Looking for something new to put between two slices of bread? Move over, turkey and ham! Lamb sandwiches are an unexpectedly versatile and flavorful meal option.
There’s a lamb sandwich for every taste, from slow-roasted and pulled lamb shoulder to quick and easy pan-fried lamb loin. Some celebrate global cuisines, while others stick to simple, classic pairings.
In this article, we’ll explore different lamb sandwich recipes and techniques, giving you a comprehensive overview of how to make some seriously delicious lamb sandwiches at home.
Slow-Roasted Lamb Sandwiches
For a truly unforgettable sandwich experience, slow-roasting the lamb is key. Slow roasting coaxes out all the flavor and creates incredibly tender meat whether you use a leg of lamb or a lamb shoulder.
To really enhance the lamb’s flavor, try rubbing it with rosemary, garlic, and balsamic vinegar before roasting. And to keep it moist and add another layer of flavor, slow cook it in beef broth or stock.
Sandwich Assembly and Toppings
The right toppings can take your slow-roasted lamb sandwich from good to gourmet. Chimichurri sauce adds a bright, herbaceous note, while caramelized onions provide a sweet and savory counterpoint.
As for bread, a tangy sourdough makes a fantastic base. Arugula or rocket adds a peppery kick, and pickled beetroot offers a sweet and sour tang that cuts through the richness of the lamb.
Pulled Lamb Sandwiches
Pulled lamb sandwiches are a delicious and versatile option for a quick lunch or a satisfying dinner. The slow cooker method is a favorite because it’s so easy to pull off (pun intended!).
Slow Cooker Pulled Lamb
I’m a big fan of the slow cooker method for pulled lamb. It’s relatively hands-off, and it gives you incredibly tender, fall-apart meat every time. You can use a bone-in or boneless lamb shoulder roast, depending on what’s available and your preference. Just toss the lamb in the slow cooker with your favorite seasonings and some broth, and let it do its thing!
Flavor Variations and Serving Suggestions
The beauty of pulled lamb sandwiches is that you can play around with the flavors. I love using Indian-inspired spices like turmeric, chili powder, and garam masala for a warm and fragrant twist. For a smoky kick, try mixing some chipotle peppers in adobo sauce into your mayo. Serve the pulled lamb on brioche buns, crusty baguettes, or even lettuce wraps for a lighter option. Roasted bell peppers, juicy tomatoes, and melted mozzarella cheese are also great additions.
Condiments and Toppings
Don’t forget the condiments! A dollop of tomato chutney adds a sweet and tangy note, while giardiniera brings a pickled and crunchy element to the party. And, of course, you can never go wrong with a creamy mayonnaise or aioli.
Lamb Sandwich with Tomato Chutney and Rosemary Goat Cheese
This isn’t your average lamb sandwich. The combination of flavors is, as one customer put it, “hauntingly delightful.” The sweetness and tang of the tomato chutney play off the creamy, herbaceous rosemary goat cheese in a way that’ll make you rethink what a sandwich can be.
Here’s how it comes together: We roast the lamb with plenty of rosemary and onion until it’s fall-apart tender. The tomato chutney is surprisingly simple, using canned diced tomatoes as a base, simmered down with spices and a touch of sweetness. For the rosemary goat cheese, we whip fresh rosemary into soft goat cheese until it’s perfectly infused.
We recommend serving this masterpiece on focaccia bread. The airy texture and slight chew are the perfect complement to the rich lamb and flavorful toppings. A handful of mesclun greens adds a touch of freshness and a satisfying crunch.
Wrapping Up
The best thing about lamb sandwiches is how versatile they are. You can use different flavors, toppings, and breads to create a sandwich that is perfect for you.
I encourage you to experiment with the recipes I’ve shared and try out some flavor combinations of your own. Don’t be afraid to add new ingredients and try different cooking techniques. After all, the best lamb sandwich is the one you created yourself!
Whether you prefer slow-roasted lamb, pulled lamb, or something else entirely, there are endless delicious ways to enjoy a lamb sandwich.