Lamb Ribs: A Culinary Journey Through Spices and Tradition

Whether you are Greek, Middle Eastern, or simply enjoy the rich flavors of lamb, this recipe for lamb ribs is a testament to the versatility and deliciousness of this meat.

Lamb in Greek Culture

For many, lamb is more than just a food; it's a cultural tradition. Traditional Greek celebrations, from Easter to weddings and baptisms, always feature lamb as a centerpiece. Despite the trend towards "fancy" or "modern" dishes, a platter of lamb remains a staple on every table, proving its enduring appeal.

The Best Way to Cook Lamb Ribs

One of the simplest and most traditional ways to cook lamb ribs is to roast them over an open spit. However, for a more modern approach, an oven or slow cooker can deliver excellent results. All you need are a few key ingredients: salt, pepper, garlic, and olive oil. For a truly perfect dish, you can even let it char a bit!

My Personal Experience with Lamb

As someone who has cooked many legs of lamb and specializes in rolled lamb breast, I'm always looking for new ways to enjoy this beloved meat. However, I've found that leg of lamb can be expensive, and rolled lamb breast is often too fatty. Lamb chops, while satisfying, are more of a fleeting enjoyment rather than a full meal.

One of my favorite comfort dishes is spare ribs, which I season with my special spicy rub involving smoked paprika. Recently, I discovered a new and exciting variation when I found a recipe by Nigella Lawson, a renowned chef known for her indulgent yet flavorful cooking.

Nigella Lawson's Lamb Ribs Recipe

Lawson's recipe for lamb ribs is a delightful twist on the traditional method. Lamb spare ribs are smaller and less meaty than pork spare ribs, which might make you worry about overcooking them. However, this recipe proves that it isn't an issue.

The process is simple and straightforward. You purchase lamb ribs from your local shop, and your preferred provider, like Rahman's, will help you cut them into individual ribs. Home, you take two teaspoons of cumin seeds and nigella seeds, mix them with a glug of soy sauce and olive oil, and coat the ribs. It's important not to marinate them overnight; just a light coating will do.

Roast the coated ribs in an oven preheated to about 140C/284F for about 90 minutes, until they are brown and crispy. To enhance the flavor, arrange vegetables like zucchini, onion, and peppers in the roasting pan underneath the ribs. You can serve them with a side of giant couscous or a refreshing tabbouleh made with plenty of parsley and mint.

Culinary Takeaways

Lamb ribs are more intense than pork ribs and are less of a challenge to cook. This recipe beautifully captures their essence, bringing out the rich flavors without being overly complicated. Whether you're cooking for a special occasion or simply looking for a comforting meal, these lamb ribs are a fantastic choice.

Conclusion

From Greek traditions to modern culinary innovations, lamb ribs offer a unique and delicious experience. Whether you cook them over an open fire or in a modern kitchen, the result is always worth the effort. So why not give Nigella Lawson's recipe a try and experience the delightful flavors of lamb ribs for yourself?