Spring Lamb in Herbs

Ingredients for Spring Lamb in Herbs

• 2 tablespoons coriander seeds

• 2 tablespoons fennel seeds

• 1 bunch coriander

• 1 bunch dill

• 3 small bunches tarragon

• 4 spring onions or spring onions, thinly sliced

• 2 small preserved lemons, skin and flesh chopped

• 4 garlic cloves, coarsely chopped

• 60ml extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for serving

• 2 teaspoons kosher salt, plus more

• 1 (6–7-lb.) bone-in leg of lamb

• 1.8kg baby Yukon Gold potatoes

• 2 lemons, cut into wedges

• Flaky sea salt

How to make Spring Lamb in Herbs

Preheat oven to 163°C. Toast coriander and fennel seeds in a dry small skillet over medium-low heat, tossing occasionally, until very fragrant, about 2 minutes. Let cool.

Coarsely chop coriander leaves and tender stems (you’ll get about 2 cups) and transfer to a large bowl. Coarsely chop dill leaves and tender stems (you’ll get about 2 cups) and add to bowl with coriander. Pick leaves from tarragon bunches (do not chop; you’ll get about 160g ) and add to bowl; discard stems. Add spring onions and toss to combine. Transfer 475ml herb mixture to a small bowl, cover with a damp kitchen towel, and chill until ready to use. Transfer remaining herb mixture to a food processor. Add coriander and fennel seeds, preserved lemons, garlic, 60ml oil, and 2 teaspoons kosher salt. Purée until a paste forms.

Roll out a piece of foil that’s more than double the length of a rimmed baking sheet. Centre foil on baking sheet, then place lamb on foil. Rub lamb all over with herb paste. Bring up foil around lamb and wrap tightly to seal. Roast until lamb is super tender and is falling off the bone, 4–4 1/2 hours. (It’s important that you don’t open the foil packet once sealed. To check the meat, slide a skewer or small knife through the top of the foil; the meat should yield and shred easily.)

Meanwhile, place potatoes in a large pot. Pour in water to cover; season with salt. Cover pot and bring water to a boil. Cook until potatoes are tender, about 30 minutes. Drain, then transfer to a medium bowl.

Unwrap lamb (juices will run everywhere, so be careful to make sure they stay on the baking sheet) and let cool 20 minutes. Transfer lamb to a cutting board. Pull meat off bone and shred into pieces. Return meat to baking sheet and toss in herby juices.

Transfer lamb to a platter. Pour juices over lamb and potatoes. Top lamb with reserved herb mixture. Drizzle lamb and potatoes with oil and lemon juice, then sprinkle with sea salt.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.