Ingredients
For the Lamb:
- 3-4 lbs Boneless Lamb Shoulder: Trimmed of excess fat.
- 1 tbsp Olive Oil: For searing.
- 1 tsp Sea Salt:
- ½ tsp Black Pepper: Freshly ground.
For the Greek Marinade & Braising Liquid:
- ½ cup Fresh Lemon Juice: (from 2-3 lemons)
- 6-8 cloves Garlic: Peeled and thinly sliced or minced.
- 2 tbsp Dried Oregano: (preferably Greek oregano)
- 1 tbsp Fresh Rosemary: Chopped (or 1 tsp dried).
- ¼ cup Olive Oil: Extra virgin preferred.
- 1 cup Chicken or Beef Broth: Low sodium.
- 1 Lemon: Thinly sliced (for layering, optional).
For Serving (Optional):
- Fresh Parsley or Dill: Chopped, for garnish.
- Feta Cheese: Crumbled, for garnish.
Instructions
- Prepare the Lamb: Pat the lamb shoulder thoroughly dry with paper towels. Season generously with sea salt and black pepper.
- Sear the Lamb (Optional but Recommended): Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear the lamb on all sides until deeply browned (about 3-5 minutes per side). This step builds a rich flavor crust. Transfer the seared lamb to the slow cooker.
- Prepare the Marinade: In a small bowl, whisk together the fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, chopped fresh rosemary, and ¼ cup olive oil.
- Add to Slow Cooker: Pour the lemon-herb marinade over the lamb in the slow cooker. Add the chicken or beef broth. If using, tuck the lemon slices around the lamb.
- Slow Cook: Cover the slow cooker with its lid. Cook on the LOW setting for 6 to 8 hours, or on the HIGH setting for 3 to 4 hours, until the lamb is incredibly tender and easily pulls apart with a fork. The internal temperature should reach at least 190-205°F (88-96°C) for optimal tenderness.
- Rest and Serve: Carefully remove the lamb from the slow cooker and transfer it to a large cutting board. Tent it loosely with aluminum foil and let it rest for 10-15 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring maximum moisture. Shred or slice the lamb as desired. Drizzle with the flavorful cooking liquid from the slow cooker.
- Garnish: Garnish with fresh chopped parsley or dill and crumbled feta cheese (if using) before serving.
Notes
- Searing for Flavor: While the slow cooker does most of the work, a quick sear of the lamb before adding it to the pot adds a crucial layer of flavor and a beautiful crust. Don’t skip it if you have the time!
- Bone-in vs. Boneless: A bone-in lamb shoulder will often yield more flavor and moisture, but a boneless cut is easier to handle and carve. Cooking times may vary slightly.
- Serving Suggestions: This Greek lamb is fantastic with classic sides like roasted lemon potatoes, rice pilaf, tzatziki sauce, or a simple Greek salad. The rich cooking liquid is excellent drizzled over any starchy side.
- Make Ahead: Like many slow-cooked dishes, this lamb tastes even better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-8 hours (Low) or 3-4 hours (High)
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Gluten-Free