Perfect pairs for lamb dishes

by Metropol | April 30, 2025 8:30 am

Lamb, in roast, braised, shank, or stew form, is tasty. Understanding its flavour profile and pairings makes a delicious lamb dish a winner.

SIDE DISHES

• Enjoy the classic side of pan-roasted asparagus with butter and lemon, or upgrade it by shaving the vegetable into ribbons. Serve fresh, drizzled with olive oil and a sprinkle of herbs.
• Boiled and blanched baby broccoli drenched in soy sauce, mirin, and lightly browned sesame seeds offers a sharp, salty-savoury taste to complement lamb’s richness.
• Roasted sweet, smoky carrots complement lamb beautifully – paprika, cumin, and cayenne pepper fuse with honey for a balanced forkful.
• Crispy potatoes made crispier? We are here for it. Boil and then flatten potatoes, sizzle on medium heat with garlic and oil. Season with salt, pepper, and ground rosemary.

HERBS

• A traditional choice, rosemary and thyme enhance lamb’s earthy, savoury notes.
• Choose mint to offset lamb’s rich flavour with a fresh twist.
• Punchy spices such as paprika and harissa paste can magnify lamb’s flavour.
• Sweet fruits including fig or apricot can sweeten up a lamb shank for that melt-in-your-mouth moment.

SAUCES

• Chimichurri, a classic as a marinade or spooned over.
• Peppercorn sauce becomes a creamy companion with a kick.
• Tzatziki, utilising the flavour of yoghurt, fresh dill, mint, garlic, and cucumber, is ideal for lamb gyros, burgers, or as a dipping sauce for tender roast lamb.
• Horseradish sauce pairs wonderfully with the mild, slightly gamey flavour of lamb for a restaurant-worthy meal creation.

Source URL: https://metropol.co.nz/perfect-pair/

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