Roast Leg of Lamb with Garlic and Rosemary

Roast Leg of Lamb with Garlic and Rosemary

This beautifully tender and aromatic roast leg of lamb, infused with garlic and rosemary, is the perfect centrepiece for your next family gathering or special occasion.

Serves: 6-8
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 1 hour 45 minutes - 2 hours

Ingredients

• 1 whole leg of lamb (2-2.5kg)
• 4 cloves garlic, sliced
• 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, cut into small pieces
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp sea salt
• 1 tsp freshly cracked black pepper
• Zest and juice of 1 lemon
• 1 cup beef stock or water

Method

1. Prepare the Lamb:

• Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
• Use a sharp knife to make small cuts across the surface of the lamb.
• Push slices of garlic and rosemary sprigs into the cuts.
• Rub the lamb with olive oil, sea salt, cracked black pepper, lemon zest, and juice.

2. Roast the Lamb:

• Place the lamb in a roasting tray and pour 1 cup of beef stock or water into the base to keep the meat juicy.
• Roast in the oven for 1 hour 45 minutes for medium-rare or 2 hours for medium. Baste the lamb with pan juices every 20-30 minutes for extra tenderness and flavour.

3. Rest the Lamb:

• Remove the lamb from the oven and loosely cover with foil. Rest for 15-20 minutes to allow the juices to settle.

4. Serve:

• Carve the lamb into thin slices and serve with roasted potatoes, seasonal vegetables, and a fresh mint sauce or gravy.

Serving Tip:

Pair this roast with a vibrant summer salad or classic sides like honey-glazed carrots, roasted kumara, and green beans.

This garlic and rosemary-infused leg of lamb is a simple, elegant recipe that delivers big on flavour and is sure to impress at any gathering.