Mary Berry Rugby Lamb

Name: Mary Berry Rugby Lamb
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 1 h 30 min
Total time: 1 h 50 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1.5 kg leg of lamb; 4 cloves of garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped; 2 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 500 ml chicken stock; 500 g root vegetables (carrots, potatoes, and parsnips), chopped

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

A delightful and sumptuous dish that showcases the best of lamb, perfect for gatherings and special occasions.

Created by

Phoebe Drake

Last updated on 2025-12-18T16:07:36.255Z

This Mary Berry Rugby Lamb recipe is inspired by the rich traditions of British cooking. Perfectly roasted lamb that falls off the bone, accompanied by a medley of vegetables and aromatic herbs, makes this dish a must-try for anyone who loves hearty meals.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Tender lamb infused with aromatic herbs
Perfectly roasted for a deliciously crispy exterior
Ideal for family gatherings or special occasions

      

The Essence of Rugby Lamb

Mary Berry's Rugby Lamb is a dish that perfectly embodies the rich flavors and textures of slow-roasted lamb. The combination of fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme infuses the meat with an aromatic profile that elevates any dining experience. When you serve this dish, you're not just offering food; you're presenting a culinary experience that showcases tradition and love for home-cooked meals.

What sets this recipe apart is the method of preparation. By seasoning the lamb generously and roasting it to perfection, the result is a tender, succulent piece of meat that practically falls off the bone. The addition of root vegetables not only enhances the dish's visual appeal but also complements the lamb's rich flavor, creating a well-rounded meal that’s both comforting and sophisticated.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether it's a family gathering, a holiday celebration, or a dinner party, Rugby Lamb is the perfect centerpiece. Its impressive appearance and delightful aroma will captivate your guests from the moment they walk through the door. You can easily adapt the recipe to suit your occasion, making it a versatile choice for any culinary enthusiast.

Additionally, the ease of preparation allows you to spend less time in the kitchen and more time with your loved ones. With just a few simple steps, you can create a dish that feels like a labor of love, giving you the chance to enjoy the festivities without the stress of complicated cooking techniques.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to prepare this delightful dish:

Ingredients

1.5 kg leg of lamb
4 cloves of garlic, minced
2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
2 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
500 ml chicken stock
500 g root vegetables (carrots, potatoes, and parsnips), chopped

Ensure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious Mary Berry Rugby Lamb:

Prepare the Lamb

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Season the lamb with salt, pepper, minced garlic, rosemary, and thyme. Rub olive oil over the lamb to ensure it’s well coated.

Roast the Lamb

Place the lamb in a roasting pan and pour the chicken stock around it. Roast for 1.5 hours, basting occasionally.

Add Vegetables

During the last 30 minutes of roasting, add the chopped root vegetables to the pan. Ensure they are submerged in the stock for maximum flavor.

Serve

Once cooked, let the lamb rest for 10 minutes before carving. Serve with the roasted vegetables and pan juices.

Enjoy this heartwarming dish with your loved ones!

Tips for the Perfect Roast

To achieve the best results with your Rugby Lamb, be sure to start with a quality cut of meat. Look for a leg of lamb that is well-marbled, as the fat will render during cooking, resulting in a moist and flavorful dish. Additionally, allowing the lamb to come to room temperature before seasoning and roasting will help it cook evenly.

Basting the lamb every 30 minutes with the pan juices is crucial for developing a beautiful, crispy exterior. This technique not only adds flavor but also helps to keep the meat juicy and tender. If the vegetables are browning too quickly, you can cover the pan loosely with foil to prevent burning while the lamb finishes cooking.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving your Rugby Lamb, presentation is key. Arrange the roasted vegetables around the lamb on a large serving platter, allowing the vibrant colors to shine. Drizzle some of the flavorful pan juices over the top to enhance the dish's appeal and add an extra layer of richness.

Pair this sumptuous lamb with a full-bodied red wine, like a Cabernet Sauvignon or a Merlot, which complements the savory flavors beautifully. For a refreshing contrast, consider a side salad dressed with a light vinaigrette. This balance will elevate your meal and leave your guests raving about your culinary skills.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different cut of lamb?

Yes, you can use shoulder or rack of lamb, but cooking times may vary.

→ What vegetables can I add?

Feel free to incorporate seasonal vegetables like squash or Brussels sprouts.

→ Can this dish be prepared in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the lamb up to the roasting stage and refrigerate it. Just ensure it's brought to room temperature before roasting.

→ How do I store leftovers?

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