Lamb Breast Plate Recipe: 5 Easy Steps to Perfectly Tender Meat
Have you ever wondered how to cook lamb so tender that it practically melts in your mouth? If you’ve been trying to figure out how to make lamb as juicy and soft as it is flavorful, you’re in the right place! In this post, we’re going to dive into the ultimate lamb breast plate recipe, with five simple steps that will turn you into a pro lamb chef. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned cook, you’ll learn the tricks to make lamb that is tender, juicy, and packed with flavor. Let’s get started!
Table of Contents
Overview lamb breast plate recipe
Lamb has a rich and distinct flavor, and when prepared right, it can be one of the most tender meats you’ll ever taste. The lamb breast plate recipe is especially popular because of its versatility and ability to soak up flavors, making it a perfect choice for a hearty meal. With just five easy steps, you’ll be able to create a mouth-watering dish without any complex techniques.
Time Requirement:
- Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 1 to 1.5 hours
- Total time: About 1 hour 15 minutes to 1.5 hours
Difficulty Level:
- Easy: This recipe is perfect for beginners, with simple steps and minimal ingredients.
This lamb breast plate recipe is ideal for family dinners, special occasions, or when you’re craving something savory and tender without a lot of fuss.

lamb breast plate recipe
Essential Ingredients lamb breast plate recipe
To make this recipe come to life, you’ll need a few key ingredients. Here’s the breakdown:
- Lamb Breast Plate: This is the star of the dish. The lamb breast is a flavorful cut, with layers of fat and meat that become incredibly tender when cooked slowly. It’s inexpensive and perfect for roasting or braising.Substitutes: If you can’t find lamb breast, you can use lamb shanks or shoulder for a similar result.
- Olive Oil: This helps with searing the lamb, ensuring it gets that beautiful golden-brown crust. It also adds a subtle, rich flavor.Substitutes: You can use vegetable oil or butter if preferred.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic adds a sharp, aromatic flavor that pairs beautifully with lamb. You’ll need about 3 to 4 cloves.Substitutes: Garlic powder can work in a pinch, but fresh garlic gives the best flavor.
- Fresh Herbs (Rosemary & Thyme): These classic herbs are the perfect match for lamb. They add fragrance and depth to the meat.Substitutes: If you don’t have fresh herbs, dried rosemary and thyme work well too.
- Salt & Pepper: Essential for seasoning, these simple ingredients bring out the natural flavors of the lamb.
- Lemon Zest: A bit of lemon zest brings a bright, fresh flavor that cuts through the richness of the lamb.
- Chicken Broth: This is used to braise the lamb, making it extra tender and flavorful.Substitutes: Vegetable broth or beef broth can be used if you don’t have chicken broth.
Step-by-Step Instructions lamb breast plate recipe
Step 1: Prep the Lamb
Start by removing any excess fat from the lamb breast plate. This will prevent the dish from becoming too greasy and allow the seasoning to penetrate the meat. Pat the lamb dry with a paper towel, which helps the meat to sear better.
Step 2: Season the Lamb
Rub the lamb generously with olive oil, garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, pepper, and lemon zest. Massage the seasonings into the meat to ensure every surface is coated. This step is key to infusing flavor into the lamb.
Step 3: Sear the Lamb
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a little olive oil and place the lamb breast plate in the pan. Sear for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the lamb develops a golden-brown crust. This step locks in the flavors and gives the lamb a beautiful texture.
Step 4: Braise the Lamb
After searing, transfer the lamb to a roasting pan. Pour the chicken broth around the lamb and cover the pan with foil. This is where the lamb will cook slowly, becoming tender and juicy.
Place the pan in the oven at 325°F (165°C) and cook for 1 to 1.5 hours. Check occasionally, and if the broth evaporates, add a little more. The lamb is done when it’s fork-tender and the meat pulls away easily from the bone.
Step 5: Rest and Serve
Once the lamb is cooked to perfection, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring the meat stays moist when sliced.
Assembly
Now that your lamb is ready, it’s time to serve! Slice the lamb breast plate against the grain for tender pieces. You can serve it on a platter, garnished with fresh herbs and a drizzle of the braising liquid.
For a beautiful presentation:
- Arrange roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes around the lamb.
- Garnish with extra lemon zest or fresh rosemary sprigs.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
This lamb breast plate recipe is perfect for make-ahead meals! If you want to prep in advance, you can season the lamb the night before and refrigerate it. This will allow the flavors to develop even more.
Storing Leftovers:
- Refrigerate: If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: You can freeze cooked lamb for up to 3 months. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing.
To reheat, simply place the lamb in the oven at 325°F (165°C) for 15-20 minutes or until heated through.
Recipe Variations
Looking for something a little different? Here are a few variations to try with your lamb breast plate recipe:
- Spicy Lamb: Add chili flakes or paprika to the seasoning for a bit of heat. Pair with a yogurt-based sauce for balance.
- Citrus Infused Lamb: Instead of lemon zest, use orange zest for a sweeter, citrusy twist. You can also add a splash of orange juice to the braising liquid.
- Herb-Infused Lamb: Swap rosemary and thyme for oregano, mint, or parsley for a different flavor profile.
Conclusion lamb breast plate recipe
Cooking a tender, flavorful lamb breast plate doesn’t have to be intimidating. With these five simple steps, you can make a delicious dish that will wow your family or guests. Don’t be afraid to experiment with the seasonings and variations to make it your own. Enjoy the process and have fun in the kitchen!
FAQs lamb breast plate recipe
1. Can I use a different cut of lamb?
Yes! While lamb breast plate is ideal for this recipe, you can substitute lamb shoulder or shanks if needed. These cuts also become tender when braised.
2. Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! For a set-it-and-forget-it approach, you can braise the lamb in a slow cooker on low for 6-8 hours.
3. How do I know when the lamb is done?
The lamb is done when it’s fork-tender and the meat easily pulls away from the bone. If you’re unsure, a meat thermometer should read 195°F (90°C) for perfect tenderness.
4. What are the health benefits of lamb?
Lamb is a great source of protein, vitamins, and minerals like zinc and iron. It’s also high in healthy fats, especially when cooked with olive oil and fresh herbs.
5. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the lamb and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop!