Here comes Easter, a time of celebration and feasting for many around the world. There has been a long-standing tradition of lamb being served at Easter in many countries around the world. Why lamb, you may ask? It is because Jesus is often referred to as the 'lamb of God' in the Bible. And since Easter is a celebration of the resurrection of Jesus, eating a lamb represents not just the person being honoured, but also the sacrifice he made.
For a delicious Easter meal, here are the best cuts of lamb you should serve:
Understanding Lamb Cuts
Lamb offers a range of cuts, each with distinct flavour profiles and tenderness levels.
Lamb Shoulder: Known for its rich, slightly gamey flavour, the shoulder boasts higher fat content and connective tissue. While not the most tender cut, slow cooking methods like braising or roasting render it succulent and tender.
Lamb Legs: With a leaner profile, the leg offers a milder, sweeter taste. Naturally tender, it's versatile and suitable for various cooking methods such as roasting, grilling, or braising.
Lamb Rack: Tender and mild, the rack consists of ribs and loin meat. Its delicate flavour and tender texture make it ideal for roasting or grilling as a centrepiece dish.
Lamb Loin: The loin is prized for its tenderness and delicate flavour. It's lean with a subtle sweetness, perfect for quick cooking methods like grilling, searing, or pan-frying.
Lamb Shank: Known for its rich flavour, the shank is a tougher cut due to its higher connective tissue content. Slow cooking methods like braising or stewing break down the tissue, yielding tender, flavorful meat.
When choosing a cut, consider your preferences and cooking method. For tender, quick-cooking options, opt for the loin or rack. If you prefer a richer palate and have time for slow cooking, the shoulder or shank is ideal. Regardless of the cut, ensure proper cooking techniques to enhance flavour and tenderness.
Our top picks for Easter
Lamb shoulder: A popular choice for Easter dinner, the shoulder offers a rich, flavourful experience. While not the most tender, slow cooking methods like braising or roasting transform it into tender, melt-in-your-mouth goodness.
For a dinner serving approximately 4-6 guests, a bone-in shoulder roast weighing around 1.8-2.7 kg is ideal. Serve slices of tender shoulder alongside roasted vegetables and gravy for a memorable Easter feast.
Lamb legs: A classic centrepiece for Easter celebrations, the lamb leg offers tender, succulent meat with a mild, sweet flavour. Roasting or grilling are popular techniques; for roasting, season the leg with herbs like rosemary, garlic, and thyme for a classic touch, or try Middle Eastern spices like cumin, coriander, and paprika for an exotic twist.
For a serving size catering to approximately 6-8 guests, a leg weighing around 2.3-3.2 kg is recommended. Serve thinly sliced leg of lamb alongside roasted vegetables, mint sauce, or a flavourful pan sauce for an Easter meal to remember.
Lamb shank: Offering rich, flavourful meat, lamb shanks are a luxurious addition to any Easter table. Their intense flavour and tender texture shine when slow-cooked through methods like braising, allowing the connective tissues to break down and infuse the dish with depth. Try braising shanks in a savoury broth with aromatic vegetables and herbs like rosemary and thyme for a classic approach. For a Mediterranean twist, braise them in a tomato-based sauce with olives, capers, and dried fruits.
For an Easter gathering of about 4-6 guests, plan for 1-2 shanks per person.
For traditional Easter sides, consider roasted potatoes with rosemary, honey-glazed carrots, buttered green beans, and minted peas. Seasonal vegetables like asparagus, artichokes, and spring greens also pair well with lamb's rich flavour. Opt for vibrant salads featuring fresh herbs and citrus vinaigrettes to balance the meal. Finish with classics like hot cross buns or a light lemon tart for a refreshing dessert.
Easter Lamb FAQs
1. How do I prepare lamb for Easter?
Marinate the lamb with herbs like rosemary, thyme, and garlic to enhance its natural flavour. For roasting, score the fat to create a crispy crust and baste during cooking for added moisture.
2. What side dishes pair well with lamb?
Traditional sides include roast potatoes, spring vegetables like asparagus and peas, and mint sauce or gravy. For a modern twist, consider a herby couscous salad, roasted root vegetables, or garlic-studded flatbreads.
3. How can I ensure lamb stays tender?
Cook lamb at a consistent temperature and avoid overcooking. Resting the meat after cooking allows juices to redistribute, keeping it tender and flavourful.
4. Can I prepare lamb in advance for Easter?
Yes, you can marinate lamb up to 24 hours in advance. Cooked lamb can also be reheated gently in the oven or served cold as part of a salad or buffet.
5. What wines pair well with Easter lamb?
Red wines like Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, or Rioja pair beautifully with lamb, complementing its rich flavour. For a lighter option, try a Pinot Noir or Grenache.
Whether you opt for slow-cooked shoulder roasts, perfectly grilled legs, or aromatic braised shanks, the versatility of lamb ensures a delicious meal for your Easter gathering. Complemented by traditional sides and seasonal vegetables, the lamb can shine through, creating a memorable dining experience for family and friends.
This Easter, embrace the richness and depth of flavour that lamb brings to the table. Experiment with different cuts and cooking methods to craft a feast worthy of celebration. From classic recipes to innovative twists, let lamb be the highlight of your Easter menu, delighting all who gather around your table.
Head to our Easter shop today to start filling your basket with the finest cuts of lamb and so much more seasonal ingredients such as Jersy potatoes, asparagus or wild galirc. In need of inspiration? Check out Drogo's Kitchen and get cooking.
Happy Easter and happy feasting!
