Melt-in-Your-Mouth Slow Cooked BBQ Goat Leg
Nutritional value per serving
Calories450kcal
Carbs3gram
Fat18gram
Protein55gram
Ingredients
- Goat leg (bone-in, skin removed, well-trimmed)2 kg
- Garlic cloves (fresh, peeled)6 piece
- Fresh rosemary (chopped)2 tbsp
- Smoked paprika2 tbsp
- Brown sugar (packed)1 tbsp
- Sea salt1.5 tbsp
- Black pepper (freshly ground)1 tbsp
- Vegetable oil (for searing)2 tbsp
- Apple cider vinegar3 tbsp
- BBQ sauce (your favorite)200 ml
- Onion (sliced)1 large
This recipe guides you through slow cooking a goat leg for tender, flavorful BBQ that's perfect for family dinners or gatherings. The method ensures the meat is juicy and safe to eat, with an internal temperature of at least 75°C (167°F). Total ingredient cost is approximately $25 USD / €22 / £19 / ₹1850. The dish contains around 450 kcal per serving, suits a low-carb diet, and has medium complexity. Cooking time is around 6 to 7 hours with 15 minutes preparation.
Preparation instructions
Prepare the Marinade and Season the Meat
1In a bowl, combine minced garlic, chopped rosemary, smoked paprika, brown sugar, salt, pepper, vegetable oil, and apple cider vinegar to form a marinade. Rub this marinade thoroughly over the goat leg, ensuring complete coverage. Then let the meat marinate for at least 1 hour in the refrigerator to infuse flavors.
Sear the Goat Leg
2Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a little oil. When hot, sear the goat leg on all sides until browned (about 3-4 minutes per side). Searing locks in the juices and adds flavor.
Prepare Slow Cooker with Onions
3Place the sliced onion at the base of your slow cooker. This acts as a flavorful bed to keep the meat elevated and prevents burning.
Slow Cook the Goat Leg
4Place the seared goat leg on top of the onions in the slow cooker. Cover and cook on low heat for 5 to 6 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 75°C (167°F) using a meat thermometer for accuracy. This low baking temperature slowly tenderizes the meat.
Apply BBQ Sauce and Final Cook
5Once the goat leg reaches the ideal temperature, brush it generously with your favorite BBQ sauce. Then cover and cook for an additional 30 minutes on low. This allows the BBQ glaze to set.
Rest and Serve
6Remove the goat leg from the slow cooker and let it rest for 10-15 minutes covered loosely with foil. Resting redistributes the juices for tender slices. Slice against the grain and serve with sides of your choice.
Cooking Tips
1Always use a clean meat thermometer to check the internal temperature and insert it into the thickest part, avoiding bone.
2To avoid cross-contamination, wash hands and utensils thoroughly after handling raw goat leg.
3For a spicier BBQ, add a teaspoon of chili powder or cayenne pepper to the marinade.
4Leftover cooked goat leg keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days when stored properly.
Equipment
- Slow cooker (Crock-Pot)
- Large skillet or frying pan
- Meat thermometer
- Sharp knife
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring spoons
- Tongs or spatula
- Aluminum foil
Grocery Shopping List
- [ ] Goat leg 2 kg (~$15): Choose fresh, firm meat with minimal bruising.
- [ ] Garlic cloves 6 pcs (~$0.50): Opt for firm bulbs without soft spots.
- [ ] Fresh rosemary (~$1.50): Pick vibrant green sprigs without yellowing.
- [ ] Smoked paprika (~$2 per jar): Adds smoky flavor, any variety is fine.
- [ ] Brown sugar (~$1): Standard grocery brown sugar works well.
- [ ] Sea salt (~$0.50): Fine grain salt is easy to dissolve.
- [ ] Black pepper (~$1): Freshly ground is best for flavor.
- [ ] Vegetable oil (~$1): Use neutral oil like sunflower or canola.
- [ ] Apple cider vinegar (~$2): For tenderizing and flavor.
- [ ] BBQ sauce 200 ml (~$3): Choose your favorite brand.
- [ ] Large onion (~$0.50): Yellow or white onions both work.
Total estimated cost: ~$27
Remember to check your pantry for spices and oil before buying!
FAQ
How do I know when the goat leg is fully cooked?
Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches at least 75°C (167°F). The meat should be tender and easily pull apart when done.
Can I use a different cut of goat?
Yes, but cooking times may vary. Goat shoulder can be slow cooked similarly, but smaller cuts may cook faster.
Can I marinate the goat leg overnight?
Absolutely! Marinating overnight enhances flavor and tenderness. Just refrigerate the meat while marinating.
Is it necessary to sear the meat first?
Searing is not mandatory but helps develop rich flavor and seals in juices, making the meat more delicious.