How to Grill the Perfect Traeger Leg of Lamb with Rosemary and Garlic

The blog post on Traeger Grills' website presents a recipe for a roasted leg of lamb, combining rosemary, garlic, and wood-fired flavor. This recipe serves 8 people and requires about 2 hours for preparation and cooking. The main ingredients include a bone-in leg of lamb, olive oil, garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, rosemary, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper. The cooking process involves seasoning the lamb, making small cuts to insert garlic and rosemary, and grilling at specific temperatures to achieve a medium-rare finish. The blog also highlights Traeger products such as wood pellets and grills, and offers additional resources and articles on grilling techniques.

Roasted Leg of Lamb with Rosemary and Wood-Fired Flavor

Roasting a leg of lamb can be a culinary triumph, especially when infused with the aromatic essence of rosemary and the distinctive touch of wood-fired flavor. This guide will take you through a step-by-step process to create a mouthwatering roasted leg of lamb that will be the centerpiece of your next gathering.

Ingredients You'll Need:

• 7-8 lb bone-in leg of lamb
• 2 teaspoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon crushed garlic
• 4 garlic cloves, sliced lengthwise
• Zest and juice of 2 lemons
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 4 sprigs of fresh rosemary, cut into 1-inch pieces
• Cherry BBQ wood pellets (for added flavor)

Preparation Steps:

1. Preheat Your Grill: Start by setting your Traeger grill to 450°F. Allow it to preheat with the lid closed for about 15 minutes. This ensures the grill reaches the optimal temperature for searing the lamb.

2. Season the Lamb: In a small bowl, mix the olive oil and crushed garlic. Rub this mixture thoroughly over the leg of lamb, ensuring an even coat. Next, use a paring knife to make approximately 24 small cuts all over the lamb, about ¾ inch deep. Insert the sliced garlic and rosemary sprigs into these slits. This technique not only enhances the flavor but also allows the seasoning to penetrate the meat deeply.

3. Add Lemon Zest and Juice: Sprinkle the zest of two lemons over the lamb and squeeze the lemon juice evenly. This citrus touch brightens the flavor and complements the richness of the lamb. Season generously with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.

4. Grilling Process: Insert a meat probe into the thickest part of the lamb, avoiding the bone. Place the lamb directly on the grill grates and close the lid. Grill at 450°F for 30 minutes to achieve a beautiful sear on the exterior.

5. Adjust the Temperature: After 30 minutes, reduce the grill temperature to 350°F. Continue grilling until the internal temperature of the lamb reaches 130°F for a perfect medium-rare finish. This should take an additional 60-90 minutes. Adjust the cooking time based on your preferred level of doneness.

6. Rest and Serve: Once the lamb reaches the desired internal temperature, remove it from the grill and let it rest for 15 minutes before carving. Resting allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring a moist and flavorful result.

Serving Suggestions:

Pair this succulent roasted leg of lamb with roasted vegetables, a fresh green salad, or garlic mashed potatoes for a complete meal. The combination of rosemary, garlic, lemon, and the unique wood-fired taste creates a dish that is both impressive and deeply satisfying.

Tips for the Best Results:

• Choose Quality Meat: The quality of the lamb significantly impacts the final dish. Opt for a fresh, high-quality bone-in leg of lamb for the best results.
• Wood Pellets: Using cherry BBQ wood pellets enhances the flavor with a subtle sweetness that complements the lamb beautifully.
• Monitoring Temperature: Use a reliable meat probe to monitor the internal temperature accurately. Overcooking can lead to dry meat, so aim for a medium-rare finish.

With these steps and tips, you can master the art of roasting a leg of lamb, creating a memorable dining experience that showcases your culinary skills. Enjoy the process and the delicious rewards!