Moroccan Butterflied Leg of Lamb

May 17, 2023May 17, 20230 11

Juicy and flavorful Moroccan Butterflied Leg of Lamb recipe

by The Chefin Main

Prep

15 min

Cook

25 min

Ready In

2 hours (including marinating time)

Level

Easy

Rating

Ingredients

	2 teaspoons whole coriander seeds
	2 teaspoons whole black peppercorns
	1/2 teaspoon whole cloves
	3 tablespoons garlic , minced
	2 large oranges , grated zest only
	1 teaspoon kosher salt
	1/4 cup olive oil
	3 -4 lbs leg of lamb , boneless and butterflied

Nutrision Information

Servings Per Recipe

6-8

Calories

520

Sugar

Fat

33g

Moroccan cuisine is known for its bold flavors and use of spices, and this butterflied leg of lamb dish is no exception. The fragrant spice rub made with coriander, black pepper, and cloves is balanced with the bright freshness of orange zest and the richness of olive oil. Butterflied lamb is a leaner cut of meat that cooks quickly and evenly, making it perfect for grilling. This recipe is perfect for a summer dinner party or weekend meal with friends and family.

Instructions

1.	Toast the coriander seeds, black peppercorns and cloves in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-4 minutes, or until fragrant.
2.	Crush the toasted spices with a mortar and pestle or spice grinder and mix with the garlic, orange zest, salt, and olive oil to make a paste.
3.	Rub the paste all over the lamb and marinate in the fridge for at least 2 hours, up to overnight.
4.	Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Grill the lamb for 10-12 minutes on each side for medium-rare, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F. Let the lamb rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving.

PROS

This Moroccan-inspired dish is bursting with flavor thanks to the fragrant spice rub.

The butterflied leg of lamb cooks quickly on the grill, making it perfect for a summer meal.

Lamb is a good source of protein, B vitamins, and iron.

CONS

Lamb can be a relatively high-fat meat, so it should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Butterflied lamb can be difficult to find or prepare, so you may need to ask your butcher for assistance or research how to butterfly the meat yourself.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Lamb is a good source of protein and essential B vitamins, including vitamin B12 which is important for nerve and blood cell health.
Lamb is also a good source of heme iron which is more easily absorbed by the body than non-heme iron found in plant-based foods.
The spices used in this recipe, including coriander and black pepper, have been linked to anti-inflammatory properties and digestive health benefits.