lamb breast plate recipe

Lamb Breast Plate Recipe

This lamb breast plate recipe is a delicious and easy to make dish that brings out the rich flavors of lamb. With its crispy exterior and tender, juicy interior, it’s the perfect choice for a hearty family meal or a special occasion. The lamb breast plate recipe combines simple yet flavorful ingredients, making it a go to option for both novice and experienced home cooks. Whether you’re grilling, roasting, or braising, this versatile cut of lamb will shine on your dinner table.

Description:

Lamb breast plate is often overlooked but is one of the most flavorful cuts of lamb. It is a cut from the lower rib section, known for its richness and deep, savory flavor. Despite its reputation for being tougher than other cuts, when cooked correctly, lamb breast plate can become an incredibly tender and succulent dish. Thislamb breast plate recipe highlights the versatility of the cut, allowing you to experiment with different cooking methods such as roasting, braising, or grilling.

The lamb breast plate comes with a layer of fat, which, when rendered, provides a deep, flavorful base for the meat. When cooked slowly, this fat melts into the meat, resulting in a rich and juicy texture that is full of flavor. This Lamb Breast Plate Recipe uses a simple marinade of olive oil, garlic, rosemary, thyme, and lemon zest, which complements the lamb’s natural flavor without overpowering it. For added depth, the dish is finished with a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a touch of sweetness and acidity.

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility. You can adjust the seasonings to your taste, and the method of cooking is adaptable to whatever tools you have available, whether it’s a grill, oven, or stovetop. This dish pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple salad, making it the perfect option for any meal.

This Lamb Breast Plate Recipe is also ideal for those looking to enjoy a more affordable cut of lamb without sacrificing flavor. Lamb breast plate is often more budget friendly compared to more popular cuts like leg of lamb or rack of lamb, yet it offers a wonderfully rich taste that will satisfy even the most discerning carnivores. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or preparing a weeknight meal, this lamb breast plate recipe is sure to impress.

Ingredients:

2 lamb breast plates (about 2 lbs)
3 tbsp olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped (or 1 tbsp dried rosemary)
1 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped (or 1/2 tbsp dried thyme)
Zest of 1 lemon
2 tbsp balsamic vinegar (optional)
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 cup vegetable broth (or water for braising)

Instructions:

Prepare the marinade:
In a small bowl, mix the olive oil, minced garlic, rosemary, thyme, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
Marinate the lamb:
Rub the marinade all over the lamb breast plates. Make sure the meat is fully coated. Cover with plastic wrap and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for more intense flavor.
Preheat the oven or grill:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) if you’re roasting or braising. If grilling, preheat the grill to medium high heat.
Cooking in the oven:
Place the marinated lamb breast plates on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or in a roasting pan. For braising, add the vegetable broth to the pan to keep the lamb moist during the cooking process. Cover with aluminum foil and roast for about 1 hour. After 1 hour, uncover the foil, increase the temperature to 400°F (200°C), and cook for another 30 minutes or until the lamb is golden and crispy on the outside.
Grilling option:
If grilling, place the lamb on the grill over direct heat. Grill for about 5-7 minutes per side, depending on the thickness of the lamb. The lamb should have a nice char but remain tender and juicy inside.
Rest the meat:
After cooking, let the lamb breast plate rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring the meat remains tender.
Finish and serve:
Drizzle balsamic glaze (optional) over the lamb just before serving for a touch of sweetness and acidity. Slice into individual portions and serve with your favorite side dishes, such as roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes.

Notes:

Marination Time: For best results, marinate the lamb for at least 30 minutes. However, for deeper flavor, you can marinate it for up to 2 hours.
Alternative Cooking Methods: If you don’t have access to a grill or oven, you can also braise the lamb in a large Dutch oven. Cook it covered on the stovetop for about 1 hour or until tender.
Leftovers: Lamb breast plate makes great leftovers! Store any unused portions in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Serving Suggestions: This dish pairs well with a variety of sides like roasted potatoes, sautéed greens, couscous, or a fresh Greek salad.