When it comes to impressing your guests at a special occasion, there’s nothing quite like serving up a tender and flavorful lamb shoulder dish. Whether you’re looking for a show-stopping centerpiece or a comforting, crowd-pleasing main course, lamb shoulder is the perfect choice. With its rich flavor profile and fall-apart texture, it’s no wonder this cut of meat has been a favorite among chefs and home cooks alike.
In this article, we’ll be exploring 18 succulent lamb shoulder recipes that are sure to impress your friends and family. From classic slow-cooked dishes like braises and stews, to more adventurous options like tagines and kebabs, there’s something for everyone in this diverse collection of recipes.
Slow-Roasted Garlic and Herb Lamb Shoulder
Elevate your Sunday roast with this mouthwatering slow-roasted lamb shoulder recipe, infused with the deep flavors of garlic and herbs. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy family dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 boneless lamb shoulder (about 2 kg)
– 4-6 cloves of garlic, peeled and minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 150°C (300°F).
2. In a small bowl, mix together garlic, olive oil, rosemary, and thyme.
3. Rub the mixture all over the lamb shoulder, making sure it’s evenly coated.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Place the lamb shoulder in a large roasting pan or Dutch oven, bone-side down.
6. Roast for 2-1/2 hours per kilogram (for example, 5-6 hours for a 2 kg shoulder).
7. Remove from the oven when the meat is tender and falls apart easily.
Cooking Time: 4-6 hours
Moroccan-Spiced Braised Lamb Shoulder
This rich and aromatic dish is a perfect representation of Moroccan cuisine’s bold flavors and tender textures. The slow-cooked lamb shoulder, infused with the warmth of cumin, coriander, and cinnamon, will surely become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs lamb shoulder, bone-in
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp ground coriander
– 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 1 cup lamb broth or beef broth
– 1 cup red wine (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven, heat oil over medium-high. Sear lamb shoulder until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in cumin, coriander, cinnamon, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Add broth and red wine (if using). Bring to a simmer.
6. Cover the pot and transfer to the oven. Braise for 2-3 hours or until lamb is tender.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Rosemary and Red Wine Braised Lamb Shoulder
Elevate your lamb dish with this aromatic braise that combines the piney flavor of rosemary with the richness of red wine. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy Sunday dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1.5 kg lamb shoulder, bone-in
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 4 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– 250ml red wine (Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot work well)
– 250ml beef broth
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 150°C (300°F).
2. Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown the lamb shoulder on all sides, about 5 minutes.
3. Add chopped rosemary, red wine, beef broth, garlic, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
4. Cover the pot with a lid and transfer it to the preheated oven. Braise for 2 hours, or until the meat is tender and falls apart easily.
5. Remove from the oven and let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 2 hours
Greek-Style Lemon and Oregano Lamb Shoulder
This hearty lamb shoulder recipe is infused with the bright flavors of Greece, perfect for a special occasion or a cozy dinner at home. Tender and juicy on the inside, crispy on the outside, this dish is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1.5 kg lamb shoulder
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 4 tbsp olive oil
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tsp dried oregano
– 1 tsp salt
– 0.5 tsp black pepper
– 1 onion, sliced
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. In a small bowl, mix together lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper.
3. Score the lamb shoulder in a diamond pattern, being careful not to cut too deeply.
4. Place the lamb on a roasting pan, skin side up. Brush the lemon-herb mixture evenly over the meat.
5. Roast for 2 hours, then reduce heat to 160°C (325°F) and continue cooking for an additional 1 hour.
6. Remove from oven and let rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
Cooking Time: 3 hours
Middle Eastern Lamb Shoulder with Pomegranate Glaze
This slow-cooked lamb shoulder dish is a staple of Middle Eastern cuisine, infused with the sweet and tangy flavors of pomegranate. The tender meat falls apart effortlessly, coated in a rich and fruity glaze that’s perfect for special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 1 lamb shoulder (about 2 lbs), bone-in
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 1 cup pomegranate juice
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine lamb shoulder, olive oil, garlic, cumin, coriander, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
3. Place the lamb in a large Dutch oven or oven-safe pot. Cover with a lid or foil.
4. Roast for 2 hours.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together pomegranate juice, honey, and lemon juice. Brush the glaze over the lamb during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
6. Let the lamb rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 3 hours (2 hours roasting + 1 hour with glaze)
Indian Butter Lamb Shoulder with Creamy Sauce
This Indian-inspired recipe combines the tender flavors of lamb shoulder with a rich and creamy sauce, perfect for special occasions or cozy nights in. With its bold spices and velvety texture, this dish is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs lamb shoulder, boneless
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp ground coriander
– 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
– 1/2 tsp garam masala powder
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Season lamb shoulder with cumin, coriander, turmeric, garam masala, and cayenne pepper.
3. Heat butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat; brown lamb shoulder on all sides, about 5 minutes. Transfer to a baking dish.
