Crispy slow-cooked goat leg on a serving platter with herbs

Crispy Slow-Cooked Goat Leg Delight

Crispy Slow-Cooked Goat Leg Delight
mediumstar
3 hour 30 mintime

Nutritional value per serving

Calories650kcal

Carbs5gram

Fat35gram

Protein60gram

Ingredients

Quantity
  • Goat leg (bone-in, skin on)1.5 kg
  • Olive oil3 tbsp
  • Garlic cloves, minced4 pieces
  • Fresh rosemary, chopped2 tbsp
  • Fresh thyme, chopped2 tbsp
  • Lemon zest1 tbsp
  • Salt2 tsp
  • Black pepper, freshly ground1 tsp
  • Vegetable stock or water250 ml
  • Onion, quartered1 piece

This recipe guides you through slow cooking a goat leg until tender and juicy, then finishing it off with a crisp, golden skin. Slow cooking ensures the meat becomes fork-tender, rich in flavor, and melts in your mouth. The finishing step in a hot oven or under a broiler gives you delectably crispy skin. The total cost of ingredients is approximately $25 USD / €23 / £20 / ₹1900. The dish yields about 4 servings with approximately 650 kcal per serving, suitable for those following a high-protein, moderate-fat diet. The recipe is of medium difficulty and takes about 4 hours including preparation and cooking time.

Preparation instructions

Preheat and Prepare Marinade

1Preheat your oven to 120°C (250°F). In a bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, chopped thyme, lemon zest, salt, and black pepper to create a flavorful marinade.

Marinate the Goat Leg

2Rub the marinade all over the goat leg, ensuring it gets into all the crevices. Cover with plastic wrap and marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This step allows the flavors to penetrate the meat.

Prepare for Slow Cooking

3Place quartered onion at the bottom of a sturdy roasting pan to infuse the goat leg with aromatics. Position the goat leg on top of the onions. Pour vegetable stock or water around (not over) the goat leg to keep the environment moist during cooking.

Slow Cook the Goat Leg

4Cover the roasting pan tightly with a lid or foil to trap in moisture. Place it in the preheated oven and slow cook for about 3 to 3.5 hours. The low temperature will tenderize the goat meat beautifully. Check the meat temperature at around 3 hours; it should reach at least 70°C (158°F) for safe consumption and tenderness.

Crisp the Skin

5Once tender, remove the foil and increase the oven temperature to 220°C (425°F). Roast the goat leg uncovered for an additional 20 to 30 minutes, or until the skin is golden and crispy. Keep a close eye to prevent burning.

Rest and Serve

6Remove the goat leg from the oven and let it rest, loosely covered with foil, for 15 minutes. This allows juices to redistribute for moist, flavorful meat. Slice and serve warm.

Cooking Tips

1Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature for both safety and perfect doneness.

2Avoid cross-contamination by using separate utensils and cutting boards for raw meat and other ingredients.

3If you want a smoky flavor, add a few chipotle peppers to the marinade or sprinkle smoked paprika.

4Leftover goat meat is fantastic in sandwiches or curries.

Equipment

  • Oven
  • Roasting pan with lid or foil
  • Meat thermometer
  • Mixing bowl
  • Basting brush (optional)
  • Kitchen tongs
  • Sharp knife

Shopping List

  • [ ] Goat leg (1.5 kg) - Approximately $15. Choose fresh meat with firm texture and pinkish color.
  • [ ] Olive oil (3 tbsp) - $0.50. Extra virgin olive oil is best for flavor.
  • [ ] Garlic cloves (4 pieces) - $0.20. Look for firm, plump cloves.
  • [ ] Fresh rosemary (2 tbsp) - $1. Fresh sprigs provide better aroma than dried.
  • [ ] Fresh thyme (2 tbsp) - $1. Choose vibrant green leaves.
  • [ ] Lemon (1 piece for zest) - $0.50. Look for firm and fresh skin.
  • [ ] Salt - pantry staple.
  • [ ] Black pepper - pantry staple.
  • [ ] Vegetable stock or water (250 ml) - $0.50 if using stock cube or fresh stock.
  • [ ] Onion (1 piece) - $0.30. Choose firm and dry-skinned onion.

Total estimated cost: $19.50

FAQ

Can I use a different cut of goat meat for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute with goat shoulder or leg cuts that your butcher may have, but cooking times might vary slightly depending on the size and bone structure.

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

Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature has reached at least 70°C (158°F), which is safe for goat meat and will also ensure tenderness.

Can I prepare this recipe without an oven?

Slow cooking often requires an oven or a slow cooker. You can use a slow cooker, cooking the goat leg on low for about 6-8 hours, then crisp the skin under a broiler or in a hot pan.

What side dishes go well with slow-cooked goat leg?

Roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad complement the rich flavors of the goat leg nicely.