Nothing says cozy home cooking quite like a delicious Basque Barbecue Leg of Lamb. This recipe combines the rich flavors of the Basque region with the comforting tradition of a classic barbecue dish. The tender and succulent leg of lamb is marinated in a flavorful mixture of herbs and spices before being grilled to perfection, resulting in a dish that is sure to impress your family and friends. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or simply looking to elevate your weeknight dinner, this recipe is a must-try for any lamb lover.
Basque Barbecue Leg of Lamb
Ingredients:
– 1 (5-6 lb) bone-in leg of lamb
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 4 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped
– 2 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped
– 1 tbsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp cayenne pepper
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– Zest of 1 lemon
– Juice of 1 lemon
– 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
– 1/4 cup honey
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, thyme, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, black pepper, lemon zest, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, and honey to make the marinade.
2. Place the leg of lamb in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish and pour the marinade over the lamb. Make sure the lamb is evenly coated with the marinade. Seal the bag or cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or ideally overnight, to allow the flavors to meld.
3. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Remove the lamb from the marinade and let it come to room temperature while the grill heats up.
4. Place the lamb on the grill and cook for about 15-20 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 135°F for medium-rare, or your desired level of doneness.
5. Remove the lamb from the grill and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the juices to redistribute and results in a juicier, more flavorful dish.
6. Slice the lamb against the grain and serve with your favorite barbecue sides, such as grilled vegetables, corn on the cob, or a fresh salad.
Whether you’re looking to impress your guests at a summer barbecue or simply want to elevate your weeknight dinner routine, this Basque Barbecue Leg of Lamb is a flavorful and satisfying dish that is sure to become a new favorite in your recipe repertoire. The combination of herbs, spices, and smoky flavors creates a mouthwatering dish that is perfect for any occasion. So fire up the grill, gather your loved ones, and enjoy this delicious and comforting meal together.