4. In the same skillet, sauté onion and garlic until softened, about 3 minutes.
5. Pour heavy cream into the skillet, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.
6. Simmer sauce over low heat for 10-15 minutes or until thickened.
7. Serve lamb shoulder with creamy sauce spooned over the top, garnished with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 2 hours
Smoked Lamb Shoulder with Honey Mustard Glaze
Elevate your barbecue game with this tender and flavorful smoked lamb shoulder, smothered in a sweet and tangy honey mustard glaze. Perfect for special occasions or everyday gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 (2-3 pound) lamb shoulder
– 1 cup wood chips (preferably hickory or apple)
– 1/4 cup honey mustard glaze (see below)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Honey Mustard Glaze:
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat smoker to 225°F (110°C).
2. Season lamb shoulder with salt and pepper.
3. Place lamb shoulder in smoker, fat side up. Close lid and smoke for 4-5 hours or until tender.
4. Meanwhile, prepare honey mustard glaze by whisking together all ingredients.
5. During the last 30 minutes of smoking, brush lamb shoulder with honey mustard glaze every 10 minutes.
6. Remove from heat and let rest for 15 minutes before slicing.
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours + 30 minutes (glazing)
Lamb Shoulder Tagine with Apricots and Almonds
Lamb Shoulder Tagine with Apricots and Almonds: A rich and flavorful Moroccan-inspired dish that’s perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 lamb shoulder, bone-in
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup dried apricots
– 1/2 cup chopped almonds
– 1 tablespoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1/4 cup honey
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or tagine, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Brown the lamb shoulder on all sides, about 5 minutes per side. Remove from pot and set aside.
4. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
5. Add the garlic, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
6. Add the apricots, almonds, chicken broth, and honey. Stir to combine.
7. Return the lamb shoulder to the pot, cover, and transfer to the preheated oven.
8. Braise for 2 1/2 hours or until the meat is tender and falls apart easily.
Cooking Time: 2 1/2 hours
Herb-Crusted Lamb Shoulder with Mint Jelly
A classic combination of flavors, this recipe showcases the tender lamb shoulder crusted with a fragrant herb mixture and served with a sweet and tangy mint jelly.
Ingredients:
– 1 lamb shoulder (about 2 lbs)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh thyme
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Mint jelly, for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, rosemary, thyme, and garlic powder.
3. Rub the herb mixture all over the lamb shoulder, making sure to coat it evenly.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Place the lamb shoulder in a roasting pan and roast for 2-1/2 hours, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
6. Let the lamb rest for 15 minutes before slicing and serving with mint jelly.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Lamb Shoulder Stew with Root Vegetables
Lamb Shoulder Stew with Root Vegetables: A hearty and comforting dish perfect for a chilly evening. This recipe is a delicious combination of tender lamb shoulder, rich broth, and flavorful root vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb lamb shoulder, bone-in
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 2 potatoes, peeled and chopped
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 cup lamb broth or beef broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear the lamb shoulder until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes. Remove the lamb from pot and set aside.
3. Add the onion, garlic, carrots, celery, and potatoes to the pot. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 10-12 minutes.
4. Add the chicken broth, lamb broth or beef broth, and thyme to the pot. Stir to combine.
5. Return the lamb shoulder to the pot and bring to a boil.
6. Cover the pot with a lid and transfer it to the preheated oven. Braise for 2-3 hours, or until the lamb is tender.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Persian Lamb Shoulder with Saffron and Barberries
Experience the rich flavors of Persian cuisine with this slow-cooked lamb shoulder dish, infused with saffron’s subtle earthiness and the tangy sweetness of barberries.
Ingredients:
– 1.5 kg lamb shoulder
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp ground coriander
– 1/2 tsp saffron threads, soaked in 2 tbsp hot water
– 1 cup barberries (zereshk)
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 150°C.
2. In a large Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic, cumin, coriander, and saffron with its liquid. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Add lamb shoulder, salt, and black pepper. Brown the lamb on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Add barberries and enough water to cover the lamb. Cover the pot and transfer to the preheated oven.
6. Braise for 2.5 hours or until the lamb is tender.
Cooking Time: 2.5 hours
Lamb Shoulder Ragu with Pappardelle Pasta
This hearty, slow-cooked lamb ragu is a perfect comfort food dish, rich in flavor and texture. Served with pappardelle pasta, it’s an Italian-inspired meal that’s sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb lamb shoulder, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 cup red wine
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8 oz pappardelle pasta
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown lamb shoulder, then set aside.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add red wine, beef broth, crushed tomatoes, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Return lamb shoulder to the pot, cover, and transfer to the preheated oven.
