Instant Pot Lamb Shoulder Recipe

Introduction

Instant Pot Lamb Shoulder is a modern twist on a traditional dish, delivering tender, flavorful lamb in a fraction of the time it takes using conventional roasting methods. With the power of the Instant Pot, you can achieve perfectly cooked lamb shoulder with minimal effort and in much less time than slow roasting. This method locks in all the juices, making the lamb incredibly tender and succulent, while the rich herb and spice flavors infuse the meat beautifully.

Whether you’re hosting a family dinner, prepping a holiday feast, or simply craving a comforting meal, Instant Pot Lamb Shoulder will become a favorite in your kitchen. The recipe is straightforward, and the pressure cooking ensures that the lamb turns out just as tender and juicy as if it had been slow-roasted for hours. Plus, this quick and easy method is ideal for busy cooks or those who prefer less time spent in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love Instant Pot Lamb Shoulder

• Quick and Easy: The Instant Pot cuts down cooking time dramatically, making this traditionally slow-cooked dish ready in about 2 hours instead of 4-6 hours. This is a great option when you’re short on time but still want to enjoy a comforting meal.
• Tender and Flavorful: Cooking lamb shoulder under pressure allows the meat to become melt-in-your-mouth tender, while the rich seasoning creates a deep, satisfying flavor.
• Minimal Effort: With the Instant Pot doing most of the work, all you have to do is prepare the seasoning and let the machine handle the cooking. It’s a convenient way to cook a hearty meal with minimal prep.
• Juicy and Moist: The Instant Pot locks in moisture, preventing the lamb from drying out during the cooking process. This ensures a juicy and moist roast that’s perfect every time.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: The lamb shoulder yields plenty of servings, and the leftovers can be used in a variety of dishes, making it a fantastic option for meal prep or creating multiple meals throughout the week.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
• Servings: Approximately 6-8 servings
• Calories per Serving: Around 350-400 calories per serving, depending on portion sizes and side dishes.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 350-400 kcal
• Fat: 24-28g
• Carbohydrates: 5-7g
• Protein: 30-35g
• Fiber: 1-2g
• Sugar: 1-2g

Ingredients

For the Instant Pot Lamb Shoulder:

• 1 (4-5 lb) bone-in lamb shoulder
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest
• 2 teaspoons kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 cup dry white wine (or chicken broth)
• 1 cup low-sodium vegetable or chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste (optional, for richer flavor)

Special Equipment

While making Instant Pot Lamb Shoulder doesn’t require specialized tools, there are a few pieces of equipment that will help ensure smooth preparation and better results:

1. Instant Pot (Pressure Cooker): The key tool for this recipe. The Instant Pot combines the functions of a pressure cooker, slow cooker, and more, making it the perfect appliance for cooking lamb quickly and evenly.
2. Meat Thermometer: To check the internal temperature of the lamb and ensure it’s cooked to your desired level of doneness.
3. Sharp Knife: A sharp knife is essential for trimming any excess fat from the lamb and for carving the lamb once it’s done.
4. Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula: A silicone spatula or wooden spoon helps in stirring the ingredients in the Instant Pot without scratching the surface.
5. Basting Brush: For applying the herb and garlic mixture evenly onto the lamb, ensuring the seasoning is well-distributed.
6. Carving Knife: A sharp carving knife is essential for slicing the tender lamb once it’s finished cooking.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Lamb Shoulder

Start by trimming any excess fat from the lamb shoulder. Leave a thin layer of fat, as it will help keep the meat moist during cooking. Pat the lamb dry with paper towels to help the seasoning stick better.

2. Make the Herb and Garlic Rub

In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, rosemary, thyme, lemon zest, kosher salt, black pepper, ground cumin, and paprika. Stir until the mixture is well combined. The olive oil helps to create a flavorful rub that coats the lamb shoulder evenly.

3. Season the Lamb

Rub the herb and garlic mixture all over the lamb shoulder. Make sure to cover all sides and ends of the meat. For a more intense flavor, you can make small slits in the lamb and stuff the rub into these incisions. This allows the seasoning to penetrate the meat, infusing it with delicious flavors as it cooks.

4. Set the Instant Pot to Sauté Mode

Turn your Instant Pot to the sauté mode and allow it to heat up. Add a small amount of olive oil (or cooking oil of your choice) to the pot. Once hot, carefully sear the lamb shoulder on all sides. This should take about 4-5 minutes per side, until the lamb is browned and develops a nice caramelized crust.

5. Deglaze the Pot

Once the lamb has been seared, remove it from the Instant Pot and set it aside. Pour in the dry white wine (or chicken broth) and use a wooden spoon or silicone spatula to deglaze the pot. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot, as these add flavor to the cooking liquid and prevent the Instant Pot from displaying the “burn” warning.

6. Add the Broth and Tomato Paste

After deglazing, stir in the vegetable or chicken broth and optional tomato paste. The tomato paste adds a rich depth of flavor to the sauce, making the dish even more savory. Mix everything well and ensure the base of the pot is clear of any stuck-on bits.

7. Pressure Cook the Lamb

Place the lamb shoulder back into the Instant Pot, making sure it’s sitting in the liquid. Secure the lid on the Instant Pot and set the valve to “Sealing.” Select the “Pressure Cook” (or “Manual”) function and cook on high pressure for 1 hour and 30 minutes. For a more well-done lamb, you can extend the cooking time by 15-20 minutes.

