Discover how to prepare Mechoui, a flavorful roast lamb or goat dish traditionally enjoyed during special occasions. This easy-to-follow recipe highlights the key ingredients and cooking techniques to achieve tender, juicy meat with a deliciously spiced crust. Perfect for celebrations or gatherings, Mechoui brings a taste of authentic Middle Eastern cuisine to your table.

Ingredients:

- 1 whole lamb or goat (about 4-6 kg), cleaned and prepared

- 4 cloves garlic, minced

- 2 tablespoons ground cumin

- 2 tablespoons ground coriander

- 1 tablespoon paprika

- 1 tablespoon ground black pepper

- 1 tablespoon ground turmeric

- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon

- 1 tablespoon salt (adjust to taste)

- 1 cup olive oil

- Juice of 2 lemons

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

Instructions:

Prepare the Marinade:

  - In a bowl, mix garlic, cumin, coriander, paprika, black pepper, turmeric, cinnamon, and salt.

  - Add olive oil and lemon juice to create a paste.

Marinate the Meat:

  - Rub the spice paste all over the lamb or goat, making sure to cover it evenly.

  - For best results, marinate the meat in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or overnight for a more intense flavor.

Preheat the Oven:

  - Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).

Roast the Meat:

  - Place the marinated meat on a rack in a roasting pan.

  - Roast in the preheated oven for approximately 2.5 to 3 hours, or until the meat reaches the desired level of tenderness. Baste occasionally with the drippings.

Rest and Serve:

  - Once done, remove the meat from the oven and let it rest for 15 minutes before carving.

  - Garnish with fresh herbs and serve with your favorite sides.

Enjoy your Mechoui as a centerpiece for any special occasion or festive gathering!

Nutritional Value

Lamb or Goat Meat

 - Calories: 250-300 kcal

 - Protein: 25-30g

 - Fat: 20-25g

 - Iron: 2.5-3mg

 - Vitamin B12: 2.5 µg

Benefits:

 - High Protein Content: Supports muscle growth and repair.

 - Rich in Iron: Essential for oxygen transport in the blood.

 - Vitamin B12: Important for nerve function and red blood cell formation.

Garlic

 - Calories: 149 kcal

 - Protein: 6.4g

 - Fat: 0.5g

 - Carbohydrates: 33g

 - Vitamin C: 31.2 mg

 - Manganese: 1.7 mg

Benefits:

 - Anti-Inflammatory Properties: Helps reduce inflammation.

 - Immune Boosting: Enhances immune function.

 - Rich in Antioxidants: Protects cells from damage.

Ground Cumin

 - Calories: 375 kcal

 - Protein: 17g

 - Fat: 22g

 - Carbohydrates: 44g

 - Iron: 66.36 mg

Benefits:

 - Rich in Iron: Supports healthy red blood cells.

 - Digestive Health: Aids in digestion and reduces bloating.

 - Antioxidant Properties: Helps fight oxidative stress.

Ground Coriander

 - Calories: 298 kcal

 - Protein: 12g

 - Fat: 14g

 - Carbohydrates: 55g

 - Vitamin C: 27 mg

Benefits:

 - Anti-Microbial: Helps fight off infections.

 - Digestive Health: Eases digestive issues and supports gut health.

 - Rich in Antioxidants: Protects against cellular damage.

Paprika

 - Calories: 282 kcal

 - Protein: 14g

 - Fat: 13g

 - Carbohydrates: 56g

 - Vitamin A: 15,000 IU

Benefits:

 - High in Vitamin A: Supports vision and immune function.

 - Anti-Inflammatory: Reduces inflammation and pain.

 - Antioxidant Properties: Protects cells from damage.

Ground Black Pepper

 - Calories: 255 kcal

 - Protein: 10g

 - Fat: 3.3g

 - Carbohydrates: 64g

 - Vitamin K: 163 µg

Benefits:

 - Digestive Health: Stimulates digestion and nutrient absorption.

 - Anti-Bacterial: Helps combat harmful bacteria.

 - Rich in Antioxidants: Protects against oxidative stress.

Ground Turmeric

 - Calories: 354 kcal

 - Protein: 7.8g

 - Fat: 9.9g

 - Carbohydrates: 64g

 - Vitamin C: 0.7 mg

Benefits:

 - Anti-Inflammatory: Reduces inflammation and joint pain.

 - Antioxidant: Protects cells from damage and supports overall health.

 - Supports Digestion: Aids in digestive health and liver function.

Ground Cinnamon

 - Calories: 247 kcal

 - Protein: 4g

 - Fat: 1g

 - Carbohydrates: 81g

 - Calcium: 1000 mg

Benefits:

 - Anti-Inflammatory: Reduces inflammation and may help with pain management.

 - Blood Sugar Control: Helps regulate blood sugar levels.

 - Rich in Antioxidants: Protects cells from damage and supports overall health.

Olive Oil

 - Calories: 884 kcal

 - Protein: 0g

 - Fat: 100g (mostly monounsaturated)

 - Carbohydrates: 0g

 - Vitamin E: 14 mg

Benefits:

 - Heart Health: Supports heart health by reducing LDL cholesterol.

 - Anti-Inflammatory: Reduces inflammation in the body.

 - Rich in Antioxidants: Protects cells and supports overall health.

Lemon Juice

 - Calories: 22 kcal

 - Protein: 0.4g

 - Fat: 0.2g

 - Carbohydrates: 6g

 - Vitamin C: 53 mg

Benefits:

 - Immune Support: High in Vitamin C, boosts immune function.

 - Digestive Health: Aids in digestion and detoxification.

 - Antioxidant Properties: Protects cells from damage.

Incorporating these ingredients into your Mechoui not only enhances the flavor but also adds various health benefits to your meal.