6. Simmer for 2 1/2 hours or until lamb is tender.
7. Cook pappardelle pasta according to package instructions.
8. Serve ragu over pasta with grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Cooking Time: 2 1/2 hours
BBQ Pulled Lamb Shoulder Sandwiches
Get ready to fall in love with the rich flavors of slow-cooked lamb, perfectly pulled apart and slathered in a tangy BBQ sauce. This recipe is perfect for a casual gathering or a satisfying weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs lamb shoulder
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 1/4 cup beer (optional)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 hamburger buns
– Coleslaw or pickled red onions, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the mixture all over the lamb shoulder, making sure to coat evenly.
4. Place the lamb in a large Dutch oven or slow cooker. If using beer, pour it into the pot.
5. Cook for 6-8 hours or until the lamb is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
6. Using two forks, pull the lamb apart into bite-sized pieces.
7. In a small bowl, mix together BBQ sauce and any accumulated juices from the lamb.
8. Toss the pulled lamb in the BBQ sauce until coated.
9. Split hamburger buns in half and fill with the pulled lamb.
10. Serve immediately, topped with coleslaw or pickled red onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours
Lamb Shoulder Chops with Garlic and Thyme
A classic combination of flavors, this recipe brings out the best in lamb shoulder chops by pairing them with aromatic garlic and thyme. The result is a tender and juicy dish that’s perfect for a special occasion or a cozy dinner at home.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 lamb shoulder chops
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs of fresh thyme, chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together garlic and thyme.
3. Season lamb shoulder chops with salt and pepper.
4. Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Sear lamb shoulder chops for 2-3 minutes on each side.
6. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and cook for 15-20 minutes or until the lamb reaches your desired level of doneness.
7. Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lamb Shoulder Curry with Coconut Milk
Rich and flavorful, this curry showcases the tender fall-apart texture of lamb shoulder, perfectly balanced by the creamy richness of coconut milk. A perfect meal for a cozy evening in.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb lamb shoulder, bone-in
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, heat oil over medium-high. Brown lamb shoulder on all sides, about 5 minutes.
3. Add onions, garlic, ginger, cumin, curry powder, and turmeric. Cook until onions are translucent.
4. Add coconut milk, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
5. Cover pot and transfer to preheated oven. Braise for 2-3 hours or until lamb is tender.
6. Garnish with cilantro, if desired. Serve hot over rice or with naan bread.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Lamb Shoulder Pot Roast with Red Wine Gravy
This hearty pot roast recipe showcases the rich flavor of lamb shoulder, slow-cooked to tender perfection and served with a bold red wine gravy. Perfect for a special occasion or cozy weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 lb lamb shoulder
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup red wine (such as Cabernet Sauvignon)
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 2 teaspoons dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Season lamb shoulder with salt, pepper, and thyme.
3. In a large Dutch oven or pot roast pan, heat oil over medium-high. Brown the lamb on all sides, then set aside.
4. Add onion and garlic to the pot; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
5. Add red wine, beef broth, and tomato paste to the pot. Stir to combine.
6. Return lamb to the pot, cover with a lid, and transfer to the preheated oven.
7. Roast for 2-3 hours or until lamb is tender and falls apart easily.
8. Remove from oven; let rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Lamb Shoulder Kebabs with Yogurt Marinade
Lamb Shoulder Kebabs with Yogurt Marinade: A flavorful and tender recipe that combines the richness of lamb with the cooling tang of yogurt, perfect for a warm evening meal or as an appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound lamb shoulder, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1/2 cup plain yogurt
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 10-12 bamboo skewers
– Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the lamb cubes to the marinade and mix well to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
3. Preheat grill or broiler to medium-high heat. Thread marinated lamb onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Grill or broil kebabs for 8-10 minutes per side, or until cooked through and slightly charred.
5. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro, if desired. Serve hot with your favorite sides.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Lamb Shoulder Tacos with Avocado Crema
Tender lamb shoulder, rich spices, and creamy avocado crema come together to create a mouthwatering taco experience. Perfect for a special occasion or a casual gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound lamb shoulder, boneless
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Avocado Crema (recipe below)
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, pickled onions, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the mixture all over the lamb shoulder, making sure to coat evenly.
4. Place the lamb on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and cook for 3-4 hours, or until tender.
5. Shred the lamb with two forks and warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
Avocado Crema:
– 1 ripe avocado, mashed
– 1 lime, juiced
– Salt, to taste
Mix all ingredients together until smooth. Serve over lamb shoulder tacos.
Cooking Time: 3-4 hours (lamb), 5 minutes (tortillas)
Summary
Elevate your special occasions with 18 mouthwatering lamb shoulder recipes! From slow-roasted garlic and herb to Moroccan-spiced braised, these succulent dishes are sure to impress. Discover flavors inspired by Greece, India, Middle East, and more. Try slow-cooked lamb shoulder tagine with apricots and almonds, or smoky lamb shoulder with honey mustard glaze. Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty stew or elegant kebabs, these recipes offer something for everyone. Get ready to impress your guests with these delectable lamb shoulder dishes!
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