    In a small bowl, mix together the bread crumbs, parsley and garlic. When the lamb has cooled, rub all the meat sides with a coating of Dijon mustard. Use more as needed so the bread crumb mixture sticks well to it. Press the bread crumbs into the Dijon all over the top and meat sides. Press firmly so the bread crumb mixture adheres.

    Place the lamb on the rack on the baking sheet and place in the oven. Roast until the internal temperature reaches 120 degrees on an instant-read thermometer; about 12 minutes per pound depending on the thickness of the meat.

    Remove from the oven and let stand 10 minutes before cutting in individual portions.

    Cook's note: If desired, make a pan sauce in advance. In a medium saucepan, combine chicken and beef broth or stock. Reduce by two-thirds; set aside.

    In a large skillet, melt the butter. Add celery, onions and carrots. Sauté about 5 minutes. Add tomato paste and caramelize the vegetables. Add 1 cup red wine and cook until it evaporates. Add the other cup of red wine and cook until it's almost evaporated.

    Whisk the cornstarch into the reduced stock and add to the skillet. Stir until the mixture is slightly thickened. Strain it, discard solids and serve the sauce on the side.

    414 calories (56% from fat), 26 grams fat (8 grams sat. fat), 8 grams carbohydrates, 37 grams protein, 932 mg sodium, 110 mg cholesterol, 86 mg calcium, 1 gram fiber.
     


    Sweet and Sour Lamb

  • 1 pound lamb neck fillet or leg steaks, cut into strips
  • 4 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 4 tablespoons dry sherry
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/2 small yellow bell pepper
  • 1/2 small chilli red pepper
  • 1 medium carrot
  • 2 tablespoons corn flour, dissolved in a little water
  • 2 pineapple ring for garnish
  • 2 small onions, finely chopped, for garnish
  • 1 teaspoon chopped parsley, for garnish

    Sauce

  • 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar or red wine
  • 4 tablespoons tomato ketchup
  • 4 tablespoons honey
  • 8 tablespoons pineapple

  • Marinate lamb strips in the soy sauce and sherry for 1 hour. Cut the peppers and carrots into matchsticks.
  • Pre-heat heavy metal based frying pan, add olive oil. Stir in carrots and peppers. Drain lamb strips and add to pepper mixture, stirring regularly.
  • Cook on high heat for 10 minutes.
  • Reduce heat, add other remaining ingredients (including excess marinade) and cook for 10 minutes; stirring 2 or 3 times.
  • Cook until lamb strips are tender. Serve with rice and garnish with pineapple, parsley and onion.
     

    Lamb Risotto

  • 1 pound lean ground or minced lamb
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 6 ounces long grain rice
  • 4 ounces button mushrooms, sliced
  • 1/2 small red, green, yellow pepper
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons dried mixed herbs
  • salt and pepper
  • 1 teaspoon tomato puree
  • 3/4 pint beef stock
  • 6 ounces frozen or canned peas, drained
  • Any leftover vegetables or frozen mixed vegetables, optional

    Preparation:

  • Heat the oil in a large frying pan and add the minced lamb and chopped onion. Fry gently until the meat browns. Drain off any excess oil
  • Add the rice, button mushrooms, red, green and yellow peppers, and herbs. Mix well and season with salt and pepper. Add the tomato puree and stir well.
  • Add the stock and bring to a boil, stirring. Cover and simmer for 10 minutes.
  • If peas or mixed vegetables are being used then add these and simmer for a further 10 minutes or until all the liquid has been adsorbed.

    Microwave Method

  • Place 1 ounce butter, onion, red pepper, tomato puree, mushrooms and herbs in a large bowl.
  • Cover and microwave on HIGH for 7 to 8 minutes, stirring halfway through cooking.
  • Stir in the rice, stock (1 1/4 pints), oil, minced lamb, vegetables, salt and pepper to taste. Cover and microwave on HIGH for 14 minutes
  • Stir twice during cooking. Set aside covered for 5 minutes and serve immediately thereafter.
     


