James Martin Roast Leg Of Lamb

Dive into the world of culinary delight with James Martin's Roast Leg of Lamb in Hay with Lavender and Mint Jelly, a recipe that marries traditional cooking methods with a touch of modern flair. This dish is a testament to the rich heritage of British cuisine, offering a unique way to prepare lamb that is sure to impress at any dinner table.

James Martin's Roast Leg of Lamb in Hay with Lavender and Mint Jelly

Cultural or Historical Context

This recipe showcases a traditional British method of cooking lamb, enhanced with the aromatic presence of lavender. Lavender, not just admired for its beauty and fragrance in gardens, also holds a place in the kitchen, particularly in Provencal cuisine. Here, it lends a subtle, floral note to the lamb, while the hay's use is a nod to rustic cooking techniques, infusing the meat with a smoky, earthy aroma.

Ingredients List

• 1 leg of lamb
• A small bunch of lavender
• Hay sufficient to cover the roasting tray
• 25ml of vegetable oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Mint Jelly:

• A small bunch of mint
• 50g caster sugar
• 100ml white wine vinegar
• 4 gelatine leaves

Preparation Instructions

1. Begin by preheating your oven to 180°C.
2. Prepare your roasting tin with a layer of hay and sprinkle over some lavender.
3. Place the lamb atop this aromatic bed, drizzle with vegetable oil, and season with salt and pepper.
4. Roast in the preheated oven for about 2 hours, allowing the flavors to meld.
5. For the mint jelly, dissolve sugar and vinegar in a pan, then add softened gelatine leaves and mint, stirring until smooth before setting in a tray to chill.

Storage and Reheating

This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently in the oven, covered, to prevent drying out.

Nutritional Information

While specific values depend on serving sizes, lamb is a good source of high-quality protein, essential vitamins and minerals, including iron, zinc, and Vitamin B12.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I use dry lavender if fresh is not available? Yes, you can use a smaller quantity of dry lavender as it's more concentrated.
• Is there an alternative to using hay in the recipe? If hay is not accessible, you can roast the lamb on a bed of herbs and vegetables to create a flavorful trivet.

The original recipe by James Martin not only provides a method to create a flavorful and aromatic dish but also invites home cooks to explore the use of unconventional ingredients like hay and lavender in their cooking​​​​.

For a detailed guide and more on James Martin's recipes, visit his official website at www.jamesmartinchef.co.uk.