Olivia Carter
If you’re looking for a delicious and tender way to prepare lamb shoulder fillet, the slow cooker is your answer. Slow cooking allows the lamb to become incredibly tender and packed with flavor. It’s a simple and hands-off method that results in a mouth-watering meal.
Why choose lamb shoulder fillet?
Lamb shoulder fillet is a flavorful and versatile cut of meat, perfect for slow cooking. It’s a tender and juicy piece that can be easily prepared in the slow cooker. The slow cooking process not only tenderizes the meat, but it also allows the flavors to meld together, creating a wonderful and rich taste.
How to prepare the lamb shoulder fillet:
Before cooking, it’s important to trim any excess fat from the lamb shoulder fillet. This will help prevent the dish from becoming overly greasy. You can also marinate the lamb shoulder fillet in your favorite herbs and spices for added flavor. Simply rub the marinade all over the meat and let it sit for a few hours or overnight.
How to cook the lamb shoulder fillet in the slow cooker:
To start, place the lamb shoulder fillet in the slow cooker and add any desired vegetables such as onions, carrots, and potatoes. You can also add seasonings like garlic, rosemary, and thyme for extra flavor. Pour in enough liquid, such as stock or wine, to almost cover the meat.
Set the slow cooker to low heat and let it cook for 6-8 hours or until the lamb is fork-tender. The slow cooker will do all the work, allowing you to enjoy a hassle-free cooking experience. Once the lamb is cooked, remove it from the slow cooker and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
Serving suggestions:
The slow-cooked lamb shoulder fillet can be served with a variety of sides such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad. The tender meat pairs well with bold flavors, so feel free to experiment with different sauces or condiments to enhance the taste.
Now that you know how to cook lamb shoulder fillet in the slow cooker, you can enjoy a delicious and effortless meal that will impress your family and friends. So, dust off your slow cooker and get ready to savor the incredible taste of slow-cooked lamb shoulder fillet!
What is lamb shoulder fillet?
Lamb shoulder fillet is a tender and flavorful cut of meat that comes from the shoulder section of a lamb. It is a versatile cut that can be cooked in various ways, including slow cooking in a slow cooker. When cooked properly, lamb shoulder fillet becomes extremely tender and juicy, making it a favorite choice for many meat lovers.
The shoulder section of a lamb is a well-worked muscle, which makes the meat slightly tougher compared to other cuts. However, this toughness can be easily overcome by slow cooking the lamb shoulder fillet, allowing the meat to become tender and succulent.
One of the advantages of using lamb shoulder fillet is that it has a good amount of marbling, which adds to the flavor and juiciness of the meat. The marbling consists of intramuscular fat that melts during cooking, resulting in a more flavorful and moist final dish.
Lamb shoulder fillet can be used in a variety of dishes, such as stews, curries, and roasts. It pairs well with a wide range of flavors and ingredients, making it a versatile ingredient in the kitchen.
When purchasing lamb shoulder fillet, it is important to look for a piece that is well-trimmed with a good amount of marbling. This will ensure that the meat is tender and flavorful when cooked.
Why cook lamb shoulder fillet in the slow cooker?
The slow cooker is an essential kitchen appliance for many households, and cooking lamb shoulder fillet in it offers numerous benefits.
1. Tender and succulent meat: Slow cooking allows the lamb shoulder fillet to become incredibly tender and succulent, as the low and slow heat tenderizes the connective tissues and breaks down the collagen, resulting in a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
2. Flavour infusion: The slow cooker allows the flavours of all the ingredients to mingle and intensify over time, resulting in a rich and delicious meal. The lamb shoulder fillet absorbs the flavors of the herbs, spices, and other ingredients it is cooked with, creating a truly satisfying dish.
3. Time-saving convenience: Slow cooking is a hands-off method of cooking, making it perfect for busy individuals or families. Simply add the lamb shoulder fillet and other ingredients to the slow cooker, set the desired cooking time and temperature, and let it work its magic. You can go about your day while the slow cooker does all the work.
4. Versatile cooking method: The slow cooker is a versatile tool that can handle a variety of cooking styles. Whether you prefer to roast, braise, or stew your lamb shoulder fillet, the slow cooker can do it all. It allows you to explore different flavor profiles and experiment with various cooking techniques.
5. Easy cleanup: Cooking in a slow cooker means fewer dishes to clean up. Since all the ingredients are cooked in one pot, there are fewer pots, pans, and utensils to wash. This makes it a convenient option for those who want to enjoy a delicious meal without the hassle of cleaning up a messy kitchen.
| Benefits of cooking lamb shoulder fillet in the slow cooker: |
|---|
| – Tender and succulent meat |
| – Flavour infusion |
| – Time-saving convenience |
| – Versatile cooking method |
| – Easy cleanup |
Step 1: Prepare the lamb shoulder fillet
Before cooking the lamb shoulder fillet in the slow cooker, it is important to properly prepare it. Follow these steps to ensure your lamb is delicious and tender:
| Ingredients: |
|---|
| – 1 kg lamb shoulder fillet |
| – Salt and pepper to taste |
1. Start by trimming any excess fat from the lamb shoulder fillet. This will help prevent the meat from becoming too greasy during the cooking process.