    Barbequed Lamb Chops

  • 8 Lamb Loin Chops - Cut 1" thick
  • 1/4 cup Cooking Oil
  • 2 teaspoons Honey
  • 2 teaspoons Soy Sauce
  • 2 teaspoons Cider Vinegar (or dry White Wine)
  • 2 teaspoons Onions, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon Salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon Ground Pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon Ground Ginger
  • 1/4 teaspoon Dry Mustard
  • Preparation:

  • In small bowl, mix all ingredients, except lamb chops. Brush chops generously with sauce.
  • Let stand 1 hour.
  • Grill chops 6" to 7" from hot coals for 12 to 15 minutes per side (or until desired doneness), brushing frequently with sauce.
  • Serve chops with remaining sauce.
  • Makes 4 servings


    Western Lamb Riblets

  • 5 pounds Lamb Riblets
  • 3/4 cup Chili Sauce
  • 1/2 cup Honey
  • 1/2 cup Beer
  • 1/4 cup Worcestershire Sauce
  • 1/4 cup Finely Chopped Onions
  • 1 clove Garlic, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes
  • Preparation:

  • Trim excess fat from riblets .
  • In sauce pan, combine all ingredients. Heat mixture to boiling. Reduce heat. Simmer, uncovered, 10 minutes. Remove from heat and cool.
  • Place riblets in plastic bag. Set bag in large bowl. Place marinade over riblets in bag. Close bag securely, and refrigerate 2 hours.
  • Drain riblets. Reserve marinade. Place riblets over a drip pan. Cover grill and cook 45 minutes, turning riblets and brushing with marinade twice. Bring remaining marinade to boil, and serve with riblets.
     

  • Spicy Lamb Burgers

  • 1/4 Chopped Onions
  • 1 teaspoon Curry Powder
  • 1 tablespoon Butter or Margarine, melted
  • 1/4 cup Chopped Almonds
  • 1/4 cup Pineapple, drained
  • 2 Eggs
  • 1/8 teaspoon Pepper
  • 6 Pita Breads
  • 1 1/2 pounds Ground Lamb
  • 1 cup Breadcrumbs
  • Preparation:

  • In skillet, sauté onions and curry powder in butter until onion is tender; stir in almonds and pineapple.
  • In bowl, combine onion mixture thoroughly with lamb, breadcrumbs, egg and pepper.
  • Shape meat mixture into 6 patties.
  • Grill patties on uncovered grill over medium hot briquettes about 5 minutes on each side.
  • Grill pita breads on edge of grill.
  • Serve patties on pita bread.

    Makes 6 servings
     

  • Lamb Shish Kebab

  • 1/4 cup dry, toasted bread crumbs
  • 1 1/2 pounds Fresh Lamb cut into 2" cubes
  • 1/2 cup Fresh Lemon Juice
  • 3 tablespoons Virgin Olive Oil
  • 1/3 cup Minced Onions
  • 4 cloves Garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon Pepper
  • 1 teaspoon Coarse Salt
  • 1 Red Onion cut into 8 wedges
  • 1 White Onion cut into 8 wedges
  • 1 Lemon cut into 8 wedges
  •  

    Marinade:
     

  • In a small bowl, combine lemon juice, oil, minced onions, garlic, pepper and salt.
  • Place lamb, red and white onions in a glass dish - pour marinade over lamb and onions, cover and refrigerate 6 to 24 hours.
  • Drain lamb and onions and discard marinade.
  • Thread red onions, lamb and white onions onto skewers ending with lemon wedge.
  • Grill for 5 to 6 minutes per side for medium rare or until desired degree of doneness.
  • Makes 6 servings



    Frenched Rack of Lamb


    Total Time: 30 minutes 
    Lamb Cuts: Rack of Lamb 
    Category: Entrees
    Servings: 1 or 2 (4 rib "half rack")
    Preparation Time: 5 min. after thawing
    Cook Time: 30 - 40 minutes

