What To Know
- Select a lamb shoulder (also known as a bone-in shoulder roast) with a good amount of marbling.
- For a crispier exterior, sear the lamb shoulder in a skillet before placing it in the crock pot.
- You can also cook lamb shoulder in a Dutch oven in the oven at 325°F (163°C) for 3-4 hours, or until tender.
Indulge in the delectable flavors of fall-off-the-bone lamb shoulder, effortlessly prepared in your crock pot. With just a few simple steps and a touch of patience, you can savor this succulent dish that will tantalize your taste buds and warm your soul.
Choosing the Perfect Lamb Shoulder
Select a lamb shoulder (also known as a bone-in shoulder roast) with a good amount of marbling. This will ensure a tender and flavorful result. Aim for a weight of around 4-5 pounds, which will comfortably fit in a 6-quart crock pot.
Preparing the Lamb Shoulder
Trim any excess fat from the lamb shoulder and season generously with salt and pepper. You can also add your favorite herbs and spices, such as rosemary, thyme, or garlic powder.
Creating a Flavorful Base
In the bottom of the crock pot, create a bed of aromatic vegetables. This will add depth and sweetness to the dish. Use a combination of chopped onions, carrots, and celery. You can also add a few cloves of garlic for extra flavor.
Slow-Cooking Perfection
Place the seasoned lamb shoulder on top of the vegetable bed. Pour in enough liquid to cover the meat by about halfway. You can use a combination of water, broth, or wine. Set the crock pot to low heat and cook for 8-10 hours, or until the meat is fork-tender.
Enhancing the Flavor
During the last hour of cooking, add a few tablespoons of your favorite barbecue sauce or honey to the crock pot. This will give the lamb a delicious glaze and enhance its sweetness.
Serving Suggestions
Remove the lamb shoulder from the crock pot and let it rest for 15-20 minutes before slicing and serving. Pair it with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a refreshing green salad.
Tips for Success
- For a crispier exterior, sear the lamb shoulder in a skillet before placing it in the crock pot.
- Add a few bay leaves to the crock pot for extra aroma.
- If the liquid evaporates too much during cooking, add more as needed.
- You can also cook lamb shoulder in a Dutch oven in the oven at 325°F (163°C) for 3-4 hours, or until tender.
Variations
- Mediterranean Lamb Shoulder: Add chopped olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and feta cheese to the crock pot.
- Asian-Inspired Lamb Shoulder: Use a marinade of soy sauce, honey, and ginger before cooking.
- Spicy Lamb Shoulder: Rub the lamb with a mixture of chili powder, cumin, and cayenne pepper.
Questions We Hear a Lot
Q: Can I use frozen lamb shoulder?
A: Yes, you can use frozen lamb shoulder. Just be sure to thaw it completely before cooking.
Q: How long can I store cooked lamb shoulder?
A: Refrigerate cooked lamb shoulder for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months.
Q: Can I use a bone-in lamb shoulder instead of a boneless one?
A: Yes, you can use a bone-in lamb shoulder. Just be sure to add extra cooking time.
