Mechoui

Mechoui
Algeria
⏱ — min. Serves: —

Ingredients

  • 1 whole leg of lamb (about 5-6 lbs)
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon ground cumin
  • 1 tablespoon ground coriander
  • 1 tablespoon ground paprika
  • 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 2 teaspoons salt
  • 1 lemon, juiced
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped

Instructions

Prepare the Marinade

In a small bowl, combine the minced garlic, olive oil, ground cumin, ground coriander, ground paprika, ground turmeric, ground cinnamon, ground black pepper, salt, lemon juice, chopped parsley, and chopped cilantro. Mix well to form a paste.

Marinate the Lamb

Rinse the leg of lamb and pat it dry with paper towels. Using a sharp knife, make small slits all over the lamb.

Rub the marinade paste all over the lamb, ensuring it gets into the slits. Cover the lamb with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for best results.

Prepare the Grill

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If using a charcoal grill, ensure the coals are hot and have a layer of white ash.

Grill the Lamb

Place the marinated leg of lamb on the grill. Cover the grill and cook for about 1.5 to 2 hours, turning occasionally to ensure even cooking.

The lamb is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 145째F (63째C) for medium-rare or 160째F (71째C) for medium. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.

Rest the Lamb

Once cooked to your desired doneness, remove the lamb from the grill and let it rest for about 15 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat.

Serve

Carve the mechoui into slices and arrange on a serving platter. Garnish with additional fresh parsley and cilantro if desired.

Enjoy your meal!