Golden Slow-Roasted Lamb Shoulder with Lemon Zest, Garlic, Honey-Balsamic Glaze & Native Pepperberry
Description:
This golden slow-roasted lamb shoulder is rich, tender, and deeply flavorful, infused with bright lemon zest, aromatic garlic, and earthy native pepperberry. Slow cooking allows the meat to become irresistibly juicy and fall-apart tender, while a honey-balsamic glaze adds a beautiful balance of sweetness and acidity. Perfect for special occasions or a comforting family feast, this dish delivers restaurant-quality results with minimal effort.
Ingredients:
1 bone-in lamb shoulder (2–2.5 kg / 4.5–5.5 lb)
4 tbsp olive oil
Zest of 2 lemons
6 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
1 tbsp sea salt
2 tsp cracked black pepper
2 tsp native pepperberry flakes (or black pepper)
3 tbsp honey
2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
½ cup (120 ml) lamb or chicken stock
Method:
Prepare the Lamb:
Preheat the oven to 160°C / 320°F. Pat the lamb shoulder dry with paper towels. Using a sharp knife, make small slits all over the meat and insert the garlic slices evenly.
Season:
In a bowl, mix olive oil, lemon zest, sea salt, cracked black pepper, and pepperberry flakes. Rub this mixture generously over the entire lamb shoulder, ensuring it gets into all the crevices.
Roast Slowly:
Place the lamb in a large roasting pan. Pour the stock into the base of the pan. Cover tightly with foil and roast for 4 to 4½ hours, basting once or twice, until the meat is extremely tender and almost falling off the bone.
Prepare the Glaze:
In a small bowl, whisk together the honey and balsamic vinegar.
Glaze & Finish:
Remove the foil, brush the lamb generously with the honey-balsamic glaze, and increase the oven temperature to 220°C / 425°F. Roast uncovered for 20–30 minutes, until the surface is deeply golden and caramelized.
Rest & Serve:
Remove from the oven and let the lamb rest for 15 minutes before carving or pulling apart. Spoon pan juices over the meat and serve warm.
Serving Suggestion:
Serve with roasted potatoes, garlic vegetables, or a fresh green salad for a complete and elegant meal.