Mary Berry Rugby Lamb

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Experience the delightful flavors of Mary Berry's Rugby Lamb, a dish that beautifully combines tender lamb with aromatic herbs and spices.

Lila Morgan

Created by

Lila Morgan

Last updated on 2025-12-18T14:35:28.336Z

Mary Berry's Rugby Lamb is not just a meal; it's a celebration of flavor and tradition, perfect for family gatherings or special occasions.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

  • Succulent lamb infused with aromatic herbs
  • Rich and hearty flavors that warm the soul
  • Perfect for sharing with family and friends

A Culinary Journey with Rugby Lamb

Mary Berry's Rugby Lamb is more than just a meal; it's a culinary journey that evokes memories of family gatherings and festive celebrations. This recipe showcases the rich tradition of slow-cooked lamb, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Each bite offers a tender piece of meat, infused with the essence of fresh herbs and spices, making it a dish that resonates with warmth and hospitality.

The preparation of Rugby Lamb is a labor of love, allowing you to relish in the process of cooking. From searing the lamb to the aromatic sautéing of vegetables, every step builds anticipation for the delightful feast to come. This dish is a testament to the magic of home-cooked meals, where the kitchen becomes the heart of the home.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether you're hosting a cozy family dinner or a festive gathering with friends, Rugby Lamb is an excellent choice that promises to impress. Its rich and hearty flavors make it a versatile dish suitable for any occasion. Pair it with seasonal vegetables or a fresh salad, and you have a complete meal that caters to different tastes and preferences.

Moreover, the leftovers can be transformed into delicious sandwiches or shepherd's pie, adding even more value to this already generous dish. This adaptability makes Rugby Lamb a staple in any home cook's repertoire, ensuring that every meal is both memorable and satisfying.

Tips for the Perfect Rugby Lamb

To achieve the best results with your Rugby Lamb, consider using a high-quality shoulder of lamb. The bone-in cut not only adds flavor but also helps keep the meat moist during the long roasting process. Ensure you season generously with salt and pepper before searing, as this enhances the overall taste of the dish.

Additionally, don't rush the cooking time. Allowing the lamb to roast slowly ensures it becomes tender and flavorful. If you have the time, marinating the lamb overnight with the herbs can further enhance its taste, resulting in a dish that is truly unforgettable.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create this delicious dish:

For the Lamb

  • 1.5 kg lamb shoulder, bone-in
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 onions, chopped
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 carrots, diced
  • 2 celery stalks, diced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
  • 500 ml chicken stock
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure to have all ingredients prepared before starting the cooking process.

Cooking Instructions

Follow these steps to create a perfect Rugby Lamb:

Prepare the Lamb

Preheat your oven to 160°C (320°F). Season the lamb shoulder with salt and pepper. In a large ovenproof pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat and sear the lamb on all sides until browned.

Sauté Vegetables

Add the onions, garlic, carrots, and celery to the pot. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are softened.

Add Herbs and Stock

Stir in the rosemary and thyme, then pour in the chicken stock. Bring to a simmer.

Roast the Lamb

Cover the pot with a lid and transfer it to the oven. Roast for about 90 minutes, or until the lamb is tender and easily pulls apart with a fork.

Serve

Remove the pot from the oven and let the lamb rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy with your favorite sides!

Once cooked, serve the lamb hot and enjoy the rich flavors.

Serving Suggestions

Rugby Lamb pairs beautifully with a variety of sides that complement its rich flavors. Consider serving it alongside creamy mashed potatoes or a fluffy couscous salad to soak up the delicious juices. Roasted seasonal vegetables also make for a vibrant and nutritious accompaniment, adding color and texture to your table.

For a heartier meal, crusty bread or dinner rolls are perfect for mopping up the savory sauce. A glass of full-bodied red wine can further elevate the dining experience, enhancing the flavors of the lamb and creating a truly indulgent feast.

Storage and Reheating

If you find yourself with leftovers, Rugby Lamb can be easily stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Ensure you let the lamb cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. For longer storage, consider freezing portions, where it can last for up to three months without losing its quality.

When reheating, it's best to do so gently to maintain the tenderness of the meat. You can warm it in the oven covered with foil, or on the stovetop with a little added stock to keep it moist. This way, you'll enjoy the delightful flavors of Rugby Lamb all over again!

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different cut of lamb?

Yes, you can use lamb shanks or leg of lamb, but cooking times may vary.

→ What sides pair well with Rugby Lamb?

Roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad would be great choices.

→ Can I make this dish in advance?

Absolutely! It can be made a day ahead and reheated before serving.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Mary Berry Rugby Lamb

Experience the delightful flavors of Mary Berry's Rugby Lamb, a dish that beautifully combines tender lamb with aromatic herbs and spices.

Prep Time20 minutes
Cooking Duration90 minutes
Overall Time110 minutes

Created by: Lila Morgan

Recipe Type: Comfort Food

Skill Level: Intermediate

Final Quantity: 4 servings

What You'll Need

For the Lamb

  1. 1.5 kg lamb shoulder, bone-in
  2. 2 tablespoons olive oil
  3. 2 onions, chopped
  4. 4 garlic cloves, minced
  5. 2 carrots, diced
  6. 2 celery stalks, diced
  7. 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
  8. 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
  9. 500 ml chicken stock
  10. Salt and pepper to taste

How-To Steps

Step 01

Preheat your oven to 160°C (320°F). Season the lamb shoulder with salt and pepper. In a large ovenproof pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat and sear the lamb on all sides until browned.

Step 02

Add the onions, garlic, carrots, and celery to the pot. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are softened.

Step 03

Stir in the rosemary and thyme, then pour in the chicken stock. Bring to a simmer.

Step 04

Cover the pot with a lid and transfer it to the oven. Roast for about 90 minutes, or until the lamb is tender and easily pulls apart with a fork.

Step 05

Remove the pot from the oven and let the lamb rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy with your favorite sides!

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 550 kcal
  • Total Fat: 30g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Cholesterol: 120mg
  • Sodium: 180mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 25g
  • Dietary Fiber: 4g
  • Sugars: 5g
  • Protein: 45g