Roasted Coffee Marinated Leg of Lamb

One of the primary reasons I started blogging was for all the folks that have approached me at the Durham Farmers Market with such wonderful lamb recipes. There has been a tremendous interest in "sharing" the recipes and I too am excited to hear and try all these mouth watering ideas.

This post is to share one of our legendary lamb favorites!

My family was lucky to have known and loved the renowned chef, Louis Osteen. Two of my sisters actually worked for the Osteen’s. One of my sisters was super lucky to work alongside him in his kitchen. It was quite an experience for her and we still recall many of Louis’ best recipes. For me personally, when she recreates his masterpieces it’s as if she channels him. She knew his tricks, if you will…I mean he taught her.

She knew this recipe long before I was raising sheep. Now the joke is I often forget to give credit where credit is due. I use this recipe so often, whether sharing it or cooking it. I’ve converted folks to the love of lamb with this recipe. I don’t mind saying with full assurance, you will NOT be disappointed!

with out further ado…here is the recipe. I realize measurements aren’t clear. Just know your looking for about 2 cups of marinade. The measurements will accumulate quickly. the ground coffee is 1/4 cup and the red wine, olive oil and coffee take up most of the liquid space. Just begin, it will make sense and it's also very forgiving!

Roasted Coffee Marinated Leg of Lamb:
1. S&P entire leg
2. Mix marinade:
· Coffee beans, roasted under broiler unitl crisp…be careful they burn easily. Grindcoarse,not fine, ¼ c
· Fresh Rosemary LOTS, chopped
· Coarse ground Mustard
· Very dark brewed coffee, expresso if possible
· Red wine
· Garlic, LOTS
· Olive Oil
Combine all in food processor to yield about 2C. Coat lamb w/ paste and pour liquids over. Marinade for at least 2 hours.
Grill. IMO, your looking for about 130°

Excuse me, my mouth is watering. I’m going to fire up the grill now. You won’t be surprised to know I just so happen to have a leg of lamb!

And finally, to my dear sister, it is written, I am forever grateful that you shared this divine recipe with me