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Kuzu Tandir (Turkish Roasted Lamb) Recipe

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4.4 from 64 reviews

Kuzu Tandir is a traditional Turkish roasted lamb dish featuring a bone-in leg of lamb slow-cooked to tender perfection with olive oil, fresh thyme, salt, and black pepper. The slow roasting method infuses the meat with aromatic herbs, producing juicy, flavorful lamb perfect for a hearty meal.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 2.3 kilograms lamb leg, bone-in
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 teaspoons salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 5 sprigs fresh thyme

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 160°C (320°F) to prepare for slow roasting the lamb.
  2. Prepare the Lamb: Rub the lamb leg thoroughly with olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Make sure to coat the meat evenly to enhance the flavor.
  3. Add Thyme: Place the 5 sprigs of fresh thyme on and around the lamb leg, allowing the herbs to impart their aroma during roasting.
  4. Roast the Lamb: Place the lamb in a roasting pan or dish. Cover it loosely with foil to retain moisture and roast in the preheated oven for approximately 3 to 3.5 hours, until the meat is tender and easily pulls away from the bone.
  5. Rest the Meat: Remove the lamb from the oven and let it rest covered for about 15 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, ensuring a moist and flavorful final dish.
  6. Serve: Carve the lamb into portions and serve with your choice of sides, such as rice pilaf, roasted vegetables, or flatbread for a complete Turkish-inspired meal.

Notes

  • Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; the internal temperature should reach at least 70°C (160°F) for medium doneness.
  • Covering the lamb while roasting helps keep it moist and tender.
  • Fresh thyme can be substituted with dried thyme but reduce the amount to 1 teaspoon.
  • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • This dish pairs excellently with grilled vegetables and yogurt sauces.