I have always been a fan of lamb, but I must admit that I was a bit hesitant when I first heard about cooking it in the microwave. I mean, isn’t the microwave reserved for reheating leftovers and popping popcorn? However, after some research and experimentation, I discovered that cooking lamb in the microwave can actually result in a delicious and tender dish. In this quick and easy guide, I will walk you through the steps to cook lamb in the microwave, so you can enjoy this flavorful meat in no time.
Gather Your Ingredients
The first step in any cooking endeavor is gathering all the necessary ingredients. For this recipe, you will need:
– Lamb chops or a lamb roast
You can use either lamb chops or a lamb roast for this recipe. The choice is really up to your personal preference. Lamb chops are a great option if you prefer individual servings, while a lamb roast is perfect for feeding a larger group.
– Fresh herbs and spices
To enhance the flavor of the lamb, you will need some fresh herbs and spices. Rosemary, thyme, garlic, salt, and pepper are classic choices that pair well with lamb.
– Olive oil
A drizzle of olive oil will help prevent the lamb from drying out during the cooking process.
– Microwave-safe dish
Make sure you have a microwave-safe dish that is large enough to accommodate the lamb. It should have a lid or cover to trap the moisture inside and keep the meat tender.
Prepare the Lamb
Once you have all your ingredients ready, it’s time to prepare the lamb for cooking.
– Season the lamb
Start by seasoning the lamb with your chosen herbs and spices. Rub them all over the lamb, making sure to coat it evenly. Don’t be afraid to be generous with the seasonings – lamb can handle bold flavors.
– Drizzle with olive oil
After seasoning the lamb, drizzle a small amount of olive oil over it. This will help keep the meat moist as it cooks.
– Let it marinate (optional)
For an extra burst of flavor, you can let the seasoned lamb marinate for a few hours in the refrigerator. This step is optional but can significantly enhance the taste.
Cooking the Lamb
Now that your lamb is all prepped and ready, it’s time to cook it in the microwave.
– Arrange the lamb in the microwave-safe dish
Place the lamb in the microwave-safe dish, making sure not to overcrowd it. If you are cooking lamb chops, arrange them in a single layer. For a lamb roast, position it in the center of the dish.
– Cover the dish
Cover the dish with a lid or microwave-safe plastic wrap. This will help trap the steam and moisture inside, resulting in a tender piece of lamb.
– Set the cooking time
The cooking time will vary depending on the size and thickness of the lamb. As a general guideline, cook lamb chops for about 7-10 minutes per pound and a lamb roast for 15-20 minutes per pound. However, it’s best to check the internal temperature of the lamb using a meat thermometer for accurate results.
– Let it rest
Once the lamb reaches the desired internal temperature, remove it from the microwave and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This will allow the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring a tender and juicy bite.
Serving Suggestions
Now that your beautifully cooked lamb is ready, it’s time to think about how to serve it. Here are a few serving suggestions to get you started:
– Pair with roasted vegetables
Roasted vegetables make a fantastic side dish for lamb. Consider pairing it with roasted potatoes, carrots, or Brussels sprouts for a well-rounded meal.
– Serve with a mint sauce
Mint sauce is a classic accompaniment to lamb. It adds a refreshing and tangy flavor that complements the richness of the meat.
– Add it to a salad
Slice the cooked lamb and toss it into a salad for a lighter yet satisfying meal. Mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and crumbled feta cheese make a delicious combination.
Conclusion
Cooking lamb in the microwave may initially sound unconventional, but it can produce impressive results. With the right seasonings and cooking techniques, you can enjoy tender and flavorful lamb in no time. So, next time you’re craving a delicious lamb dish but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen, give the microwave method a try. You might just be surprised at how easy and delicious it can be. Happy cooking!