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Mechoui (Morocco)
An authentic recipe for traditional Moroccan Mechoui, highlighting the rich, tender perfection of slow-roasted lamb infused with cumin and butter.
Makes 8 servings
About this recipe
An authentic recipe for traditional Moroccan Mechoui, highlighting the rich, tender perfection of slow-roasted lamb infused with cumin and butter.
Ingredients
Main
Rub
Equipment
- Roasting pan Large enough to fit the lamb cut
- Heavy-duty aluminum foil For tight sealing during slow roast
- Carving knife and board
Instructions
-
Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
-
In a small bowl, mix the softened butter, minced garlic, cumin powder, salt, and paprika into a smooth paste.
-
Rub the spice and butter mixture thoroughly all over the lamb shoulder, ensuring it is well coated.
-
Place the lamb in a roasting pan and cover tightly with heavy-duty aluminum foil to trap the moisture.
-
Roast in the oven for 3 to 4 hours, removing the foil for the final 30 minutes to let the skin turn golden and crisp.
240 min -
Let the meat rest for 15 minutes before carving and serving with extra cumin and salt on the side.
Nutrition
Cooking Timeline
Recipe Scorecard
Expert Review
Verdict
A legendary Moroccan celebratory dish that delivers exceptional tenderness and rich, savory flavor.
Pros
- Incredible melt-in-your-mouth texture
- Simple ingredients
- Rich traditional flavors
Cons
- Requires long cooking time
AI Insights
An authentic recipe for traditional Moroccan Mechoui, highlighting the rich, tender perfection of slow-roasted lamb infused with cumin and butter.
Tips
- For a truly authentic touch, serve the carved lamb on a large platter surrounded by small bowls of cumin and coarse sea salt for dipping
- Let the lamb rest adequately before carving to lock in all the natural juices
- Use high-quality pasture-raised lamb for the best flavor profile
Substitutions
- Lamb shoulder → Leg of lamb
- Unsalted butter → Clarified butter (smne) for an authentic Moroccan flavor
Storage
Store leftover roasted lamb in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Pairing
- Moroccan mint tea
- Warm khobz (Moroccan flatbread) and roasted vegetables
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FAQ
What cut of meat is traditionally used for Mechoui?
What is served alongside Mechoui?
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