Spiced lamb baked in the oven combines the warmth of spices with the rich, savory flavors of lamb. With rosemary, basil, and a hint of olive oil, this dish is simple yet deeply flavorful, and it’s perfect for family gatherings or special meals. Paired with fluffy rice and a fresh vegetable salad, it makes a complete and satisfying meal that’s sure to impress.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Dish
Cooking lamb in the oven keeps it tender while allowing the flavors to develop as it slowly roasts. The spices create a flavorful crust, and the addition of potatoes and carrots transforms this dish into a hearty one-pan meal. With minimal preparation, you’ll have a dish that fills the kitchen with an incredible aroma and provides a delicious feast for everyone.
Ingredients
For this recipe, you’ll need simple ingredients that blend beautifully with the lamb, bringing out its best flavors:
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances the natural taste of the lamb.
- 1 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a mild heat and pairs well with other spices.
- 1 bay leaf: Provides a subtle, herbal flavor.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Keeps the lamb moist and carries the flavors of the spices.
- ½ teaspoon dried rosemary: Offers a woody, fragrant aroma that pairs perfectly with lamb.
- ½ teaspoon dried basil: Adds a hint of sweetness to balance the savory lamb.
- 500 grams of lamb: Preferably bone-in for added flavor, cut into medium-sized pieces.
- 1 cup water: Helps create a moist, tender dish and prevents the lamb from drying out.
- 4 potatoes, diced: Soaks up the flavors from the lamb juices and adds heartiness.
- 2 carrots, sliced into rounds: Adds a sweet and earthy flavor, complementing the lamb.
Step-by-Step Preparation
- Preheat the oven: Set the oven to 250°C (482°F) to create a high temperature initially, which helps to sear the lamb, locking in its juices and flavor.
- Prepare the spice mixture: In a small bowl, combine salt, black pepper, rosemary, basil, and a bay leaf. Mix well to create a balanced blend of spices.
- Add olive oil: Pour the olive oil into the spice mixture and stir until it forms a smooth paste. The oil will help the spices adhere to the lamb and keep it moist as it cooks.
- Season the lamb: Rub the spice mixture onto the lamb pieces, ensuring they’re fully coated. This seasoning step is essential as it adds flavor to each bite of the lamb.
- Roast the lamb: Place the lamb pieces in a baking dish, ensuring they’re spread out in a single layer. Roast in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. This initial roasting creates a flavorful crust on the outside of the lamb.
- Add water and vegetables: Remove the baking dish from the oven. Pour in one cup of water and add the diced potatoes and sliced carrots around the lamb pieces. The water will help create steam, keeping the meat and vegetables moist and tender.
- Cover and bake: Reduce the oven temperature to 200°C (392°F). Cover the dish with aluminum foil, sealing it well to trap the steam. Bake for an additional 40 minutes or until the lamb is tender and the vegetables are fully cooked.
- Serving suggestion: Once cooked, transfer the lamb and vegetables onto a large serving platter. Garnish with fresh rosemary or basil leaves for a beautiful presentation. Serve hot with a side of fluffy rice, lemon slices, and a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Tips and Variations
- Choice of Meat: Lamb shoulder or shank works wonderfully in this recipe due to their tenderness and flavor. If you prefer, you can use bone-in lamb for added richness.
- Vegetable Variations: In addition to potatoes and carrots, consider adding other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for extra flavor and color.
- Spice Adjustments: Adjust the seasoning to your taste by adding a pinch of cayenne pepper for heat, or a touch of cumin or paprika for depth. Fresh garlic cloves can also be added for extra aroma.
- Marinating for Extra Flavor: For a deeper flavor, marinate the lamb in the spice mixture for 1-2 hours (or overnight in the refrigerator). This allows the spices to penetrate the meat, making it more flavorful.
- Lemon for Freshness: Adding a few lemon slices to the dish before baking or squeezing lemon juice over the finished dish brightens the flavors and adds a refreshing touch.
Serving Ideas and Complements
For a complete meal, serve the spiced lamb with the following sides:
- Rice: A side of steamed basmati or jasmine rice complements the savory, spiced lamb. The rice absorbs the flavorful juices from the lamb and makes each bite more satisfying.
- Salad: A light, fresh vegetable salad adds a crisp, refreshing contrast to the rich lamb. Try a mix of cucumber, tomatoes, red onion, and greens with a simple lemon and olive oil dressing.
- Warm Bread: Serve the lamb with warm, crusty bread like French baguette or pita for scooping up the sauce. This is especially enjoyable if you make extra sauce by adding more water or a splash of broth to the dish.
- Yogurt Dip: A simple mint or garlic yogurt dip on the side can help balance the flavors and add a cool, creamy element.
Additional Tips for Perfect Spiced Lamb
Resting the Lamb: After removing the lamb from the oven, let it rest for about 5-10 minutes before serving. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute within the meat, enhancing its juiciness and flavor.
Preparing in Advance: You can make this dish ahead of time if you’re planning for a gathering or want to simplify your meal prep. Reheat it in a low-temperature oven (approximately 150°C or 302°F) for 15-20 minutes to warm it up without drying out the meat.
Storing Leftovers: Place any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate them for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheat the lamb gently on the stovetop or in the oven, adding a little water or broth if needed to keep it moist.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
This lamb dish is protein-rich and offers a balanced nutritional profile:
- Calories: Approximately 450-500 calories
- Protein: 25-30 grams
- Carbohydrates: 30-35 grams (mainly from the potatoes and carrots)
- Fats: 20-25 grams, primarily from olive oil and lamb
- Fiber: 4-6 grams from the vegetables
- Vitamins: Contains vitamin A (from carrots), B vitamins, and iron
Conclusion
Baking spiced lamb with potatoes and carrots in the oven offers an effortless way to create a memorable and flavorful meal. The dish combines tender, juicy lamb with aromatic herbs and well-seasoned vegetables, making it a wonderful choice for family dinners or special occasions. Its simplicity in preparation and richness in flavor make it a perfect go-to recipe that brings warmth and satisfaction to the table.
Feel free to customize the spices or add your favorite vegetables for a personal twist. Serve alongside a bowl of rice and a fresh salad to round out the meal, and enjoy every bite of this delicious, oven-baked lamb creation.