Coffee-Basted Lamb
A rich and flavorful lamb dish glazed with coffee and red currant jelly, perfect for special occasions or hearty family dinners with a sophisticated twist.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Rub salt and pepper over the surface of the lamb and bake in a moderate 350° oven (180° C) for 1 hour.
- Mix the coffee, cream, and sugar and pour over the lamb.
- Continue cooking for the remainder of the cooking time, calculated at 30 minutes per pound, basting frequently.
- Add a little water if the liquid evaporates too much during cooking.
- When cooked, remove the lamb; skim off fat from the pan, putting aside 2 tablespoons of fat in the saucepan.
- Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute.
- Add enough water to the roasting pan to make 2 cups of liquid; stir well, lifting off any baked-on juices.
- Heat the fat in the saucepan, stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute.
- Add the liquid from the roasting pan and stir until the sauce thickens and boils.
- Add the currant jelly and stir until jelly is completely absorbed.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider marinating the lamb in coffee overnight. You can substitute the cream with half-and-half for a lighter sauce or use a non-dairy milk alternative if preferred. For a different sweetness, try using honey instead of sugar. Remember to baste the lamb frequently to keep it moist, especially if you are using a leaner cut.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the coffee-basted lamb with roasted vegetables and mashed potatoes for a comforting meal. A fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can balance the richness of the dish. For a unique dessert pairing, consider serving with a slice of Marshmallow Date Loaf to finish the meal on a sweet note.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover coffee-basted lamb can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the lamb in a baking dish with a splash of broth or water to prevent drying out, cover with foil, and warm in a 325°F (160°C) oven until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Coffee-Basted Lamb contains roughly 193 calories, with 11g protein, 7g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1799mg per serving (78% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different cut of lamb for this recipe?
Yes, you can use other cuts like lamb shoulder or rack of lamb. Adjust cooking times according to the cut and weight. Shoulder may require longer cooking to become tender, while rack of lamb cooks faster and should be watched closely to avoid overcooking.
What can I serve with coffee-basted lamb?
This dish pairs excellently with roasted vegetables, like carrots and potatoes, or a creamy polenta. A side of sautéed greens can add freshness. For a heartier option, consider serving with Southern Sausage Balls for a unique twist on your meal.
Is there a way to make the sauce thicker?
If you want a thicker sauce, allow it to simmer longer until it reduces to your desired consistency. Alternatively, you can mix a bit of cornstarch with cold water and add it to the sauce, stirring until it thickens. Just remember to let it cook for a few minutes to eliminate any raw starch taste.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).