2. Season the lamb with salt and pepper on both sides. This will enhance the flavor of the meat.
3. Optional: You can marinate the lamb shoulder fillet overnight in your desired marinade to add extra flavor. Some popular marinade options include garlic and herb, rosemary and lemon, or a spice rub.
4. Once the lamb is seasoned or marinated, place it in the slow cooker. Make sure it fits comfortably without overcrowding the slow cooker.
5. Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low heat for approximately 8 hours. This will allow the lamb to become tender and juicy.
Now that your lamb shoulder fillet is prepared, it’s time to move on to the next step: Cooking the lamb in the slow cooker.
Trim excess fat
Before cooking your lamb shoulder fillet, it’s important to trim any excess fat. This will not only help reduce the overall fat content of your dish but also ensure that the meat is tender and flavorful.
To trim the fat, start by placing the lamb shoulder fillet on a clean cutting board. Use a sharp knife to carefully remove any large pieces of fat that are easily visible. Take your time and work slowly to avoid removing too much of the meat.
Once you have removed the larger pieces of fat, inspect the fillet for any smaller, harder fat deposits. These are typically found along the edges and can be easily removed with the tip of your knife.
It’s important to note that some amount of fat is desirable, as it adds flavor and helps keep the meat moist during cooking. However, you want to remove any excessive fat that may make your dish greasy or unpleasant to eat.
After you have trimmed the excess fat, your lamb shoulder fillet is ready to be cooked in the slow cooker. By taking the time to trim the fat, you’re ensuring that your dish will be both delicious and healthy.
Season the fillet
Before cooking the lamb shoulder fillet in a slow cooker, it’s important to season it properly to enhance the flavors. Here’s how you can season the fillet:
1. Start by patting the lamb shoulder fillet dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture.
2. Season the fillet generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper on all sides. This will help to bring out the natural flavors of the meat.
3. For added flavor, you can also rub the fillet with your choice of herbs and spices. Some popular options include garlic powder, paprika, rosemary, thyme, and oregano. Feel free to experiment with different seasonings to suit your taste preferences.
4. Place the seasoned lamb shoulder fillet in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish, and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight. This will allow the flavors to penetrate the meat and make it more tender.
5. Once the fillet is marinated, it’s ready to be cooked in the slow cooker according to your chosen recipe. Make sure to follow the instructions carefully to ensure the best results.
Pro tip:
For an extra kick of flavor, you can also add some chopped onions, garlic, or citrus fruits like lemon or orange to the marinating dish. These ingredients will infuse the lamb shoulder fillet with additional aromas and tastes.
| Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Lamb shoulder fillet | 1 piece |
| Salt | To taste |
| Black pepper | To taste |
| Herbs and spices | To taste |
Step 2: Set up the slow cooker
Before you start cooking your lamb shoulder fillet, it’s essential to prepare your slow cooker properly. Follow these steps:
- Place the slow cooker on a stable and heat-resistant surface. Make sure it’s close to an electrical outlet.
- Remove the lid from the slow cooker and set it aside. You will need it later.
- Line the bottom of the slow cooker with a slow cooker liner or parchment paper. This will make the cleanup process easier.
- Plug in the slow cooker and make sure it is set to the “Low” or “High” setting, depending on your recipe and cooking preferences.
- Allow the slow cooker to preheat for at least 20 minutes before adding the ingredients. This ensures that the cooking process will start immediately, and your lamb shoulder fillet will be properly cooked.
Once you have set up your slow cooker, you are ready to move on to the next step, which is preparing your lamb shoulder fillet for cooking.
Add vegetables and herbs
Enhance the flavour of your slow-cooked lamb shoulder fillet by adding a variety of vegetables and herbs. This will not only add depth to the dish but also provide essential nutrients.
Use a mixture of root vegetables such as carrots, parsnips, and potatoes. These vegetables work well with lamb and will become tender and delicious after cooking for several hours.
Chop the vegetables into bite-sized pieces and place them in the slow cooker with the lamb shoulder fillet. This will allow the flavors to meld together as they cook.
Next, add a selection of herbs to further enhance the taste of the dish. Rosemary, thyme, and garlic are classic choices that pair well with lamb. Sprinkle the herbs over the lamb and vegetables, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the slow cooker.
If you prefer, you can tie the herbs into a bouquet garni using kitchen twine. This will make it easier to remove the herbs once the dish is cooked and will prevent any unwanted herb remnants in your final meal.
