Introduction
Discover the perfect dinner centerpiece with this Plum-Glazed Lamb Recipe. Combining the natural sweetness of ripe plums with the savory richness of lamb, this dish offers an elevated flavor profile that’s perfect for holidays, special gatherings, or weekend feasts.
Ingredients
For the Lamb
- 1 bone-in leg of lamb (about 4-5 lbs)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
For the Plum Glaze
- 4 fresh plums, pitted and diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Lamb
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Pat the leg of lamb dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt and black pepper.
2. Sear the Lamb
- Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet or roasting pan over medium-high heat.
- Sear the lamb on all sides until golden brown, about 4-5 minutes per side. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Make the Plum Glaze
- In a small saucepan, combine diced plums, honey, soy sauce, garlic, and rosemary.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the plums break down and the mixture thickens into a glaze, about 10 minutes.
4. Glaze the Lamb
- Brush half of the plum glaze generously over the lamb. Reserve the remaining half for basting during roasting.
5. Roast the Lamb
- Transfer the lamb to the oven and roast for 1 hour and 20 minutes, basting with the remaining glaze every 20 minutes.
- For optimal doneness, use a meat thermometer:
- Medium-Rare: 135°F (57°C)
- Medium: 145°F (63°C)
6. Rest and Serve
- Remove the lamb from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before carving. This step ensures the juices redistribute, keeping the meat tender.
- Slice and serve with any remaining glaze on the side for added flavor.
Pro Tips for Perfect Plum-Glazed Lamb
- Tenderness Tip: Bring the lamb to room temperature for 30 minutes before searing for even cooking.
- Make It Ahead: Prepare the plum glaze a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator.
- Pairings: Serve with roasted vegetables, creamy mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
Nutritional Information
- Serving Size: 6 servings
- Calories per Serving: ~480 kcal
- Protein: 32g
- Fat: 24g
- Carbs: 15g
FAQs
1. Can I use boneless lamb for this recipe?
Yes! Adjust the cooking time slightly as boneless lamb cooks faster.
2. What if fresh plums aren’t available?
Substitute with canned or frozen plums. Reduce the honey slightly as canned plums are sweeter.
3. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover lamb in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven to avoid drying out.
Conclusion
This Plum-Glazed Lamb Recipe is a true show-stopper, combining the savory richness of lamb with the fruity tang of plum glaze. Perfect for family dinners, holiday celebrations, or special occasions, this dish is sure to impress.
What’s your favorite way to glaze lamb? Share your tips in the comments below!