Curried Leg of Lamb: A Flavorful Feast for Any Occasion

Curried leg of lamb is a mouthwatering dish that combines the robust flavors of tender lamb with the exotic spices of curry. This recipe is perfect for special occasions, gatherings, or simply when you want to treat your family to a flavorful feast. The leg of lamb is marinated in a blend of spices, then slow-roasted to perfection, resulting in a dish that's bursting with flavor and incredibly tender. Whether you're a seasoned cook or trying something new, this curried leg of lamb will become a favorite in your culinary repertoire.

Ingredients

Marinade

• 1 leg of lamb (about 4-5 pounds), bone-in or boneless
• 1 cup plain yogurt
• 3 tablespoons curry powder
• 2 tablespoons garam masala
• 2 tablespoons ground cumin
• 1 tablespoon ground coriander
• 1 tablespoon turmeric
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 inches ginger, grated
• 1 teaspoon chili powder (optional, for extra heat)
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

For Roasting

• 2 large onions, sliced
• 3 large tomatoes, chopped
• 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
• Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish

Optional Accompaniments

• Basmati rice or naan bread
• Raita (yogurt sauce)
• Mango chutney

Directions

1. Prepare the Marinade

   • In a large bowl, combine the yogurt, curry powder, garam masala, ground cumin, ground coriander, turmeric, minced garlic, grated ginger, chili powder (if using), lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix well to form a thick paste.

2. Marinate the Lamb

   • Place the leg of lamb in a large dish or a resealable plastic bag. Rub the marinade all over the lamb, ensuring it is well coated. Cover the dish or seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.

3. Prepare for Roasting

   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large roasting pan, spread the sliced onions and chopped tomatoes evenly.

4. Roast the Lamb

   • Place the marinated leg of lamb on top of the onions and tomatoes in the roasting pan. Pour the chicken or vegetable broth around the lamb.
   • Cover the roasting pan with foil and roast in the preheated oven for about 2 to 2.5 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) for medium-rare, or to your desired doneness.
   • Remove the foil for the last 30 minutes of roasting to allow the lamb to brown nicely.

5. Rest and Serve

   • Once the lamb is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 15 minutes before carving. This helps retain the juices.
   • Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro and serve with basmati rice or naan bread, along with raita and mango chutney if desired.

Preparation Time

• Marinating Time: At least 4 hours (preferably overnight)
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 2 to 2.5 hours
• Total Time: Approximately 6.5 hours including marinating time

Servings

This recipe serves 6-8 people.

Curried leg of lamb is a delightful and aromatic dish that brings together the best of rich, tender lamb and flavorful spices. Perfect for special occasions or a comforting family meal, this recipe is sure to impress. With its fragrant marinade and slow-roasted tenderness, every bite is a celebration of taste and texture. Serve it with your favorite sides and enjoy a meal that's as satisfying as it is delicious. Gather your ingredients and try this recipe for a memorable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.

FAQs

Q: Can I use a boneless leg of lamb? A: Yes, both bone-in and boneless leg of lamb work well for this recipe. Adjust the cooking time as boneless lamb may cook slightly faster.

Q: What can I use as a substitute for yogurt in the marinade? A: You can substitute yogurt with coconut milk or a non-dairy yogurt alternative if you prefer.

Q: How can I make the dish spicier? A: To increase the heat, add more chili powder or incorporate fresh chopped chili peppers into the marinade.

Q: Can I prepare this dish ahead of time? A: Yes, you can marinate the lamb a day ahead and roast it when ready to serve. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Q: What side dishes pair well with curried leg of lamb? A: Traditional accompaniments include basmati rice, naan bread, raita, and mango chutney. Roasted vegetables or a fresh salad also make great sides.