    Ingredients:
     
  • 1/4 cup dry, toasted bread crumbs
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons ,minced parsley
  • Ground black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter
  • 1 tablespoons salt

    Directions:
     
  • Split an 8 rib rack in halves or use a half rack, and trim residual fat thoroughly
  • Preheat oven at 500° F.
  • Roast, meat side down for about 20 minutes
  • Reduce heat to 400° F
  • Remove rack from oven, holding it by the bones (careful: hot!) and press meat side in mixture of bread crumbs, parsley, butter, garlic, salt and pepper.
  • Turn rack meat side up in the oven for about 10 minutes at 400° F or to desired doneness (see below).
  • Let rest 5-10 minutes before carving into chops. The meat temperature will go up another 5-10 degrees.

    Note:
     
  • Meat temperature 140° F for rare, 150° F for medium, 160 °F for well done (not recommended).

    Recipe By: Steve Parris, Executive Chef of Marigold Cafe and Catering
     


    Roasted Lamb Loin Chops

    Total Time: 8 hours 
    Lamb Cuts: Lamb Loin Chops 
    Category: Entrees
    Servings: 2-4
    Preparation Time: 30 minutes
    Cook Time: 30 minutes (maximum) 

    Ingredients:
     
  • 4 lamb loin chops
  • 1 quart olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic, peeled
  • 2 whole, dried Ancho* Peppers
  • 1 stalk Lemon Grass, cut into ½ inch lengths
  • ¼ cup ground Ancho Powder
  • 2 tablespoons chopped or grated lemon zest
  • 1 teaspoon salt

    Directions:

     
  • Place all ingredients into an oven proof pan and cover with lid or foil.
  • Marinate at least six hours in the refrigerator.
  • Remove from the refrigerator and place into the oven
  • Turn the heat to 300 degrees
  • Poach the lamb in the oil marinade until the oven reaches 300 degrees.
  • Turn the oven off, remove the lamb from the oven and then take it out of the marinade.
  • Preheat the grill or a grill pan until hot and cook the chops until the desired doneness is achieved.

    Note:
     
  • The lamb will cook faster because of the poaching and the flavor-infusing process.
  • The lamb may be returned to a 400 degree oven to finish if you like.
  • While grilling, sprinkle with the Ancho Lemon Rub.
  • The marinated process is enhanced by the slow warming in the oven, or poaching.
  • * Ancho means "wide" in Spanish and is actually a dried Poblano Pepper. The Ancho is part of the "Holy Trinity" of Chiles used in Mole Sauces.

    Recipe By: Steve Parris, Executive Chef of Marigold Cafe and Catering
     


    Roasted Leg of Lamb with Ancho Pepper Mustard Paste

    This recipe is for lamb lovers as well as the lamb novice. It incorporates three traditional lamb seasonings, Rosemary, Parsley and garlic, but has a touch of ancho pepper and Dijon mustard incorporated into the paste in order to add a little extra flavor. Also, the leg is roasted with an assortment of vegetables in order to make the overall meal preparation that much easier. This dish would go exceptionally well with mashed potatoes.

    Total Time: 2 days 
    Lamb Cuts: Leg of Lamb
    Category: Entrees
    Servings: 6-8
    Preparation Time: 1 hour
    Cook Time: 1 hour and 15 minutes (maximum) 

    Ingredients:

  • 1 leg of lamb, bone-in and shank off, approximately 6 pounds
  • 3 large cloves garlic, cut into slivers
  • 2 bunches parsley (1/4 cup worth will be minced)
  • 4-5 branches rosemary, chopped (mince one tablespoon worth)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Sea (or kosher) salt and freshly ground pepper to taste
  • 2 large fennel bulbs, quartered
  • 8 medium shallots, quartered
  • 8 medium carrots, chopped
  • 2 ½ cups wine
  • 1-2 cups water

