Lamb leg (shank half) is a popular cut of meat, known for its rich flavor and tender texture. Trimmed to 1/4" fat, roasted and cooked to perfection, a 1 lb raw meat with refuse will yield 1 piece (excluding refuse) with approximately 605 calories.

Not only is lamb leg delicious, but it is also loaded with essential nutrients like protein, vitamins, and minerals.

In this article, we'll explore the nutritional content of lamb leg, its health benefits, ways to cook it, serving suggestions, pairings, storage information, and tips for buying the best quality lamb leg possible.

Calories in Lamb Leg (Shank Half)

A 4 oz serving (yield from 1 lb raw meat with refuse) of lamb leg (shank half), trimmed to 1/4" fat, choice grade, cooked, roasted, contains approximately 242 calories. Depending on the size of the piece, the calorie count may vary slightly.

Fat Content of Lamb Leg (Shank Half)

A 4 oz serving of lamb leg (shank half), trimmed to 1/4" fat, choice grade, cooked, roasted, contains approximately 16.6 g of fat. Of this, 6.9 g is saturated fat, while the rest is made up of unsaturated fats.

Protein Content of Lamb Leg (Shank Half)

A 4 oz serving of lamb leg (shank half), trimmed to 1/4" fat, choice grade, cooked, roasted, contains approximately 22.7 g of protein. This makes it an excellent source of high-quality protein, which is essential for building and repairing muscle tissues.

Vitamins and Minerals in Lamb Leg (Shank Half)

Lamb leg (shank half) is a rich source of many essential nutrients, including iron, zinc, selenium, vitamin B12, and niacin. Iron is important for promoting healthy blood flow, while zinc and selenium help support immune function and protect against oxidative stress. Vitamin B12 and niacin are essential for promoting healthy brain function and metabolism.

Health Benefits of Lamb Leg (Shank Half)

Eating lamb leg (shank half) can have several health benefits, such as improving bone health, boosting the immune system, and aiding in digestion. It is also a great source of energy, making it an ideal choice for active individuals and athletes.

Ways to Cook Lamb Leg (Shank Half)

Lamb leg (shank half) can be cooked in several ways, including roasting, grilling, braising, and slow cooking. Roasting is the most popular method, as it brings out the rich flavor and tender texture of the meat. Try seasoning it with herbs like rosemary and thyme, and serve it with roasted vegetables for a delicious and nutritious meal.

Serving Suggestions for Lamb Leg (Shank Half)

Lamb leg (shank half) pairs well with many different flavors and ingredients. Some popular serving suggestions include serving it with mint sauce, mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a side salad. It is also a great addition to soups and stews, adding a rich and hearty flavor to the dish.

Pairings with Lamb Leg (Shank Half)

Lamb leg (shank half) can be paired with many different wines, depending on your personal taste preferences. For a classic pairing, try serving it with a full-bodied red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon or Syrah. If you prefer a lighter wine, Pinot Noir or Merlot also pairs well with lamb.

Storage and Shelf Life of Lamb Leg (Shank Half)

Fresh lamb leg (shank half) should be stored in the refrigerator at or below 40°F. It will keep for 3-5 days in the refrigerator, or up to six months in the freezer. To maintain the quality of the meat, it is best to wrap it tightly in foil or plastic wrap before storing it.

Tips for Buying Lamb Leg (Shank Half)

When buying lamb leg (shank half), look for meat that is firm, pink, and moist. Avoid meat that is discolored or has a strong odor, as this may indicate that it is past its prime. You should also check the sell-by date to ensure that the meat is fresh and hasn't been sitting at the store for too long.