8. Natural Pressure Release

Once the cooking time is up, allow the Instant Pot to release pressure naturally for 10-15 minutes. This ensures that the lamb retains its moisture and doesn’t become dry. After the natural release, turn the valve to “Venting” to fully release any remaining pressure.

9. Rest the Lamb

Carefully remove the lamb shoulder from the Instant Pot and place it on a cutting board. Let it rest for 10-15 minutes before carving. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring it remains moist and flavorful when sliced.

10. Serve the Lamb

Once the lamb has rested, use a sharp carving knife to slice the lamb shoulder into thick pieces. Serve the lamb with the delicious pan sauce from the Instant Pot, or you can make a quick gravy by thickening the broth using cornstarch or flour.

Tips for Perfect Instant Pot Lamb Shoulder

• Sear the Lamb: Don’t skip the step of searing the lamb in the Instant Pot before pressure cooking. Searing locks in flavor and helps create a beautiful crust on the lamb.
• Adjust Seasoning to Taste: Feel free to adjust the seasoning to suit your preferences. You can add more garlic, herbs, or spices like cinnamon or allspice to give the lamb a unique twist.
• Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs such as rosemary and thyme give the lamb a more vibrant flavor compared to dried herbs. If you need to use dried herbs, reduce the quantity by half.
• Add Vegetables for Extra Flavor: You can add vegetables like carrots, onions, and celery to the Instant Pot for added flavor and texture. Simply layer them around the lamb before sealing the pot. The vegetables will cook in the rich broth and add depth to the sauce.
• Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure your lamb is cooked to your preferred doneness, use a meat thermometer. Lamb is best served medium-rare to medium, which is an internal temperature of 130°F (54°C) to 140°F (60°C).

Variations of Instant Pot Lamb Shoulder

• Garlic and Herb Instant Pot Lamb: Add extra garlic cloves, rosemary, thyme, and parsley to the rub for a stronger herbaceous flavor. You can also stuff garlic and herbs inside the lamb for an added depth of flavor.
• Moroccan-Spiced Lamb: For a more exotic flavor, use Moroccan spices like cinnamon, cumin, coriander, and turmeric in the rub. Serve the lamb with couscous or a tangy yogurt sauce for a Middle Eastern-inspired meal.
• Lemon and Mint Lamb: Add lemon zest and a handful of fresh mint leaves to the rub for a zesty and refreshing twist on classic lamb flavors. This variation works particularly well with roasted vegetables and a side of couscous.
• Smoky BBQ Lamb: For a smoky flavor, brush the lamb with your favorite barbecue sauce during the last 10 minutes of cooking. The sauce will caramelize and create a sweet, smoky crust on the lamb.

Storage and Shelf Life

Instant Pot Lamb Shoulder is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored for later use. After the lamb has cooled, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can reheat the lamb in the microwave or in a low-temperature oven to keep it juicy and tender.

For longer storage, freeze the lamb. After carving, place the leftover lamb in a freezer-safe container or bag and store it for up to 2-3 months. To thaw, let the lamb defrost in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it in the oven or Instant Pot for a quick meal.

Side Dishes and Pairings for Instant Pot Lamb Shoulder

Pair this tender lamb with complementary sides to complete your meal:

• Roasted Vegetables: Carrots, potatoes, parsnips, and Brussels sprouts are fantastic sides that complement the rich flavor of the lamb. Roast them in the oven with olive oil, salt, and pepper for an easy, hearty accompaniment.
• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with roasted garlic make a perfect pairing with lamb. The smooth texture and subtle garlic flavor balance the rich, savory lamb.
• Couscous or Quinoa: Light and fluffy couscous or quinoa is an excellent side dish that can soak up the flavorful broth from the lamb. Add some fresh herbs or toasted nuts for extra texture and flavor.
• Green Beans Almondine: Sautéed green beans with toasted almonds and a squeeze of lemon will add a fresh, crisp contrast to the tender lamb.
• Greek Salad: A refreshing Greek salad made with cucumber, tomatoes, red onion, olives, and feta is a perfect contrast to the rich lamb. The tangy dressing enhances the flavors of both the lamb and the vegetables.
• Mint Yogurt Sauce: A cool and tangy mint yogurt sauce can be served on the side, providing a fresh, herby contrast to the lamb’s richness. It’s a perfect way to add a bright note to the dish.

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Conclusion

Instant Pot Lamb Shoulder is a game-changing recipe for anyone who loves lamb but doesn’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. By utilizing the power of the Instant Pot, you can enjoy a tender, juicy lamb shoulder in less than half the time of traditional slow-roasting methods. The rich herbs, spices, and savory broth infuse the meat with flavor, while the pressure cooking locks in moisture, ensuring that every bite is deliciously succulent.

Whether you’re preparing a special meal for a holiday or simply looking for a comforting dinner, this Instant Pot lamb recipe is sure to impress. With easy prep, quick cooking, and mouthwatering results, it’s a perfect way to enjoy a hearty, flavorful meal with minimal effort. Make this recipe your go-to for a delicious lamb dish that’s both practical and indulgent!