    Ingredients for ancho/mustard paste to smear on roast (acts as marinade):
     
  • 4 large cloves garlic, pressed
  • 1 medium ancho pepper (preferably dried & ground)
  • 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard (whole grain)
  • Puree these ingredients into a paste in a blender/food processor

    Directions:
     
  • It will take 2 days to thaw a frozen leg of lamb (in a refrigerator where it is most safe to do so). One day into the thawing process, make 25 to 30 slits about the top and sides of the leg and insert the garlic slices. Smear on the ancho/mustard paste and place into a sealable bag. Return roast to refrigerator.
  • Preheat oven to 425 degrees F. Add the shallots and carrots to a roasting pan in a thin layer. Pour in 1 cup of wine and enough water to cover around 2/3rds of the vegetables in the pan. Cook for 15-20 minutes at 425 degrees F.
  • Rub the quartered fennel bulbs with a splash of olive oil - set aside. When the shallots and carrots come out of the oven, push them to the edges of the pan. Make a bed for the roast out of the parsley and chopped rosemary branches in the center of the roasting pan. Place the leg, fat side up on the herbs and season with salt and pepper to taste - don't be stingy… Mix the minced parsley and rosemary, and press this onto the top and sides of the roast. Place the fennel around the roast. Add more water/wine to the pan when necessary throughout the cooking process - you don't want the veggies to dry out. Place the roasting pan in the oven and immediately reduce heat to 350 degrees F. Roast for about 1 hour 15 minutes (medium rare is about 125 degrees, rare is 120 degrees). The roast will rise another 10-12 degrees and continue to cook as the lamb rests for 15 minutes prior to carving.

    Note:
     
  • Deglaze the pan if you desire a sauce for the meat and vegetables. Add 1 ½ cups of wine and then reduce. Whisk in 4-5 tablespoons melted butter and serve immediately.

    Recipe By: Linda Griffith and Steve Parris, Executive Chef of Marigold Cafe and Catering
     


    Seared Lamb Round Steaks with a Balsamic Red Wine Reduction

    These steaks are lean and tasty and will cook very quickly. They will also be perfect for quick thawing for dinner on the fly. Little is needed to turn these into a wonderful, quick dinner.

    Total Time: 1 hour 
    Lamb Cuts: Lamb Steaks
    Category: Entrees
    Servings: 2-4
    Preparation Time: 30 minutes
    Cook Time: 30 minutes (maximum) 

    Ingredients:
     

  • 4 lamb round steaks
  • 1 minced Shallot
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 4 ounces oyster mushrooms, chopped
  • 1 cup red wine
  • ¼ cup balsamic vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons sugar

    Directions:
     
  • Season the lamb steaks with salt and pepper
  • Preheat the pan to the smoke point
  • Add one tablespoon oil and swirl, then whip out excess
  • Add the lamb steaks and quickly sear for 1 ½ minutes
  • Flip and repeat.
  • Remove from the pan
  • Add one minced shallot, one clove garlic (minced) and four ounces chopped oyster mushrooms
  • Add one cup red wine
  • Add ¼ cup balsamic vinegar
  • Add 2 tablespoon sugar
  • Reduce to ½ cup then pour over the lamb steaks and serve.

    Note:
     
  • A key point to remember is they will cook very quickly, so a hot pan is a must to sear the meat to lock in flavor.
  • These steaks will match very well with greens for a salad or fast reductions in the pan.

    Recipe By: Steve Parris, Executive Chef of Marigold Cafe and Catering

    Great American Lamb Company features lamb recipes for lamb entree dishes from all natural lamb lovers who want to share their lamb recipes using Great American Lamb Company's all natural lamb that is family farm produced and hormone free lamb. All natural lamb dishes accommodate any occasion and are very popular with ethnic groups such as Middle Eastern, Europe, Jewish, and many other groups. Please feel free to share an all natural lamb recipe with us.