Slow Cooker Lamb Breast Recipe – Easy Family Meal

Before diving into the delicious details of slow cooker lamb breast, let’s think about what to serve alongside this savory dish. When preparing lamb, especially in a slow cooker, you’ll want sides that complement its rich flavor.

Carrots, potatoes, and Brussels sprouts tossed with olive oil and rosemary make a wonderful pairing. The caramelization from roasting brings out the natural sweetness, enhancing the meal.

Creamy Polenta Italian staple is a comforting side that soaks up the lamb’s sauce beautifully. Add a sprinkle of parmesan for an extra flavor boost.

This cool, yogurt-based sauce filled with cucumber and herbs contrasts the richness of the lamb, adding freshness.

A loaf of artisan bread or some warm pita will be perfect for soaking up the juices of the lamb.

A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette balances the heartiness of the lamb, adding a refreshing element to the table.

Now, let’s embark on a culinary journey with slow cooker lamb breast!

What is Slow Cooker Lamb Breast?

Let’s break it down. Lamb breast is a flavorful cut of meat, a bit more fatty than other parts. This fat is your friend! When cooked low and slow, it breaks down beautifully, resulting in succulent meat that simply falls apart. 

Using a slow cooker transforms this humble cut into a luxurious meal. The prolonged cooking time allows the fat to render, making the meat juicy and full of flavor, with fragrant herbs and spices marrying beautifully in the process.

How Does It Taste Like?

The taste of slow cooker lamb breast is a balance of rich, savory goodness and aromatic herbs. Imagine a tender slice of meat, tenderized to perfection, with every bite practically melting on your tongue. 

It boasts a slightly sweet undertone from the marbling of fat, paired effortlessly with the herbal freshness from rosemary and thyme. There’s an earthy quality brought by slow cooking that enhances the inherent flavors of the lamb, offering a meal that feels indulgent yet comforting.

Why You'll Love This?

Why should you consider making this dish? First off, it’s a game-changer for busy individuals. You throw everything in, set the timer, and let the magic happen. Second, it’s versatile. You can serve it at a casual family dinner or dress it up for special occasions. 

Lastly, it’s one of those dishes that tastes even better the next day. Who doesn’t love leftovers that have had time to marinate in their own deliciousness?

Ingredients

For this recipe, here’s what you need:

For the Optional Stuffing:

• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 teaspoon fresh or dried rosemary, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon fresh or dried thyme, finely chopped
• 85 g sausage meat
• 50 g breadcrumbs (either dried from a packet or fresh)
• 1 teaspoon dried mint
• 1 large egg
• Salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon grated parmesan for extra richness

For the Lamb:

• 1 boned and rolled lamb breast (request your butcher to stuff it, if preferred)
• 1 large onion, peeled and chopped
• 2 carrots, cut into large chunks
• 2 sprigs fresh rosemary

Step by Step Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Stuffing (Optional)

Start by melting the butter in a pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and season it with a pinch of salt. Sauté until the onion is soft and translucent. This will take about 5 minutes. Your kitchen will start to smell fantastic!

Then add the fresh or dried rosemary and thyme. Stir for about a minute to release their aromatic flavors. Next, add the sausage meat, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until it’s browned. This step is crucial as it intensifies the flavor profile of your stuffing.

Remove from heat and let it cool slightly. In a bowl, combine the cooked mixture with breadcrumbs, dried mint, grated parmesan, and the egg. Season with salt and freshly ground pepper. Mix well until you have a cohesive stuffing. Set this aside while you prepare the lamb.

Step 2: Stuff the Lamb (Optional)

If you’re opting for stuffing, carefully unroll the lamb breast, creating a pocket for the stuffing. Stuff it generously, but remember not to overfill, as it needs to roll back up. Roll the lamb breast back up tightly, and secure it with kitchen twine or cooking string.

Step 3: Prepare the Slow Cooker

In your slow cooker, place the chopped onion and carrot at the bottom. This creates a flavorful base while keeping the meat from sitting in too much liquid. The vegetables will impart flavor to the broth as they cook.

Step 4: Place the Lamb Breast in the Slow Cooker

Now, place your stuffed (or unstuffed) lamb breast on top of the veggies in the slow cooker. If you’ve got any leftover stuffing, place that around the lamb for extra flavor.

Step 5: Add Herbs and Season

Add the fresh rosemary on top of the lamb. Season generously with salt and pepper. You might also add a splash of red wine or broth if you like, but keep in mind that the lamb will cook down and produce its own juices.

Step 6: Set It and Forget It

Cover the slow cooker and set it to low. Let it cook for about 6 to 8 hours. This slow and gentle approach allows the flavors to develop, resulting in fork-tender meat.

Step 7: Serve

Once cooking is complete, carefully remove the lamb breast. Allow it to rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve it alongside your favorite sides, and try to enjoy every bite that you’ve worked so hard to create!

Tips on Making Slow Cooker Lamb Breast

1. Choose Your Cut Wisely: Always opt for high-quality lamb breast. Fresh and well-marbled meat makes a difference.
2. Don’t Skip the Browning: Browning the lamb before placing it in the slow cooker enhances the overall flavor profile.
3. Let It Rest: After cooking, let the lamb rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to distribute evenly.
4. Flavor Check: Taste the juices before serving. Depending on your preference, you may want to reduce or thicken the sauce on the stove.
5. Use Leftovers Creatively: Leftover lamb can be shredded and used in sandwiches, tacos, or salads the next day, transforming your meal.

Nutrition Information

Here’s a basic overview of the nutritional information per serving (calculated based on approximate ingredients without stuffing):

• Calories: 350
• Protein: 30 g
• Fat: 25 g
• Carbohydrates: 8 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Sodium: 250 mg

These numbers may vary depending on exact ingredients and portion sizes.

How Do You Store This Slow Cooker Lamb Breast?

Storing leftover lamb breast is simple. Allow it to cool completely. Place it in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. 

For longer storage, the lamb can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just be sure to label the container with the date. When reheating, a gentle approach is best. Microwaving can dry it out, so opt for low heat in a skillet or oven.

What Other Substitutes Can You Use in Slow Cooker Lamb Breast?

If lamb breast isn’t your thing, you have options! Here are some great alternatives:

• Chuck Roast: This cut has a similar fat content and will yield juicy, tender meat over long hours of cooking.
• Pork Belly: If you’re feeling adventurous, pork belly offers rich flavors and tenderness like lamb.
• Chicken Thighs: A lighter option, chicken thighs work well, especially with herbs and spices, though they will cook faster than lamb.
• Beef Brisket: This cut benefits from slow cooking and provides a hearty meal with a different flavor profile.
• Vegetable Options: For a vegetarian twist, consider using firm vegetables like eggplant or squash, seasoned and layered in the slow cooker.

Conclusion

Slow cooker lamb breast isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience—a delicious way to gather around the table with family and friends. Tender, flavorful, and downright comforting, this dish beckons for shared moments and stories. 

Whether you choose to stuff it or stick to the basics, it promises satisfaction and intrigue. So, roll up your sleeves, embrace the simplicity of slow cooking, and let the flavors do the talking. Enjoy every bite, and don’t forget the sides! Happy cooking!

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