On a cozy Sunday, there’s nothing quite like gathering the family around the dining table to share a warm, home-cooked meal. A perfect roast leg of lamb, flavored with fragrant rosemary, piquant garlic, and umami-rich anchovies, is the ideal centerpiece for such an occasion. This mouthwatering dish is not only a feast for the eyes but also an unforgettable gastronomic experience that will leave your family craving more.
The key to achieving that perfect roast lies in choosing a quality leg of lamb. Opt for a fresh, bone-in cut from your local butcher, as the bone imparts additional flavor during the roasting process. The ideal leg should be a deep, rich pink with a layer of creamy white fat. This marbling of fat is what ensures a tender, moist, and flavorful roast.
To prepare the leg of lamb, start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). As the oven warms up, you can begin assembling the aromatic paste that will serve as the heart of this dish. In a small bowl, combine finely chopped fresh rosemary (about 3 tablespoons), minced garlic (4-5 cloves), and 8-10 finely chopped anchovy fillets. Anchovies may seem like a surprising addition, but they serve to heighten the dish’s savory flavors rather than dominating them with a fishy taste. Add 2 tablespoons of olive oil to the mixture, along with a generous pinch of freshly ground black pepper.
Next, take a sharp knife and make small, deep incisions all over the leg of lamb. These incisions will provide pockets for the flavorful paste to infuse the meat as it roasts. Using your fingers or a spoon, stuff the rosemary-garlic-anchovy mixture into each incision, pressing it in firmly so it remains in place during cooking. Be sure to reserve a small amount of the mixture for basting later.
Once the entire leg of lamb is thoroughly coated, place it in a roasting pan with a rack. The rack will help to ensure even cooking by allowing hot air to circulate around the meat. Before placing the pan in the preheated oven, pour a cup of dry white wine or chicken stock into the bottom of the pan. This liquid will create steam during cooking, helping to keep the meat moist and tender.
Roast the leg of lamb in the oven for approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on the size and desired level of doneness. For a medium-rare roast, aim for an internal temperature of 135°F (57°C), while a medium roast should be cooked to an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). To ensure even cooking, baste the leg of lamb with the remaining rosemary-garlic-anchovy mixture and pan juices every 30 minutes.
As the lamb roasts, its tantalizing aroma will fill your home, signaling that something special is in the works. When the leg reaches the desired internal temperature, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 15-20 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a succulent, tender roast that slices like a dream.
While the lamb rests, you can prepare a simple side dish to complement its robust flavors. Consider roasting baby potatoes, seasoned with salt, pepper, and olive oil, in the oven during the last 45 minutes of the lamb’s cooking time. Alternatively, a refreshing green salad, dressed with lemon juice and olive oil, can offer a bright, crisp counterpoint to the rich, savory meat.
Once the leg of lamb has had ample time to rest, transfer it to a serving platter and surround it with your chosen side dish. Carve the lamb into thin, even slices, taking care to avoid the bone, and serve it family-style for a convivial, shared dining experience. To elevate the dish even further, consider offering a homemade mint sauce or a red wine jus for drizzling over the tender slices of lamb.
There you have it: a perfect roast leg of lamb with rosemary, garlic, and anchovies, poised to become the star of your Sunday family dinner. This dish is a beautiful marriage of flavors, with the succulent, tender meat enhanced by the aromatic rosemary, pungent garlic, and savory anchovies. Your family will be impressed by your culinary prowess and eagerly anticipate the next opportunity to enjoy this delectable roast together.
As you gather around the table to share this satisfying meal, you’ll create treasured memories and strengthen the bonds of family. The time and effort invested in preparing this perfect roast leg of lamb are more than repaid by the joy it brings to your loved ones. After all, there are few things more rewarding than a delicious, home-cooked meal, lovingly shared with family on a cozy Sunday.