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Air Fryer Lamb Roast Recipe: Garlic & Herb Leg of Lamb

Cooking a leg of lamb can often seem daunting, reserved for special occasions and lengthy preparations. However, with the advent of air fryers, you can now achieve deliciously tender and flavourful lamb in a fraction of the time, without compromising on taste. This Air Fryer Garlic & Herb Leg of Lamb recipe promises succulent results that will impress your family and friends, while also being easy enough for a weekday dinner.

Ingredients

To prepare this delightful dish, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1 leg of lamb (approximately 1.5 kg)
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh thyme, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Zest of 1 lemon
• Juice of 1 lemon

Preparation

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a small bowl, combine the minced garlic, chopped rosemary, chopped thyme, olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to form a paste.

2. Marinate the Lamb: Place the leg of lamb in a large dish or a resealable plastic bag. Rub the garlic and herb marinade all over the lamb, ensuring that you massage it into the meat for maximum flavour. If time allows, cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or ideally overnight, to let the flavours develop further.

3. Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 200°C (390°F). This step is crucial for achieving a crispy exterior.

Cooking Method

1. Place the Lamb in the Air Fryer: Once preheated, carefully place the marinated leg of lamb in the air fryer basket. Ensure that it is not touching the sides for even cooking.

2. Air Fry the Lamb: Cook the lamb at 200°C (390°F) for approximately 25 minutes per kilogram. For a 1.5 kg leg of lamb, that will typically mean around 40-45 minutes. Halfway through the cooking time, flip the leg of lamb to ensure even browning.

3. Check for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. For medium-rare, the temperature should read 57°C (135°F), while medium should be around 63°C (145°F). Remember, the lamb will continue to cook slightly after it’s removed from the air fryer due to residual heat.

4. Rest the Meat: Once the lamb has reached your desired level of doneness, remove it from the air fryer and cover it loosely with aluminium foil. Allow it to rest for about 10-15 minutes before carving. This resting period helps the juices redistribute, ensuring a moist and tender roast.

Serving Suggestions

Slice the leg of lamb against the grain and serve it with your choice of sides. This dish pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables, buttery mashed potatoes, or a crisp salad. Don’t forget some mint sauce or a red wine reduction on the side for that traditional touch!

Tips for Best Results

• Patience Pays Off: Marinating the lamb overnight will elevate the flavour significantly.
• Avoid Overcrowding: If you need to cook for a crowd, consider cooking in batches. An overcrowded air fryer can lead to uneven cooking.
• Experiment with Herbs: While garlic, rosemary, and thyme create a classic flavour, feel free to experiment with herbs like oregano or parsley if you fancy something different.

Conclusion

Cooking lamb in an air fryer not only simplifies the process but also yields results that are juicy and packed with flavour. This Air Fryer Garlic & Herb Leg of Lamb recipe is perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs alike. So why not give it a go for your next Sunday roast or special occasion? The combination of garlic, fresh herbs, and perfectly cooked lamb is bound to be a hit at your dinner table!