Once you have added the vegetables and herbs, you can then pour in any additional liquid such as stock or wine. This will help to keep the lamb shoulder fillet moist and tender as it slowly cooks.
Make sure not to overcrowd the slow cooker as this can affect the cooking time and result in unevenly cooked ingredients. Leave enough space for the steam and heat to circulate, allowing for even cooking.
Now that your lamb shoulder fillet is surrounded by a medley of vegetables and herbs, it’s time to cover the slow cooker and set it to the desired cooking time. Allow the flavors to meld together and the meat to become tender and succulent.
Once the cooking time is complete, you can serve the lamb shoulder fillet with the vegetables and herbs. The result will be a delicious and flavorful dish that showcases the richness of the lamb alongside the aromatic herbs and vibrant vegetables.
Place the lamb shoulder fillet in the slow cooker
To begin preparing your lamb shoulder fillet in the slow cooker, carefully place the meat into the slow cooker dish. Make sure the fillet is placed evenly and flat, so that it can cook evenly.
Before placing the lamb in the slow cooker, you may want to trim off any excess fat or silver skin from the meat. This can help prevent the dish from becoming greasy and ensures a more tender and flavorful final result.
Once the lamb is in the slow cooker, you can add your desired seasonings and aromatics. This could include herbs like rosemary, thyme, or oregano, as well as minced garlic or sliced onions. These ingredients will infuse the lamb with delicious flavors as it slow cooks.
After adding the seasonings, it’s important to make sure the slow cooker is set to the appropriate temperature and cooking time. This will vary depending on your specific slow cooker model and the desired doneness of the lamb. Generally, a low temperature setting for 6-8 hours will result in a tender, juicy lamb shoulder fillet.
Remember to put the lid securely back on the slow cooker after placing the lamb inside, as this will help retain moisture and ensure even cooking.
With the lamb shoulder fillet now in the slow cooker, you can let it cook slowly and gently until it reaches the desired level of tenderness. This method allows the meat to become incredibly tender and flavorful as it cooks low and slow.
Once the cooking time is complete, carefully remove the lamb shoulder fillet from the slow cooker and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more succulent and flavorful dish.
Now that the lamb has been prepared and cooked to perfection, you can serve it as desired. Whether you choose to slice it and serve with roasted vegetables, use it as a filling for sandwiches or wraps, or incorporate it into various recipes, your slow-cooked lamb shoulder fillet will surely impress and satisfy.
Step 3: Cook the lamb shoulder fillet
Once the lamb shoulder fillet has been marinated and rested, it’s time to cook it in the slow cooker. The slow cooker is perfect for tenderizing the meat and infusing it with flavor.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 kg lamb shoulder fillet
- 2 onions, sliced
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 cup beef or vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
1. Preheat your slow cooker on low setting.
2. In a large skillet, heat some oil over medium-high heat. Add the lamb shoulder fillet and brown it on all sides, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove the lamb and set it aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the onions, garlic, carrots, and celery. Saute them for about 5 minutes, until they are slightly softened.
4. Transfer the sauteed vegetables to the slow cooker.
5. Place the browned lamb shoulder fillet on top of the vegetables in the slow cooker.
| Cooking Time | Setting | Internal Temperature |
|---|---|---|
| 6-8 hours | Low | 145°F (medium-rare) to 160°F (medium) |
6. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the broth, Worcestershire sauce, tomato paste, dried rosemary, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Pour this mixture over the lamb shoulder fillet in the slow cooker.
7. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low setting for 6-8 hours, or until the lamb is tender and easily pulls apart with a fork.
8. Once the lamb is cooked, remove it from the slow cooker and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
9. To serve, slice the cooked lamb shoulder fillet and spoon some of the vegetables and sauce from the slow cooker over it. Serve with your choice of sides, such as roasted potatoes or steamed vegetables.
Enjoy your delicious slow-cooked lamb shoulder fillet!
Questions and answers
What is lamb shoulder fillet?
Lamb shoulder fillet is a cut of meat taken from the shoulder of the lamb. It is a tender and flavorful cut that is often used in slow-cooked dishes.
Can I cook lamb shoulder fillet in the slow cooker?
Yes, you can definitely cook lamb shoulder fillet in the slow cooker. Slow cooking helps to tenderize the meat and enhances its flavor. It is a great method for cooking tougher cuts of meat like lamb shoulder fillet.
What are some tips for cooking lamb shoulder fillet in the slow cooker?
When cooking lamb shoulder fillet in the slow cooker, it is important to sear the meat beforehand to lock in the flavors. This can be done by browning the meat in a hot skillet before transferring it to the slow cooker. Additionally, you can add your choice of seasoning and vegetables to enhance the flavor of the dish. Cook the lamb shoulder fillet on low heat for 6-8 hours or until it is tender and easily falls apart.
