Here's a step-by-step guide on how to cook a roast lamb leg:
Ingredients:
1 leg of lamb
4-6 cloves of garlic, minced
2 tablespoons of fresh rosemary, chopped
2 tablespoons of fresh thyme, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons of olive oil
Step 1: Preparing the Lamb Leg
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Rinse the lamb leg under cold water and pat it dry with paper towels.
Make small incisions all over the lamb leg using a sharp knife.
Step 2: Seasoning the Lamb Leg
In a small bowl, combine the minced garlic, chopped rosemary, chopped thyme, salt, and pepper.
Rub the mixture all over the lamb leg, making sure to get it into the incisions as well.
Drizzle the olive oil over the lamb leg and massage it in.
Step 3: Roasting the Lamb Leg
Place the lamb leg on a roasting rack in a roasting pan.
Cover the pan with aluminum foil, ensuring it's tightly sealed.
Transfer the pan to the preheated oven and roast for about 20 minutes per pound (45 minutes per kilogram) for medium-rare. Adjust the cooking time according to your desired level of doneness.
Remove the foil during the last 30 minutes of cooking to allow the lamb leg to brown.
Step 4: Checking the Doneness
To check the doneness of the lamb leg, insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the meat. For medium-rare, the internal temperature should be around 145°F (63°C).
If you prefer a different level of doneness, adjust the cooking time accordingly. For medium, aim for an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
Step 5: Resting and Serving
Once the lamb leg reaches your desired level of doneness, remove it from the oven.
Tent the lamb leg with foil and let it rest for about 15 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute and the meat to become tender.
Carve the lamb leg into slices and serve with your favorite side dishes, such as roasted potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad.
Enjoy your deliciously cooked roast lamb leg!
Note: Cooking times may vary depending on the size and shape of the lamb leg, as well as your oven's performance. Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the lamb is cooked to your preference.