Are you enjoying a family Christmas at home? Here’s a delicious roast lamb recipe perfect for any special occasion, including a summer Christmas celebration.

Roast Leg of Lamb

Ingredients

• 1 leg of lamb (about 2.5-3 kg)
• 4 cloves of garlic (sliced)
• 2 sprigs of rosemary
• 2 sprigs of thyme
• 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1 cup dry white wine or chicken broth
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Optional: root vegetables (potatoes, carrots, onions) for roasting

Instructions

1. Preparation
   • Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
   • Pat the lamb dry with paper towels.
2. Seasoning
   • Using a sharp knife, make small slits all over the lamb. Insert garlic slices and small sprigs of rosemary and thyme into the slits.
   • In a small bowl, combine lemon zest, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Rub this mixture all over the lamb.
3. Roasting
   • Place the lamb in a roasting pan. If you’re adding root vegetables, scatter them around the lamb in the pan.
   • Pour the white wine or chicken broth into the pan to keep the meat moist during cooking.
   • Roast the lamb in the preheated oven for about 1.5 to 2 hours (20 minutes per 500g for medium-rare), or until the internal temperature reaches your desired doneness:
     • Rare: 50°C (122°F)
     • Medium-Rare: 55°C (131°F)
     • Medium: 60°C (140°F)
     • Well-Done: 70°C (158°F)
4. Resting
   • Remove the lamb from the oven and cover it loosely with aluminum foil. Let it rest for at least 15-20 minutes before carving. This helps the juices redistribute, ensuring a tender and juicy roast.
5. Serving
   • Carve the lamb into slices and serve with the roasted vegetables and pan juices. Garnish with fresh rosemary if desired.

Enjoy your delicious roast lamb! It’s perfect for a festive summer Christmas meal.

Roast lamb pairs wonderfully with a variety of wines, and Le Pommier Wine Estate offers some excellent options that would complement your dish beautifully. Here are a few recommendations:

1. Le Pommier Sauvignon Blanc: This wine has a crisp acidity and fresh citrus notes that can cut through the richness of the lamb, balancing the flavors perfectly.
2. Le Pommier Maraai Rosé: With its strawberry and fresh herb aromas, this rosé adds a refreshing touch to the meal, pairing well with the savory flavors of the roast lamb.
3. Le Pommier MAC Blend (Cabernet Franc and Malbec): This full-bodied red wine has dark fruit flavors and a hint of earthiness, which complements the robust taste of the lamb.
4. Le Pommier Jonathan’s Malbec: A rich and fruity wine with a good balance of tannins, it pairs excellently with the hearty flavors of roast lamb.
5. Le Pommier Summercourt Chardonnay: If you prefer white wine, this slightly oaked chardonnay with tropical fruit notes can also be a delightful pairing with lamb, especially if you have a creamy sauce.

These wines from Le Pommier Wine Estate will enhance your roast lamb experience, making your meal even more enjoyable. Cheers to a delicious pairing! 🍷🍖