Summer is all about outdoor barbecues and what better way to impress your guests than with a perfectly cooked lamb shoulder? This underrated cut of meat is not only delicious but also easy to prepare. In this blog post, we will be sharing our favorite lamb shoulder BBQ recipe for 2023 that is guaranteed to leave your guests wanting more.
Choosing the Right Cut of Meat
Before we dive into the recipe, it's important to understand what makes a good lamb shoulder. Look for a shoulder that is well marbled with fat and has a good layer of skin. This will ensure that the meat stays moist and tender throughout the cooking process. Make sure to ask your butcher for a bone-in shoulder as it will add extra flavor to the dish.
Preparing the Meat
Start by scoring the skin of the lamb shoulder in a criss-cross pattern. This will help the fat to render out and the skin to crisp up. Rub the shoulder with a mixture of olive oil, salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs such as rosemary or thyme. Let the meat sit at room temperature for at least an hour before cooking.
Setting Up the BBQ
For this recipe, we recommend using a charcoal grill as it will give the meat a smoky flavor that is hard to replicate with gas. Set up your grill for indirect cooking by placing the coals on one side of the grill and the meat on the other. This will ensure that the lamb cooks evenly and doesn't burn.
Cooking the Lamb
Place the lamb shoulder on the grill, skin side up, and close the lid. Cook for 30 minutes before flipping the meat over and cooking for another 30 minutes. At this point, check the internal temperature of the lamb with a meat thermometer. You're looking for a temperature of 145°F for medium-rare or 160°F for medium.
Resting the Meat
Once the lamb shoulder has reached the desired temperature, remove it from the grill and let it rest for at least 15 minutes. This will allow the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more tender and flavorful dish.
Serving the Lamb
Carve the lamb shoulder into thin slices and serve with your favorite sides such as roasted vegetables or a fresh salad. You can also serve it with a mint sauce or a chimichurri sauce for an extra burst of flavor.
Tips for Success
- Don't be afraid to experiment with different herbs and spices to find a flavor profile that you love. - Make sure to let the meat sit at room temperature before cooking to ensure even cooking. - Use a meat thermometer to ensure that the lamb is cooked to your liking. - Let the meat rest before slicing to ensure maximum juiciness.
Conclusion
There you have it, our favorite lamb shoulder BBQ recipe for 2023. This dish is perfect for any summer gathering and is sure to impress your guests. With the right cut of meat, a few simple ingredients, and a little bit of patience, you can create a meal that is both delicious and memorable.