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Lamb has long been seen as the outsider, the black sheep of BBQ proteins if you will. It’s not as commonplace as beef brisket or pork shoulder when folks fire up their grills, but this lean and flavorful meat has a rich tradition in barbecues across the world. When done right, lamb offers a unique and exquisite taste that sets it apart from the more familiar smoky flavors of traditional barbecue. Yet, many at-home pitmasters shy away from it, thinking it’s too complicated or too gamey to please the crowd. This is where they’re missing out on an opportunity to truly surprise and delight their guests with the sizzle of something undeniably special.

Now, let’s get to the meat of the matter, as true appreciation for lamb requires us to delve deeper into its potential as a star on the grill. A common misconception is that lamb is tough and difficult to cook, but this could not be further from the truth. When given the right amount of attention and the correct preparation, lamb can melt in your mouth with incredible tenderness and pack a flavorful punch that will have your taste buds singing. The secret lies not just in the cooking technique, but in understanding the cuts of lamb that are best suited for barbecue.

First, we’ll need to talk about the cuts of lamb that you can pick from. The shoulder is perfect for slow and low cooking, as it has a decent amount of fat which will render down, creating a succulent result that falls right off the bone. Then there’s the leg of lamb, which is ideal for a more traditional roast, and when deboned, it’s fantastic for faster grilling. Lamb chops or riblets can also be treated much like their pork counterparts, with a quick sear over high heat to get that perfect exterior char while keeping the inside beautifully pink and juicy. These cuts each have their own unique qualities and, depending on your barbecue aspirations, can make or break your grilling game.

Now, the knowledge of how to season and marinate lamb correctly will set your barbecue apart. Unlike beef or pork, lamb is known for its slightly gamey flavor, which pairs beautifully with robust herbs and spices. Rosemary, thyme, oregano, garlic, and mint are traditional companions to lamb, but don’t be scared to toss in some spice! A little heat can highlight the meat’s rich flavors. Speaking of spice, a robust spicy BBQ sauce can take your lamb to the next level. The heat of the sauce cuts through the natural fattiness of the meat, balancing the flavors beautifully.

So for your next barbecue, consider lamb and wow your guests with something unexpected. You might just convert a few skeptics into die-hard fans of this delectable protein. To get you started, here’s a simple yet mouthwatering spicy BBQ lamb riblets recipe that you can try at home, whether you grill outdoors or in your kitchen.

Spicy BBQ Lamb Riblets Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 racks lamb riblets
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tsp fresh rosemary, chopped
• 1 tsp fresh thyme, chopped
• 1 cup spicy BBQ sauce (homemade or storebought)

Marinate Instructions:

1. Season the lamb riblets with salt and pepper.
2. In a bowl, combine olive oil, apple cider vinegar, minced garlic, rosemary, and thyme to create a marinade.
3. Place the lamb riblets in a large zip-top bag and pour the marinade over the meat.
4. Seal the bag, making sure to remove as much air as possible, and massage the marinade into the meat.
5. Allow the lamb to marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results.

BBQ Instructions:

1. Preheat your grill to a medium heat (about 350 degrees Fahrenheit).
2. Remove the lamb from the marinade and place it on the grill. Discard any leftover marinade.
3. Grill the riblets for 6–7 minutes on each side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 145 degrees Fahrenheit for medium-rare.
4. During the last few minutes of grilling, brush the spicy BBQ sauce onto the riblets liberally, coating them in a layer of spicy, smoky goodness.
5. Remove the lamb from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

Table of Nutritional Values (per serving):

Nutrient Value Calories 450 kcal Protein 24g Total Fat 35g Saturated Fat 15g Carbohydrates 5g Dietary Fiber 0g Sugars 4g

Now remember, the trick is to not fear the unfamiliar. Lamb can seem intimidating but with a bit of know-how and a splash of spicy BBQ sauce, it can become a show-stopping main course for your next outdoor gathering. The tenderness and rich flavors of grilled or barbecued lamb are truly hard to beat. Step out of the comfort zone of chicken and ribs, embrace the black sheep of BBQ proteins, and treat your taste buds to something extraordinary. Once you’ve mastered the techniques, lamb is indisputably a contender for the crown in the kingdom of BBQ delights. And for those adventurous enough to embrace this black sheep, the rewards are a culinary triumph that will have everyone talking and coming back for more.

Sources

• https://blacksheepfoods.com/
• https://agfundernews.com/black-sheep-foods-bags-5-3m-funding-from-agfunder-others-plant-based-lamb
• https://blacksheepfoods.com/pages/food-service
• https://www.themediterraneandish.com/lamb-kabobs/
• https://www.detroitnews.com/story/life/food/2020/03/25/lamb-classic-holiday-dish-easier-than-you-think/2899633001/