Imagine cutting into a perfectly roasted leg of lamb, its golden herb-crusted exterior crackling with flavor, revealing a succulent, tender interior that melts in your mouth. This French-inspired Lamb in a Herb Crust is not just a recipe—it's a culinary journey that transforms an ordinary dinner into an extraordinary gourmet experience. Whether you're hosting a sophisticated dinner party or looking to impress your family with restaurant-quality cooking, this recipe is your ultimate ticket to gastronomic glory.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 1 hrs 30 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs 45 mins
Cuisine: French
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1.5 kg leg of lamb
- 2 cups fresh herbs (parsley, rosemary, thyme)
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for drizzling
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). This will ensure that your lamb cooks evenly and thoroughly.
- Prepare the leg of lamb by trimming any excess fat, if necessary. Pat it dry with paper towels to ensure a good sear and crust.
- In a food processor, combine the fresh herbs (parsley, rosemary, and thyme), garlic cloves, breadcrumbs, salt, and pepper. Pulse until the mixture is finely chopped and well combined.
- Transfer the herb mixture to a bowl and drizzle in olive oil, mixing until the breadcrumbs are lightly coated and the mixture holds together. This will help create a flavorful crust.
- Rub the leg of lamb generously with olive oil, then season it with salt and pepper on all sides to enhance the flavor.
- Press the herb and breadcrumb mixture firmly onto the surface of the lamb, ensuring it adheres well. You want a thick, even layer for maximum flavor.
- Place the lamb in a roasting pan and transfer it to the preheated oven. Roast for approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 60°C (140°F) for medium-rare, or longer if you prefer it more well done.
- During the roasting process, you may want to baste the lamb with its own juices every 30 minutes to keep it moist and enhance the flavor of the crust.
- Once the lamb is cooked to your desired doneness, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 15-20 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful meat.
- After resting, carve the lamb into slices and serve with your choice of sides, such as roasted vegetables or a fresh salad. Enjoy your delicious Lamb in a Herb Crust!
Tips
- Temperature is Key: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure precise doneness. For medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of 60°C (140°F).
- Herb Selection Matters: Use fresh herbs for the most vibrant flavor. If possible, choose organic herbs from your local farmer's market or grow them at home.
- Breadcrumb Technique: Toast your breadcrumbs lightly before mixing with herbs to enhance their nutty flavor and improve the crust's texture.
- Resting is Crucial: Never skip the resting period after cooking. This allows meat juices to redistribute, ensuring each slice is incredibly juicy.
- Olive Oil Quality: Use extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor and to help the herb crust adhere perfectly to the lamb.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 55g
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 180mg
