Roast lamb with tomatoes

Roast Lamb with Tomatoes: A Festive Recipe

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Baking Time: 2 hours
Total Time: 2 hours and 20 minutes
Servings: 4

If you want to turn an ordinary meal into a memorable feast, roast lamb with tomatoes is the perfect choice. This recipe combines the delicate flavors of lamb with the freshness of tomatoes and garlic, offering an unforgettable culinary experience. Moreover, it is a simple yet impressive recipe, ideal for special occasions or holiday meals.

A Brief History of Roast Lamb

Lamb is often associated with holidays and festive meals, having a tradition of thousands of years in various cultures. It is a juicy and tender meat that pairs perfectly with spices and seasonal ingredients. Over time, roast lamb has become a symbol of hospitality and family gatherings, proudly served at Easter tables and beyond.

Necessary Ingredients

- 4 lamb rib chops
- 1 lamb neck
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon black peppercorns
- 1 teaspoon red peppercorns
- 8 garlic cloves
- 200 ml quality white wine
- 200 ml water
- 4 ripe tomatoes
- Olive oil

Ingredient Details

1. Lamb meat - Choose fresh, quality lamb meat that has a light pink color and evenly distributed fat.
2. Spices - Sea salt, thyme, black and red pepper add a deep and complex flavor. You can also use fresh spices if you have them on hand.
3. Tomatoes - Choose well-ripened, juicy, and sweet tomatoes to enhance the flavors of the dish.
4. Wine - Opt for a dry white wine, which will add pleasant acidity and help tenderize the meat.

Preparation Techniques

1. Preparing the meat
Start by preparing the lamb meat. Wash it well under cold running water, then dry it with a kitchen towel. Season with salt, thyme, black pepper, and red pepper. Let it absorb the flavors for about 15 minutes.

2. Preparing the vegetables
Chop the tomatoes into small cubes and peel the garlic cloves. You can leave them whole or cut them in half, depending on your preference.

3. Assembling the dish
In a baking dish, pour a drizzle of olive oil to grease the bottom. Place the pieces of meat in the dish, then add the chopped tomatoes and garlic cloves. Drizzle everything with white wine and water.

4. Baking
Preheat the oven to 180°C. Place the dish in the oven and let the roast cook for about 2 hours. Make sure to turn the meat occasionally for even browning and tenderness.

5. Finishing
When the roast is ready, the meat should be tender and easily pull away from the bone. The sauce made from the meat juices, tomatoes, and wine should be rich and flavorful.

Serving and Suggestions

Roast lamb with tomatoes is best served alongside warm polenta, which will absorb the delicious sauce and perfectly complement the taste of the meat. You can garnish the dish with fresh herbs, such as parsley or dill, for an extra touch of color and freshness.

Variations and Tips

If you want to add a touch of originality, try adding green or black olives during baking, or even a few slices of lemon for a note of acidity. You can also experiment with different herbs, such as rosemary or oregano.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen lamb meat?
Yes, but make sure to fully thaw it before cooking for optimal results.

2. What wine should I choose for this recipe?
A dry white wine is ideal, but you can also use red wine if you prefer a more intense flavor.

3. How well does roast lamb keep?
Roast lamb can be kept in the refrigerator for 2-3 days, but it is recommended to consume it fresh to enjoy all the flavors.

Nutritional Benefits

Lamb meat is an excellent source of protein and contains B vitamins, which are essential for energy metabolism. It also contains minerals such as iron, zinc, and phosphorus, which contribute to overall health.

Calories

A serving of roast lamb with tomatoes has approximately 400-500 calories, depending on the amount of oil used and the portion of meat. It is a rich and nourishing meal, perfect for a special occasion.

Roast lamb with tomatoes is not just a recipe but a culinary experience that blends tradition with refined taste. Get ready to impress family and friends with this delicious dish that is sure to bring smiles to everyone's faces. Enjoy your meal!