Game-style lamb meat

Hunter-style lamb leg

Do you dream of a table full of rich aromas and delicious textures? Then, hunter-style lamb leg is the perfect choice! This recipe combines tradition with modern flavor, turning every meal into a celebration of taste. Let’s get ready to discover together the steps to prepare a juicy lamb leg, marinated in flavors, that will surely impress everyone.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Marinating time: 12 hours (or at least 3 hours)
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 12 hours and 45 minutes
Servings: 6

Ingredients:
- 1 lamb leg (approximately 1.5 - 2 kg)
- 2 bunches of green onions
- 2 bunches of green garlic
- Spices for lamb (salt, pepper, bay leaves, Cosmin spice mix)
- 4 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil
- 3 tablespoons of balsamic vinegar
- 1 green bell pepper
- 1 red bell pepper
- 1 yellow bell pepper
- 200 g fresh mushrooms

Preparation:

1. Marinating the meat: Start by preparing the lamb leg. Place the leg in a large dish that will later go into the oven. Sprinkle the spices over the meat – salt, pepper, and the spice mix for lamb. Add the olive oil and balsamic vinegar, which will not only add flavor but also help tenderize the meat.

2. Infusing flavors: Cover the dish with plastic wrap and let it sit in the fridge overnight. This step is essential to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat; if you don’t have time, let it marinate for at least 3 hours.

3. Preparing the vegetables: About 30 minutes before placing the leg in the oven, prepare the vegetables. Chop the green onions and green garlic into small pieces. Also, clean the bell peppers and mushrooms, slicing them into thin strips. These vegetables will add color and flavor to the dish.

4. Assembling the dish: Remove the dish from the fridge and add the chopped vegetables on top of the lamb leg. Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of homemade tomato paste, which will provide extra moisture and flavor to the meat.

5. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Place the dish in the oven and let it bake for about 30 minutes or until the meat turns golden and crispy on the outside, and the juices run clear.

6. Serving: Once the lamb leg is ready, take it out of the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. This will allow the juices to redistribute, ensuring tender and juicy meat. You can serve this dish alongside sides like mashed potatoes, rice, or a fresh green salad.

Practical tips:
- If you don’t have homemade tomato paste, you can use canned tomatoes. Make sure they are of good quality to not compromise the dish's flavor.
- You can experiment with different herbs, such as rosemary or thyme, which pair wonderfully with lamb.
- If you prefer a sweeter taste, you can add a few tablespoons of honey or brown sugar to the marinade.

Nutritional benefits:
Lamb is an excellent source of protein, vitamin B12, and minerals such as zinc and iron. Consumed in moderation, it is a healthy choice for festive meals. The added vegetables bring essential fiber and vitamins, thus balancing the dish.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use frozen lamb?
Yes, but make sure to thaw it completely before marinating.
- Is it possible to cook this recipe on the grill?
Absolutely! The lamb will acquire a delicious smoky flavor, but the cooking time will vary.
- How can I tell if the lamb is cooked correctly?
The meat should be tender, and the juices should run clear. An internal temperature of 70 degrees Celsius is ideal for lamb.

Possible variations:
For a more flavorful version, you can add green or black olives to the vegetable mix. You can also replace the mushrooms with zucchini or eggplant to add a note of freshness and variety.

This hunter-style lamb leg recipe is not just a main dish, but also an opportunity to gather family and friends around the table. So, share the joy of cooking and savor every moment spent around the table! Enjoy your meal!