Tender Herb-Rubbed Slow-Cooked Pulled Lamb Shoulder with Garlic & Rosemary

Enjoy the rich, comforting flavors of this slow-cooked lamb shoulder, infused with fragrant garlic, rosemary, and thyme. Roasted low and slow until irresistibly tender, the meat effortlessly falls off the bone, making it perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or meal prep. Serve it with your favorite sides for a hearty and memorable meal.

Ingredients

• 4 lb (1.8 kg) bone-in lamb shoulder
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 5 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
• 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon sea salt
• 1 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
• 1 cup beef or chicken stock
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Pat the lamb shoulder dry using paper towels to help the seasoning adhere.
3. In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, garlic, rosemary, thyme, smoked paprika, onion powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper to create a flavorful herb rub.
4. Massage the mixture generously over the entire lamb shoulder, coating every surface evenly.
5. Place the seasoned lamb into a heavy Dutch oven or a deep roasting pan.
6. In a separate bowl, whisk together the stock, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice. Pour the liquid around the lamb, avoiding washing off the seasoning.
7. Cover tightly with a lid or a double layer of aluminum foil to trap the moisture.
8. Roast for 4½ to 5½ hours, basting once or twice during cooking, until the lamb is exceptionally tender and easily shreds with a fork.
9. Transfer the lamb to a cutting board and let it rest for about 15 minutes.
10. Remove the bone and any excess fat, then shred the meat using two forks.
11. Toss the pulled lamb with a few spoonfuls of the rich pan juices before serving for maximum flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this succulent pulled lamb with creamy mashed potatoes, roasted seasonal vegetables, warm flatbreads, or a crisp green salad. It also makes a delicious filling for wraps, sandwiches, or grain bowls.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 5 hours
Total Time: 5 hours 15 minutes

Yield: 6 servings
Calories: Approximately 520 kcal per serving