Glazed Leg of Lamb with Garlic and Rosemary

There’s something magical about cooking a roast that brings everyone together, and the Glazed Leg of Lamb with Garlic and Rosemary is a true centerpiece for any occasion. I remember the first time I prepared this dish; it was a chilly Sunday afternoon, and the aroma of roasting lamb filled my kitchen, making it feel like a warm hug. As friends and family gathered around the table, we shared stories, laughter, and of course, delicious bites of perfectly glazed lamb. Each slice revealed tender, juicy meat infused with the earthy notes of rosemary and the sweetness of orange marmalade, creating a symphony of flavors that danced on our palates. This dish is more than just a meal; it’s an experience that I cherish and look forward to recreating. Whether for a Sunday dinner or a special celebration, the Glazed Leg of Lamb with Garlic and Rosemary is bound to impress and satisfy. Let’s dive into the reasons why this recipe becomes a favorite.

What Goes Into Glazed Leg of Lamb with Garlic and Rosemary

Choosing the right ingredients is crucial for a flavorful Glazed Leg of Lamb with Garlic and Rosemary. Each component plays a vital role in crafting this delicious dish. The star, of course, is the lamb, which brings rich flavors and a satisfying texture. The garlic and rosemary add depth and aroma, while the orange marmalade provides a unique glaze that beautifully balances the savory elements. Together, these ingredients create a harmonious dish that’s both satisfying and memorable.

• 6 pound leg of lamb, bone-in: The centerpiece of this recipe, the leg of lamb, is known for its rich flavor and tenderness, especially when cooked properly.
• 4 garlic cloves, each cut into slivers: Garlic adds a delightful and aromatic taste that complements the lamb beautifully.
• 2 sprigs fresh rosemary: This herb brings an earthy, aromatic flavor that infuses the lamb with a subtle freshness.
• 2 tablespoons kosher salt: Essential for seasoning the meat, kosher salt enhances the natural flavors of the lamb.
• Freshly ground black pepper: Adds a hint of spice that balances the sweetness of the glaze.
• ½ cup orange marmalade: The secret ingredient that provides a sweet and tangy glaze, elevating the dish to new heights.

Step by Step Instructions for Glazed Leg of Lamb with Garlic and Rosemary

Cooking the Glazed Leg of Lamb with Garlic and Rosemary is a straightforward process that yields impressive results. Follow these steps, and you’ll be on your way to creating a meal that will delight your family and friends. The key is to take your time and allow the flavors to meld beautifully.

1. Start with the night before serving. Trim any excess fat from the leg of lamb and make slits in the fat pad on top of the roast, spaced one and a half inches apart. This allows the garlic and seasoning to penetrate the meat, enhancing flavor.
2. Rub the entire roast generously with kosher salt, ensuring some salt gets into the slits. This step is crucial as it seasons the meat deeply.
3. Sprinkle the roast with freshly ground black pepper to add a touch of spice that balances the sweetness of the glaze.
4. Cover the lamb with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight. This helps the flavors develop and tenderizes the meat.
5. On the day of roasting, remove the lamb from the refrigerator an hour before cooking. This allows it to reach room temperature, ensuring even cooking.
6. Insert the garlic slivers and rosemary pieces into the slits made earlier. This step infuses the lamb with aromatic flavors.
7. Preheat your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit. The high initial temperature helps to sear the meat, locking in juices.
8. Roast the lamb in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. You’re aiming for a nice crust to form on the outside.
9. After 20 minutes, reduce the oven temperature to 300 degrees Fahrenheit. This lower temperature will allow the lamb to cook slowly and evenly.
10. Brush the exposed parts of the roast with orange marmalade. This sweet glaze caramelizes as it cooks, creating a beautiful finish.
11. Baste the lamb with more marmalade approximately every 20 minutes. This keeps the meat moist and enhances the glaze.
12. Continue roasting until a meat thermometer inserted into the center reads 125 degrees Fahrenheit for rare. This should take about another hour, depending on your oven.
13. Once cooked, remove the lamb from the oven and cover it with foil. Allow it to rest for 20 to 30 minutes before carving. Resting is essential as it helps the juices redistribute throughout the meat.
14. After resting, carve the lamb and serve with your favorite sides. Enjoy the fruits of your labor!

Substitutions and Tips

Whether you’re preparing the Glazed Leg of Lamb with Garlic and Rosemary for the first time or you’re a seasoned chef, it’s always helpful to have some tips up your sleeve. Here are some practical suggestions to enhance your cooking experience.

• Storage: Leftover roasted lamb can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
• Freezing: You can freeze leftover lamb for up to three months. Make sure to slice it before freezing for easier serving later.
• Pairing: This dish pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.
• Marinade Options: Experiment with different marinades to suit your taste. Try adding herbs like thyme or mint for a twist.
• Garnishing: A sprinkle of fresh herbs before serving adds a pop of color and freshness to the dish.
• Cooking Method: If you prefer, you can also grill the lamb for a smoky flavor. Just adjust the cooking times accordingly.

