The American Style of Cooking With Lamb: From Roast Lamb to Lamb Stews and Beyond

Welcome to a guide that delves into the world of cooking lamb, focusing on American-style recipes that emphasize the rich flavors and textures of this versatile meat. Whether it's a roasted leg of lamb best served with fresh herbs, a traditional lamb stew with Moroccan influences, or simple dishes from the South of Spain, there are countless ways to appreciate this beloved ingredient. Let's explore the art of preparing lamb in a variety of delicious ways.

Roast Lamb with Garlic and Pepper Crust

A classic choice for serving lamb is the roasted leg of lamb seasoned with olive oil, garlic, and a pepper crust. This recipe offers a rich, aromatic dish that can be enjoyed during important celebrations or just as a simple yet impressive menu option.

Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Rub a leg of lamb with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Make 12 to 16 half-inch holes in the leg of lamb and fill with garlic slices. Season the lamb with rosemary, thyme, and sea salt, and then coat it with a pepper crust, ensuring the crust completely covers the lamb. Place the lamb in a roasting pan and roast uncovered for about an hour. Reduce the oven temperature to 325°F (165°C) and continue roasting for 2 to 5 hours, depending on the size of the leg, until the internal temperature of the lamb suits your taste. Note: Always ensure the lamb is cooked to a safe internal temperature, typically 145°F (63°C) for medium, with a 3-minute rest. To serve, side dishes of small potatoes roasted in the pan, asparagus, string beans, grilled squash, and eggplant can be added. Consider roasting them with the lamb to enhance the flavors. Finish with a great red wine to pair with the meal.

Moussaka, Pasticchio, and Shepherds Pie

Moussaka, pasticchio, and shepherds pie are traditional dishes that are often enjoyed for their affordability and ease of preparation, making them suitable for serving large groups. Despite their popularity, these dishes are sometimes seen as not "traditionally" cooked, specifically in the Mediterranean tradition, where whole animals were typically reserved for special occasions.

Cooking Lamb in America

In the United States, the love for lamb has grown, especially among Greek communities. Lamb is a significant part of celebrations such as Easter, weddings, and baptisms, often serving as the centerpiece of the meal. In many homes, the traditional method of cooking lamb involves slow-roasting it on an open spit, although this is a regional specialty.

Simple and Perfect: A Quick Recipe for Roast Lamb

A quick and easy method to cook lamb involves minimal ingredients, making it a go-to choice for busy days or when you want to impress with a simple dish. The key is in the quality of the lamb and the simplicity of the preparations.

Select a high quality leg of lamb, rub it with a little olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Roast the lamb at a high temperature (425°F) for about an hour, then reduce the oven to 325°F and cook for 2 to 5 hours, depending on the size. Serve with a green vegetable, fresh bread, and, if desired, a reduction of the roasting pan juices. This dish can be even more incredible if slightly burned, showing the perfect char that enhances the flavors of the meat.

A Moroccan Influence in Lamb Stews

For something different, you might enjoy the popular Andalusian lamb stew from Spain. This dish reflects the influence of North African cooking, offering a unique blend of flavors and textures.

Cube the lamb and brown it in olive oil, then add a chopped onion and wilt it. Add dried apricots, raisins, ground cinnamon, coriander, chicken broth, salt, and pepper. Cover the stew and let it simmer for a couple of hours until the apricots start to dissolve. Serve the stew with rice and a green vegetable of your choice.

These recipes showcase the versatility and richness of lamb, whether you prefer a simple, char-grilled roast or a flavorful stew with a Mediterranean twist. Enjoy exploring these American-style lamb dishes and discover the endless possibilities that this meat offers in the kitchen.