The Perfect Roast Leg of Lamb Recipe for Sunday Feasts

Mastering a delectable roast leg of lamb can transform your weekend dinner into a memorable culinary adventure.

Succulent meat paired with aromatic herbs promises an elegant dining experience that feels both rustic and refined.

Mediterranean traditions inspire this classic dish, bringing warmth and sophistication to your table.

Carefully selected spices and slow roasting techniques unlock deep, rich flavors that will impress even discerning palates.

Tender, juicy lamb becomes the centerpiece of an extraordinary meal that celebrates simple ingredients and expert preparation.

With minimal effort, you can create a restaurant-quality roast that delights everyone gathered around your dining table.

Let’s uncover the secrets to preparing a perfectly roasted leg of lamb that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Tasty Variations Of James Martin Roast Leg Of Lamb

• Herb-Crusted Lamb Variation: Replace hay with rosemary and thyme sprigs for an aromatic herb coating that infuses rich flavors into the meat.
• Mediterranean Style: Swap lavender with oregano and add lemon zest to create a Greek-inspired lamb roast with bright, zesty undertones.
• Gluten-Free Friendly: Use certified gluten-free oil and ensure gelatin is pure to make the recipe safe for those with gluten sensitivities.
• Low-Carb Option: Replace traditional dauphinoise with cauliflower gratin to reduce carbohydrate content while maintaining a creamy side dish.

What Pairs Well With James Martin Roast Leg Of Lamb

• Elevate Herbal Harmony: Pair a crisp Provence rosé with this lavender-infused lamb, matching the delicate floral notes of the dish.
• Complementary Wine Selection: Choose a medium-bodied Pinot Noir from Burgundy, its earthy undertones beautifully enhancing the lamb's rich flavor profile.
• Mint Jelly Companion: Serve a light, herbaceous green salad with fresh mint leaves, creating a refreshing counterpoint to the robust meat.
• Texture Contrast Side: Prepare roasted root vegetables with a hint of thyme, providing a rustic accompaniment that echoes the lamb's aromatic cooking method.

Store James Martin Roast Leg Of Lamb Properly

• Store leftover lamb in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking, keeping it in the fridge for 3-4 days.
• Wrap sliced lamb tightly in freezer-safe plastic wrap, then place in a sealed bag. Freeze for up to 3 months with minimal flavor loss.
• Place lamb slices on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in 30-second intervals until warm, checking to prevent dryness.
• Preheat oven to 160C, place lamb in a baking dish with a splash of broth, cover with foil, and warm for 10-15 minutes to retain moisture.

James Martin Roast Leg Of Lamb FAQs

• Why use hay and lavender in roasting?

Hay and lavender infuse the lamb with unique earthy, floral aromatics, creating a more complex and sophisticated flavor profile that elevates the traditional roast lamb.

• Can I substitute fresh mint in the jelly?

Yes, you can use dried mint if fresh is unavailable, but fresh mint provides a more vibrant and bright flavor to the jelly. Adjust quantities to taste.

• What's the purpose of the mint jelly?

The mint jelly adds a classic accompaniment to lamb, providing a sweet and tangy contrast to the rich, savory meat, which is a traditional pairing in British cuisine.

Why James Martin Roast Leg Of Lamb Impresses

• Elevate Rustic Dining: This leg of lamb recipe transforms a classic dish into an elegant, herb-infused experience with unique hay and lavender roasting technique.
• Gourmet Meets Simplicity: Despite its sophisticated appearance, the recipe requires minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, making restaurant-quality cooking accessible at home.
• Sensory Celebration: The combination of fragrant lavender, fresh mint jelly, and perfectly roasted lamb creates a multi-dimensional flavor journey that delights taste buds and stimulates the senses.
• Impressive Entertaining Option: Perfect for special gatherings, this dish offers a stunning centerpiece that looks professionally prepared but can be created with basic cooking skills.

James Martin Roast Leg Of Lamb Ingredient List

• Leg of Lamb: A tender and flavorful cut perfect for roasting, providing the main protein for this elegant dish.

• Olive Oil: Helps create a crispy exterior and adds richness to the lamb.
• Salt, Black Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance the natural flavor of the meat.

• Hay, Lavender: Create an aromatic base that infuses the lamb with subtle herbal notes during roasting.
• Mint Leaves: Adds a fresh, classic flavor to the accompanying jelly.

• Vinegar, Sugar: Form the base of a tangy-sweet jelly that complements the rich lamb.
• Gelatine: Helps set the mint jelly into a delicate, wobbling accompaniment.

How To Roast James Martin Leg Of Lamb Perfectly

Step 1: Prepare Roasting Environment

Line a roasting tin with fresh hay and lavender sprigs to create an aromatic base for the lamb. The herbs will infuse subtle fragrant notes into the meat during cooking.

