Rich Holiday Roast Lamb with Herb-Infused Lemon Sauce
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Indulge in the delectable flavors of a perfectly roasted lamb enhanced with a fragrant herb-infused lemon sauce. This dish, bursting with savory and citrusy notes, is an ideal centerpiece for any festive gathering or special occasion.
Description:
Roasting a lamb is a time-honored tradition that brings together family and friends. This particular recipe elevates the classic roast lamb by incorporating a vibrant herb and lemon marinade that infuses the meat with deep and satisfying flavors. Bottled up with aromatic herbs such as rosemary and thyme, and freshened with the zest and juice of lemon, this roast lamb promises to be a memorable addition to your holiday table.
Ingredients:
- 1 leg of lamb (about 4-5 pounds)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
- 1 tablespoon flour (for thickening the sauce)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare the marinade: In a small bowl, combine the minced garlic, chopped rosemary, and thyme, lemon zest and juice, olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to form a marinade.
3. Marinate the lamb: Place the leg of lamb in a roasting pan. Rub the herb and lemon marinade all over the lamb, ensuring it is evenly coated. Allow the lamb to marinate for at least 30 minutes to absorb the flavors. For best results, marinate for several hours or overnight in the refrigerator.
4. Roast the lamb: Place the marinated lamb in the preheated oven and roast for approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) for medium-rare, 160°F (71°C) for medium. Baste the lamb occasionally with the pan juices to keep it moist.
5. Make the sauce: Once the lamb is cooked to your desired doneness, remove it from the oven and transfer it to a serving platter to rest. Place the roasting pan on the stovetop over medium heat. Add the chicken broth and white wine (if using) to the pan, scraping up the browned bits from the bottom.
6. Thicken the sauce: In a small bowl, mix the flour with a bit of water to create a slurry. Gradually add this slurry to the roasting pan, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens to your liking.
7. Serve: Slice the roast lamb and serve it with the herb-infused lemon sauce drizzled over the top. Pair with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables or creamy mashed potatoes.
Enjoy your Rich Holiday Roast Lamb with Herb-Infused Lemon Sauce, and savor the delightful combination of flavors that will surely impress your guests.
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