ROASTED LAMB

Oven-roasted lamb is a classic recipe that delights loved ones with its unmistakable aroma and tender texture. This dish is not just a meal, but a culinary experience that revives memories and brings people together around the table. Whether you're preparing a festive lunch or a weekend dinner, this roast will surely become your household's favorite. Let's get started!

Total preparation time: 3 hours (including baking time)
Number of servings: 6

Necessary ingredients:
- 1.5 kg lamb leg (ideal for roasting)
- 5-6 garlic cloves (to give it an intense flavor)
- 2-3 green garlic stalks (for a touch of freshness)
- 10 peppercorns (an essential spice for flavor)
- 5-6 allspice berries (to give it an exotic taste)
- 1 teaspoon thyme (dried or fresh, according to preference)
- 1 teaspoon oregano (for a Mediterranean note)
- 1 teaspoon basil (for an intense, sweet aroma)
- 1 tablespoon Delikat (or any other preferred seasoning)
- 200 ml red wine (to tenderize the meat and intensify the flavors)
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste (for a delicious glaze)

Preparation:

Step 1: Preparing the meat
Start by washing the lamb leg well under cold running water. It is important to remove any impurities to achieve a pure and savory taste. After washing, dry the meat well with a paper towel. This will help it brown evenly in the oven.

Step 2: Scoring the meat
Use a sharp knife to make a few deep incisions in the meat. These cuts not only help the flavors penetrate but also allow for even cooking. In these cuts, place a few garlic cloves cut in half. The flavors will infuse into the meat, providing a remarkable taste.

Step 3: Seasoning
In a bowl, mix the peppercorns, allspice, thyme, oregano, basil, and Delikat. This mixture will become your "marinade". Generously sprinkle it over the meat, ensuring it gets well into the cuts made earlier. Let the meat sit like this for about 30 minutes. This waiting time will allow the spices to integrate.

Step 4: Preparing the oven
Preheat the oven to 180°C. A perfect temperature to roast the lamb so that it becomes tender and juicy.

Step 5: Baking in the oven
Place the lamb leg in a baking tray. Add water up to halfway up the meat, along with the peppercorns and allspice. These will flavor the liquid in which the meat will cook. Cover the tray with aluminum foil and put it in the oven. Let it bake for one hour.

Step 6: Adding additional ingredients
After one hour, remove the tray from the oven. It’s time to add the sliced green garlic, red wine, and tomato paste. These ingredients will not only intensify the flavor but also help create a delicious sauce.

Step 7: Continuing to cook
Cover the tray again with aluminum foil and let it bake for another hour to an hour and a half. It is important to check the meat every 30 minutes, turning it to brown evenly. This step is essential to achieve that golden and appetizing crust.

Step 8: Serving
Once the roast is ready, take it out of the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes. This is an essential step, as it allows the juices in the meat to redistribute, ensuring a juicy roast. Serve the roast alongside sides like mashed potatoes, grilled vegetables, or a fresh salad.

Practical tips:
- When choosing lamb, look for meat with a thin layer of fat, which will help maintain juiciness.
- If you prefer a stronger flavor, you can add fresh herbs like rosemary or sage.
- Don't hesitate to experiment with different types of red wine; each will add a unique note.

Calories and nutritional benefits:
A serving of lamb roast (approximately 200g) contains about 350-400 calories. Lamb is a good source of protein, iron, and vitamin B12, thus contributing to a balanced diet.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use another type of meat?
Yes, you can try this recipe with pork or beef, but the cooking time will change depending on the type of meat chosen.

- How can I make the sauce thicker?
If you want a thicker sauce, you can add a tablespoon of flour or cornstarch diluted in water at the end of the cooking time.

- What sides go best?
Lamb roast pairs wonderfully with creamy mashed potatoes, grilled vegetables, or a fresh green salad.

This oven-roasted lamb is not just a simple dish, but a true celebration of flavors. Each bite will bring you a touch of joy and warmth, transforming any meal into a special moment. Share this recipe with your loved ones and enjoy the memories created around the table!