Roast Lamb Declared as Australia's National Dish - Try Our Recipe for the Easiest and Tastiest Roast Lamb

G'day, mate! Are you ready to dive into the mouth-watering and juicy history of Roast Lamb, voted again as Australia's beloved national dish?

The poll, held on News Ltd websites across all mainland capitals, attracted more than 24,000 votes. It revealed three clear front-runners  – all of them meat-based.

Roast lamb, with 6177 votes, barely scraped home from the meat pie (5741) and the barbecued sausage wrapped in white bread from Bunnings (5317).

The ultimate roast in Australia

Today let's explore the origins and evolution of this iconic meal.

Ever since the first sheep arrived on Australian soil in 1788 with British settlers, lamb has been an essential part of the country's identity and cuisine. Over time, Roast Lamb became the quintessential Aussie dish, commonly eaten for Sunday lunch or on special occasions such as Australia Day.

The History of Roast Lamb in Australia:

Roast Lamb's popularity can be traced back to the early days of Australia's history. British colonisers brought their love of lamb to the island continent, and the vast lands provided the perfect grazing conditions for sheep. By the 19th century, lamb was a staple meat for Australians, with many families owning their own sheep to supply their meat needs.

Lambs grazing at sunset

During World War II, Roast Lamb became a symbol of national identity and unity. The government launched a campaign to encourage Australians to eat more lamb to support the wool industry, and Roast Lamb was chosen as a meal that would bring people together. This campaign cemented the dish as an integral part of Australian culture, and it has remained a beloved national treasure ever since.

What Makes Roast Lamb Special:

Roast Lamb is favored because of its exquisite flavor and cultural associations. Australians attribute their love of the dish to the moist and succulent meat that is roasted to perfection, ensuring a crispy caramelized exterior that melts in your mouth. It has also gained a reputation for being a dish to be shared with family and friends, bringing people together around a table.

Nutritionally, lamb is an excellent source of protein, iron, and vitamin B12. It is also a versatile meat that can be cooked in various ways, such as grilled, barbecued, or roasted. Not only does it taste great, but it is also pretty good for you!

Recipe: The Perfect Roast Lamb:

Now that we have piqued your interest with the rich history and delicious flavor of Roast Lamb, let's dive into the recipe to make your perfect lamb roast. Here is what you'll need:

• 1 leg of lamb (around 2 kgs or 4.4 lbs)

• Salt and pepper

• 2-3 cloves of garlic

• Rosemary sprigs

• Olive oil

Instructions:

Preheat your oven to 180°C (355°F).

Rub salt and pepper on the lamb, making sure it is evenly coated.

Score the lamb with a sharp knife and place garlic cloves and rosemary sprigs into the crevices.

Drizzle some olive oil over the lamb and place it in a roasting pan.

Roast the lamb for around 1.5 hours or until it has reached your desired level of doneness. A good rule of thumb is to cook the lamb for 25 minutes per 500g (1 lb) for medium-rare meat.

Once cooked, remove the lamb from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before carving it up and serving it with your favorite sides.

We hope you are hungry!

Tips and Tricks:

To achieve that delectable, tender, and juicy lamb roast, follow these tips:

Leave the lamb at room temperature for about 30 minutes before cooking to ensure even cooking.

Baste the lamb with its juices during the cooking process to enhance the flavor.

Use a meat thermometer to ensure your roast is cooked to perfection.

Conclusion:

As you can see, Roast Lamb is more than just a tasty meal. It's a significant part of Australia's cultural heritage, evoking memories of family gatherings and special occasions. This iconic dish not only tastes delicious but also provides a healthy source of nutrients for your body. So next time you're looking to impress your family and friends with a delicious home-cooked meal, try this recipe for the perfect Roast Lamb and enjoy the rich tradition and history behind this beloved dish. Cheers!