Discover the authentic flavor of Mechoui, a classic dish featuring a whole lamb roasted to perfection. This recipe guides you through the process of seasoning the lamb with a blend of aromatic spices and cooking it until tender. Perfect for special occasions and family gatherings, Mechoui delivers a savory, succulent experience that celebrates traditional culinary techniques. Ideal for those who love rich, flavorful meat dishes.

Ingredients:

- 1 whole lamb (about 10-12 pounds), cleaned and prepared

- 4 cloves garlic, minced

- 2 tablespoons ground cumin

- 2 tablespoons ground coriander

- 1 tablespoon ground paprika

- 1 tablespoon ground turmeric

- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper

- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

- 2 tablespoons salt

- 1/2 cup olive oil

- 1 lemon, juiced

- Fresh herbs (such as rosemary or thyme) for garnish

Instructions:

Prepare the Lamb: Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Rinse the lamb thoroughly and pat it dry with paper towels. 

Make the Marinade: In a small bowl, combine the garlic, cumin, coriander, paprika, turmeric, black pepper, cinnamon, salt, olive oil, and lemon juice. Mix well to form a paste.

Season the Lamb: Rub the spice paste all over the lamb, making sure to get it into all the crevices. For best results, let the lamb marinate for at least 2 hours or overnight in the refrigerator.

Roast the Lamb: Place the lamb on a rack in a roasting pan. Roast in the preheated oven for approximately 4-5 hours, or until the meat is tender and easily pulls away from the bone. Baste the lamb occasionally with its own juices to keep it moist.

Rest and Serve: Once the lamb is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 20 minutes before carving. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.

Enjoy: Serve the Mechoui with your favorite sides, such as couscous, salad, or flatbread.

This Mechoui recipe will bring a taste of traditional Middle Eastern cuisine to your table. Enjoy the rich, savory flavors of this roasted whole lamb dish with family and friends!

Nutritional Values 

Here is the nutritional information and benefits for each ingredient:

1 whole lamb (about 10-12 pounds), cleaned and prepared

 - Calories: Approximately 5,000 - 6,000 kcal (varies based on fat content)

 - Protein: Approximately 500 - 600g

 - Fat: Approximately 400 - 500g

 - Carbohydrates: 0g

Benefits:

 - High in protein, essential for muscle growth and repair.

 - Rich in various vitamins and minerals, including B vitamins, iron, and zinc.

4 cloves garlic, minced

 - Calories: Approximately 18 kcal

 - Carbohydrates: 4g

 - Sugars: 0g

 - Protein: 0.8g

 - Fat: 0g

Benefits:

 - Contains antioxidants and compounds that support immune health and may have anti-inflammatory properties.

2 tablespoons ground cumin

 - Calories: Approximately 16 kcal

 - Carbohydrates: 2g

 - Sugars: 0g

 - Protein: 0.8g

 - Fat: 0.8g

Benefits:

 - Adds a warm, earthy flavor. Contains antioxidants and may aid digestion.

2 tablespoons ground coriander

 - Calories: Approximately 12 kcal

 - Carbohydrates: 2g

 - Sugars: 0g

 - Protein: 0.5g

 - Fat: 0.5g

Benefits:

 - Adds a citrusy flavor. Contains antioxidants and may have digestive and anti-inflammatory benefits.

1 tablespoon ground paprika

 - Calories: Approximately 6 kcal

 - Carbohydrates: 1g

 - Sugars: 0g

 - Protein: 0.3g

 - Fat: 0.3g

Benefits:

 - Adds color and flavor. Contains antioxidants and may have anti-inflammatory properties.

1 tablespoon ground turmeric

 - Calories: Approximately 8 kcal

 - Carbohydrates: 1.5g

 - Sugars: 0g

 - Protein: 0.2g

 - Fat: 0.2g

Benefits:

 - Contains curcumin, which has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

1 teaspoon ground black pepper

 - Calories: Approximately 6 kcal

 - Carbohydrates: 1g

 - Sugars: 0g

 - Protein: 0.3g

 - Fat: 0.3g

Benefits:

 - Adds spice and has potential antioxidant properties.

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

 - Calories: Approximately 6 kcal

 - Carbohydrates: 2g

 - Sugars: 0g

 - Protein: 0.1g

 - Fat: 0.03g

Benefits:

 - Adds a warm, sweet flavor. Contains antioxidants and may help regulate blood sugar levels.

2 tablespoons salt

 - Calories: 0 kcal

 - Sodium: Approximately 4,600 mg

Benefits:

 - Enhances flavor. Sodium is essential for fluid balance but should be used in moderation.

1/2 cup olive oil

 - Calories: Approximately 960 kcal

 - Fat: 108g

 - Carbohydrates: 0g

 - Protein: 0g

Benefits:

 - Rich in monounsaturated fats, which are heart-healthy. Contains antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds.

1 lemon, juiced

 - Calories: Approximately 12 kcal

 - Carbohydrates: 3g

 - Sugars: 1g

 - Protein: 0.2g

 - Fat: 0g

Benefits:

 - Adds freshness and vitamin C. Supports immune health and may aid in digestion.

Fresh herbs (such as rosemary or thyme) for garnish

 - Calories: Negligible

 - Carbohydrates: Minimal

 - Sugars: Minimal

 - Protein: Minimal

 - Fat: Minimal

Benefits:

 - Adds flavor and freshness. Contains antioxidants and may have various health benefits depending on the herb.