Accompaniments for Glazed Leg of Lamb with Garlic and Rosemary

When serving the Glazed Leg of Lamb with Garlic and Rosemary, it’s essential to think about the perfect accompaniments to elevate your meal. Here are some delicious pairings that complement the rich flavors of roasted lamb:

• Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal vegetables such as carrots, potatoes, and Brussels sprouts adds color and nutrition to your plate.
• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with a hint of garlic pair beautifully, soaking up all the savory juices from the lamb.
• Fresh Salad: A light salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the lamb, providing a refreshing contrast.
• Grain Side Dishes: Consider serving with couscous or quinoa, which brings a nutty flavor and texture that complements the lamb.
• Seasonal Occasions: This dish is perfect for holiday gatherings, family reunions, or any special celebration where you want to impress your guests.
• Wine Pairings: For those who enjoy wine, a fruity red pairs nicely with the lamb, enhancing its flavors.
• Leftover Ideas: Use leftover lamb to create hearty sandwiches or salads the next day, ensuring nothing goes to waste.

FAQ

Conclusion

The Glazed Leg of Lamb with Garlic and Rosemary is truly a show-stopping dish, perfect for any occasion. Its rich flavors and beautiful presentation make it a centerpiece that will impress your guests. I encourage you to try this recipe and experience the joy of cooking and sharing a delicious meal with your loved ones. You won’t be disappointed with the results!

Glazed Leg of Lamb with Garlic and Rosemary

Indulge in a flavor-packed Glazed Leg of Lamb with Garlic and Rosemary that will become your go-to for any special occasion. With tender, juicy lamb infused with aromatic garlic and earthy rosemary, and topped with a sweet orange glaze, this dish is a culinary masterpiece. Impress your family and friends and make it tonight!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Course Dinner

Cuisine American

Servings 4 servings

Calories 350 kcal

Equipment

• Oven
• Baking Sheet

Ingredients

  

• 6 pound leg of lamb, bone-in
• 4 cloves garlic, each cut into slivers
• 2 sprigs fresh rosemary
• 2 tablespoons kosher salt
• Freshly ground black pepper
• ½ cup orange marmalade

Instructions

 

• Start with the night before serving. Trim any excess fat from the leg of lamb and make slits in the fat pad on top of the roast, spaced one and a half inches apart. This allows the garlic and seasoning to penetrate the meat, enhancing flavor.
• Rub the entire roast generously with kosher salt, ensuring some salt gets into the slits. This step is crucial as it seasons the meat deeply.
• Sprinkle the roast with freshly ground black pepper to add a touch of spice that balances the sweetness of the glaze.
• Cover the lamb with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight. This helps the flavors develop and tenderizes the meat.
• On the day of roasting, remove the lamb from the refrigerator an hour before cooking. This allows it to reach room temperature, ensuring even cooking.
• Insert the garlic slivers and rosemary pieces into the slits made earlier. This step infuses the lamb with aromatic flavors.
• Preheat your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit. The high initial temperature helps to sear the meat, locking in juices.
• Roast the lamb in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. You’re aiming for a nice crust to form on the outside.
• After 20 minutes, reduce the oven temperature to 300 degrees Fahrenheit. This lower temperature will allow the lamb to cook slowly and evenly.
• Brush the exposed parts of the roast with orange marmalade. This sweet glaze caramelizes as it cooks, creating a beautiful finish.
• Baste the lamb with more marmalade approximately every 20 minutes. This keeps the meat moist and enhances the glaze.
• Continue roasting until a meat thermometer inserted into the center reads 125 degrees Fahrenheit for rare. This should take about another hour, depending on your oven.
• Once cooked, remove the lamb from the oven and cover it with foil. Allow it to rest for 20 to 30 minutes before carving. Resting is essential as it helps the juices redistribute throughout the meat.
• After resting, carve the lamb and serve with your favorite sides. Enjoy the fruits of your labor!

Notes

Leftover roasted lamb can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.

You can freeze leftover lamb for up to three months. Make sure to slice it before freezing for easier serving later.

This dish pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.

Experiment with different marinades to suit your taste. Try adding herbs like thyme or mint for a twist.

A sprinkle of fresh herbs before serving adds a pop of color and freshness to the dish.

Keyword Easy Lamb Dinner, Glazed Leg of Lamb, Lamb with Garlic, Roast Lamb Recipe

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Meet Natalie Cole

I’m Natalie! I appreciate simple, honest food that nourishes the soul without requiring hours of effort. I’m always looking for smart shortcuts that save time but never sacrifice quality or taste. I cooked and photographed this meal right here in our kitchen, capturing every step to show you that a beautiful, cozy dinner is completely within reach.