Jamie Oliver’s 5 Ingredients Lamb Shoulder recipe is a simple yet impressive dish that lets the rich, natural flavors of the lamb shine. This recipe is perfect for those who love a hearty meal with minimal prep, using just five key ingredients. The slow-roasted lamb becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender, making it a wonderful centerpiece for a family dinner or a special occasion.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

Minimal Ingredients: Only 5 ingredients are needed, making it quick and easy to prepare.
Tender and Juicy Lamb: Slow cooking results in lamb that is incredibly tender and falls off the bone.

Full of Flavor: With the use of garlic, rosemary, and balsamic vinegar, the lamb is infused with deep, rich flavors.
Impressive yet Simple: Perfect for a special dinner with minimal effort.
Great for Leftovers: Leftovers can be used in sandwiches or salads, making this recipe versatile.

Jamie Oliver’s 5 Ingredients Lamb Shoulder

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What is Jamie Oliver’s 5 Ingredients Lamb Shoulder Recipe?

Jamie Oliver’s 5 Ingredients Lamb Shoulder is a slow-roasted dish made with lamb shoulder, garlic, rosemary, olive oil, and balsamic vinegar. The lamb is roasted for several hours until it becomes tender and infused with the flavors of garlic and herbs. It’s a simple yet flavorful dish that pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes.

Jamie Oliver 5 Ingredients Lamb Shoulder Ingredients

Lamb Shoulder (bone-in): 1.5kg (about 3.3 lbs)

Garlic Bulbs: 2, halved crosswise
Fresh Rosemary: 4-5 sprigs
Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons

Balsamic Vinegar: 2 tablespoons

Step-by-Step Instructions to Prepare Jamie Oliver 5 Ingredients Lamb Shoulder

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Set the Oven Temperature: Preheat your oven to 160°C (320°F).

Step 2: Prepare the Lamb

Season the Lamb: Rub the lamb shoulder with olive oil and season generously with salt and pepper.

Add Garlic and Rosemary: In a roasting tray, place the halved garlic bulbs and rosemary sprigs, then lay the seasoned lamb shoulder on top.

Step 3: Slow Roast the Lamb

Cover and Roast: Cover the roasting tray tightly with foil to trap moisture. Place it in the preheated oven and roast for 4 hours.
Baste Occasionally: Baste the lamb every hour with the juices in the tray to keep it moist and flavorful.

Step 4: Add Balsamic Vinegar

Uncover and Drizzle: After 4 hours, remove the foil and drizzle the balsamic vinegar over the lamb.
Increase Oven Temperature: Raise the oven temperature to 180°C (350°F) and roast uncovered for an additional 30 minutes to allow the lamb to caramelize.

Step 5: Rest the Lamb

Let It Rest: Remove the lamb from the oven and let it rest for 15-20 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring the lamb is moist and flavorful.

What to Serve with Jamie Oliver 5 Ingredients Lamb Shoulder

Roasted Potatoes: Classic roasted potatoes are the perfect side for this tender lamb.
Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes pair beautifully with the rich lamb.
Green Vegetables: Serve with steamed or roasted green beans, asparagus, or peas for a fresh balance.

Gravy: You can use the pan juices to make a simple lamb gravy for extra flavor.

Expert Tips for Mastering Jamie Oliver 5 Ingredients Lamb Shoulder

Use Bone-In Lamb Shoulder: The bone adds flavor and helps keep the meat tender during the long roasting process.
Slow and Low: Don’t rush the cooking time—slow cooking at a low temperature is key to achieving tender lamb that falls off the bone.

Caramelize the Lamb: After slow roasting, increasing the oven temperature and removing the foil helps create a golden, crispy finish on the lamb.
Rest the Lamb: Letting the lamb rest before carving is crucial to keep the meat juicy and tender.

Variations of Jamie Oliver 5 Ingredients Lamb Shoulder

Lamb with Potatoes: Add potatoes to the roasting tray during the last hour of cooking for a complete one-pan meal.

Spicy Lamb Shoulder: Add a rub of cumin and smoked paprika to the lamb for a spiced twist.
Lamb with Mint: Serve the lamb with a side of mint sauce for a traditional British touch.
Garlic and Herb Variation: Add thyme and rosemary for an extra herbal depth of flavor.

How to Store Leftovers from Jamie Oliver 5 Ingredients Lamb Shoulder

Refrigeration: Store leftover lamb shoulder in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Freeze the lamb in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

How to Reheat Jamie Oliver 5 Ingredients Lamb Shoulder Leftovers

Oven Reheating: Reheat the lamb in the oven at 160°C (320°F) for 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through.

Microwave Reheating: For a faster option, reheat individual portions in the microwave on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.

FAQs

Can I use boneless lamb shoulder for this recipe?

Yes, you can use boneless lamb shoulder, but bone-in lamb shoulder is recommended for maximum flavor and tenderness. If using boneless, reduce the cooking time slightly and check for doneness after 3.5 hours.

How do I keep the lamb shoulder from drying out during roasting?

To keep the lamb shoulder moist, cover it with foil during the first 4 hours of roasting. This traps the steam and helps the meat become tender. Basting the lamb with its own juices every hour also keeps it moist and flavorful.

Can I make this lamb shoulder recipe in advance?

Yes, you can make the lamb shoulder in advance. After cooking, allow it to cool and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat in the oven at 160°C (320°F) for about 20-25 minutes before serving.

What can I use instead of balsamic vinegar?

If you don’t have balsamic vinegar, you can substitute it with red wine vinegar or a mixture of apple cider vinegar and honey for a similar sweet and tangy flavor.

Final Words

Jamie Oliver’s 5 Ingredients Lamb Shoulder is the perfect example of how a few simple ingredients can create a rich, flavorful, and impressive meal. With minimal effort, you’ll have a tender, succulent lamb shoulder that’s ideal for family dinners or special occasions. Serve it with your favorite sides, and enjoy the comforting flavors of slow-cooked lamb.

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