Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 leg of lamb (about 5-6 pounds)
- 1/2 cup of fresh blessed thistle leaves, chopped
- 10 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 cup of olive oil
- 2 teaspoons of salt
- 1 teaspoon of black pepper
- 1 lemon, juiced
Special equipment needed:
- Roasting pan
- Meat thermometer
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the chopped blessed thistle leaves, minced garlic, olive oil, salt, and black pepper.
3. Rub the mixture all over the leg of lamb, making sure to get it into all the crevices.
4. Place the lamb in a roasting pan and roast in the oven for about 2 to 2 1/2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F for medium-rare.
5. Remove the lamb from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes before carving.
6. Squeeze the lemon juice over the lamb before serving.
- Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 2 to 2 1/2 hours
Temperature:
- Oven temperature: 350°F
- Internal temperature of lamb: 145°F for medium-rare
Serving size:
- 6-8 servings
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 450
- Fat: 24g
- Protein: 50g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 800mg
Substitutions for ingredients:
- If you can't find blessed thistle, you can substitute with fresh rosemary or thyme.
Variations:
- For a different flavor, you can substitute the garlic with shallots or onions.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to let the lamb rest before carving to allow the juices to redistribute.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the lamb is cooked to your desired level of doneness.
Storage instructions:
- Store any leftover lamb in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
- To reheat, place the lamb in a baking dish and cover with foil. Bake in a 350°F oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve the lamb on a platter with some fresh herbs and lemon wedges.
Garnishes:
- Fresh herbs, lemon wedges
Pairings:
- Serve with a side of roasted vegetables or a simple salad.
Suggested side dishes:
- Roasted vegetables (such as carrots, potatoes, and Brussels sprouts)
- Simple salad (such as arugula with lemon vinaigrette)
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the lamb is not cooked to your desired level of doneness, you can put it back in the oven for a few more minutes.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to wash your hands and all surfaces that come into contact with raw meat to prevent cross-contamination.
Food history:
- Blessed thistle has been used for centuries as a medicinal herb and is believed to have many health benefits.
Flavor profiles:
- The lamb has a rich, savory flavor that is complemented by the earthy taste of the blessed thistle and the pungent flavor of the garlic.
Serving suggestions:
- This dish is perfect for a special occasion or holiday meal.
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