Description: Coleraine Lamb is a traditional Irish dish that features succulent roast lamb accompanied by a flavorful stuffing made from breadcrumbs, fresh parsley, and zesty lemon zest. The combination of tender meat and the aromatic stuffing creates a dish that’s both comforting and bursting with flavor.

Preparation time: 20 minutes

Cooking Time: Approximately 2 hours

Serving size: 4 servings

Ingredients:

For the Roast Lamb:

• 1 leg of lamb (approximately 4-5 pounds)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Stuffing:

• 1 cup fresh breadcrumbs
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Lamb:

   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
   • Place the leg of lamb in a roasting pan. Drizzle it with olive oil, and season generously with salt and black pepper. Rub the seasonings into the lamb.

2. Prepare the Stuffing:

   • In a mixing bowl, combine the fresh breadcrumbs, lemon zest, and finely chopped fresh parsley. The lemon zest and parsley will infuse the stuffing with a fresh, zesty flavor.

3. Stuff the Lamb:

   • Using a knife, make small incisions all over the lamb. These incisions will serve as pockets for the stuffing.
   • Take small portions of the stuffing mixture and press it into each incision. Distribute the stuffing evenly throughout the lamb.

4. Roast the Lamb:

   • Place the stuffed lamb in the preheated oven. Roast for about 20 minutes per pound for medium-rare or 25 minutes per pound for medium, adjusting the time as per your desired doneness.
   • Baste the lamb with its juices every 20-30 minutes to keep it moist and flavorful.

5. Check Doneness:

   • To check if the lamb is cooked to your liking, insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part. For medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C), while medium will be around 160°F (71°C).

6. Rest and Serve:

   • Once the lamb reaches your preferred level of doneness, remove it from the oven. Cover it with foil and let it rest for about 15-20 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a tender and juicy roast.

7. Carve and Enjoy:

   • Carve the lamb into slices, serving it with the flavorful stuffing. This dish pairs well with side dishes like roasted vegetables, mint sauce, or a light gravy.

Coleraine Lamb is a delicious and impressive dish that embodies the flavors of traditional Irish cuisine. The combination of succulent roast lamb and the vibrant stuffing creates a meal that’s perfect for special occasions or a hearty family dinner. Enjoy the taste of Ireland’s culinary heritage!