Step 2: Season and Massage Lamb

Gently massage the lamb with olive oil, then sprinkle with sea salt and cracked black pepper. Ensure the entire surface is evenly coated for maximum flavor development.

Step 3: Begin Roasting

Place the seasoned lamb directly on the hay-lined roasting tin. Slide the tin into a preheated oven at 350°F. If the hay begins to brown too quickly, loosely cover with aluminum foil to prevent burning.

Step 4: Roast to Perfection

Cook the lamb for approximately 2 hours, allowing the meat to develop a rich, golden exterior while maintaining a tender interior. Use a meat thermometer to check internal temperature for desired doneness.

Step 5: Create Mint Jelly

• Simmering white wine vinegar
• Adding granulated sugar
• Incorporating fresh mint leaves
• Dissolving gelatine into the mixture

Chill the jelly until it sets completely.

Step 6: Rest and Slice

Remove the lamb from the oven and let it rest for 20 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and flavorful result. Slice against the grain for maximum tenderness.

Step 7: Serve and Garnish

Plate the lamb alongside creamy dauphinoise potatoes. Drizzle with rich gravy and accompany with the prepared mint jelly. Garnish with additional fresh herbs for a beautiful presentation.

Tips For Juicy James Martin Roast Leg Of Lamb

• Elevate Flavor with Hay and Lavender: Line the roasting tin with fresh hay and lavender to infuse the lamb with subtle, aromatic notes that enhance its natural richness.
• Master the Perfect Roasting Time: Cook the lamb for approximately 2 hours, keeping an eye on the hay to prevent over-browning by loosely covering with foil if needed.
• Rest for Maximum Juiciness: Allow the lamb to rest for 20 minutes after roasting, which helps redistribute the juices and ensures each slice is tender and succulent.
• Create Stunning Mint Jelly: Prepare a sophisticated mint jelly by simmering vinegar and sugar, then adding fresh mint and gelatine for a delicate, complementary accompaniment.

Roast Leg Of Lamb Recipe

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4.6 from 12 reviews

• Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Mediterranean herb-crusted roast leg of lamb promises a culinary journey through Greece’s sun-drenched landscapes. Succulent meat infused with rosemary, garlic, and lemon creates an unforgettable dining experience you will savor with each tender, aromatic bite.

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients:

• 1 leg lamb
• 25 milliliters (0.85 fluid ounces) vegetable oil
• Salt
• Pepper

Herbs and Aromatics:

• 1 small bunch lavender
• 1 small bunch mint

Accompaniments and Additional Ingredients:

• Hay (to cover roasting tray)
• 50 grams (1.76 ounces) caster sugar
• 100 milliliters (3.4 fluid ounces) white wine vinegar
• 4 gelatine leaves
• Dauphinoise potatoes
• Gravy

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Instructions

1. Prepare the roasting tin by lining it with a fragrant bed of hay and lavender, creating an aromatic base for the lamb.
2. Massage the lamb with a light coating of oil, then generously season with salt and pepper, ensuring even coverage.
3. Carefully position the seasoned lamb atop the hay and lavender, arranging it precisely in the preheated oven at 180°C.
4. Roast the lamb for approximately 2 hours, monitoring the hay to prevent excessive browning. If needed, loosely tent with foil to protect the delicate aromatics.
5. While the lamb cooks, craft a delicate mint jelly by simmering vinegar and sugar, then incorporating mint and carefully dissolving gelatine.
6. Refrigerate the mint jelly to set, allowing it to develop a clear, vibrant consistency.
7. Once cooking is complete, remove the lamb from the oven and let it rest for 20 minutes, allowing the juices to redistribute and ensure tender, succulent meat.
8. Slice the lamb with precision, revealing the perfectly cooked interior.
9. Present the roasted lamb alongside creamy dauphinoise potatoes, rich gravy, and the chilled mint jelly for a sophisticated and flavorful dining experience.

Notes

• Hay and lavender add an aromatic, earthy essence that infuses the lamb with delicate herbal notes during roasting.
• Using a meat thermometer ensures precise doneness, preventing overcooking and maintaining juicy, tender meat.
• Gluten-free diets can enjoy this recipe by verifying gelatine and checking mint jelly ingredients for potential wheat-based additives.
• Create a lighter version by reducing oil and using lean lamb cuts, which cuts down on fat without compromising flavor intensity.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 2 hours
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Roasting
• Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 630 kcal
• Sugar: 12 g
• Sodium: 450 mg
• Fat: 40 g
• Saturated Fat: 15 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 20 g
• Trans Fat: 0.5 g
• Carbohydrates: 30 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 50 g
• Cholesterol: 120 mg