Crispy broiled goat leg served on a platter with herbs

Crispy Broiled Goat Leg: A Flavorful and Tender Feast

Crispy Broiled Goat Leg: A Flavorful and Tender Feast
mediumstar
45 mintime

Nutritional value per serving

Calories350kcal

Carbs2gram

Fat12gram

Protein45gram

Ingredients

Quantity
  • Goat leg, bone-in, skin on1.5 kg
  • Olive oil (choose extra virgin for best flavor)2 tbsp
  • Garlic cloves, minced (fresh for best taste)4 pieces
  • Fresh rosemary, finely chopped2 tbsp
  • Fresh thyme, finely chopped1 tbsp
  • Lemon juice, freshly squeezed1 tbsp
  • Salt (preferably kosher or sea salt)2 tsp
  • Black pepper, freshly ground1 tsp

This recipe guides you through broiling a goat leg until it is beautifully crispy on the outside and tender and juicy on the inside. Goat meat is lean and flavorful; broiling helps render the fat and develop a delightful crust. The total cost of ingredients is approximately $15 / €13 / £11 / ₹1200. The dish yields about 4 servings and has an estimated 350 kcal per serving. It suits those who follow a high-protein, low-carb diet. The recipe is of medium difficulty and takes about 10 minutes of preparation and 45 minutes of cooking. Food safety is emphasized with recommended internal temperatures and proper handling.

Preparation instructions

Prepare the goat leg marinade

1In a small bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, chopped rosemary and thyme, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix well to create a flavorful marinade. This step infuses the meat with herbs and enhances the taste.

Marinate the goat leg

2Place the goat leg in a large dish or resealable plastic bag. Pour the marinade over the meat, ensuring it is evenly coated. Cover the dish or seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight. Marinating tenderizes the meat and infuses it with flavor.

Preheat the broiler and prepare the pan

3Remove the goat leg from the refrigerator about 30 minutes before cooking to bring it to room temperature. Preheat your oven's broiler to high. Place a broiler pan or a wire rack on top of a baking sheet to allow fat to drip away. This setup promotes even cooking and prevents steaming.

Broil the goat leg - first side

4Place the goat leg on the rack with the skin side up and put it under the broiler about 10-12 cm (4-5 inches) from the heat source. Broil for 15 minutes to crisp the skin, watching carefully to avoid burning. This step develops a crispy crust.

Flip and broil the other side

5Using tongs and an oven mitt, carefully flip the goat leg to the other side. Broil for an additional 15 minutes. This will cook the meat evenly and start rendering fat on the underside.

Check internal temperature and continue broiling if needed

6Insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the leg without touching bone. Goat is safe to eat at a minimum internal temperature of 63°C (145°F) for medium doneness, with a 3-minute rest. If the temperature is below this, continue broiling in 5-minute increments, checking often, until the desired temperature is reached.

Rest the meat before serving

7Remove the goat leg from the oven and tent loosely with aluminum foil. Let it rest for 10 minutes. Resting allows juices to redistribute, resulting in tender, juicy meat.

Cooking Tips

1If you prefer spicier flavor, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika to the marinade.

2Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking, ensuring juicy goat leg every time.

3Do not cross-contaminate raw goat meat; use separate utensils and wash hands thoroughly.

4For extra crispiness, pat the skin dry with paper towels before applying the marinade.

5If broiler heat is very intense, move the meat further away to prevent burning.

Equipment

  • Broiler or oven with broiler setting
  • Broiler pan or wire rack with baking sheet
  • Meat thermometer
  • Mixing bowl
  • Measuring spoons
  • Tongs
  • Aluminum foil

Grocery Shopping List

  • [ ] Goat leg (1.5 kg) - Approx. $12. Choose fresh, firm meat with skin intact. Avoid any off odors.
  • [ ] Olive oil (extra virgin preferred) - Approx. $0.50 for required amount. Look for cold-pressed, fresh bottles.
  • [ ] Garlic cloves (4 pieces) - Approx. $0.20. Choose firm, plump cloves without sprouting.
  • [ ] Fresh rosemary and thyme (small bunches) - Approx. $1.50 total. Fresh herbs give best flavor over dried.
  • [ ] Lemon (1 piece for juice) - Approx. $0.30. Choose heavy, bright lemons.
  • [ ] Kosher or sea salt - Approx. $0.10 for required amount.
  • [ ] Black peppercorns or ground black pepper - Approx. $0.10.

Total approximate cost: $14.70

Tips: Buying meat at a trusted butcher is best. Opt for fresh herbs and use the best quality olive oil you can for enhanced flavor.

FAQ

How do I know when the goat leg is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the meat. The safe internal temperature for goat meat is 63°C (145°F) with a 3-minute rest before slicing and serving.

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?

Yes, you can substitute fresh herbs with dried ones, but use about one-third the amount as dried herbs are more concentrated in flavor.

How do I avoid cross-contamination when handling raw goat meat?

Always use separate cutting boards and utensils for raw meat and wash your hands thoroughly with soap and warm water before and after handling uncooked meat.

Can I marinate the goat leg for less than 2 hours?

While you can marinate for 30 minutes to 1 hour in a pinch, marinating for at least 2 hours or overnight yields the best flavor and tenderness.