
Tender and Flavorful Slow-Cooked Goat Leg
Nutritional value per serving
Calories450kcal
Carbs5gram
Fat20gram
Protein50gram
Ingredients
- Goat leg (bone-in, skin removed for less fat)2 kg
- Olive oil3 tbsp
- Garlic cloves (minced, fresh)6 pieces
- Fresh rosemary (chopped)2 tbsp
- Fresh thyme (chopped)2 tbsp
- Onion (medium, sliced)1 piece
- Carrots (sliced)3 pieces
- Potatoes (medium, quartered)4 pieces
- Salt (to taste)1 tsp
- Black pepper (freshly ground, to taste)1 tsp
- Red wine (optional, for deglazing)1/2 cup
- Beef or vegetable stock2 cups

This recipe guides you through slow-cooking a whole goat leg to achieve tender, juicy, and flavorful meat that's perfect for a comforting meal. Slow cooking breaks down the tough fibers of the goat meat, making it deliciously tender. The dish is not only flavorful but also nutritious, providing a good source of protein. The total cost of the ingredients is approximately $20 USD, €18, £15, and ₹1600. The recipe yields 6 servings with about 450 kcal per serving. It is suitable for a gluten-free diet. The cooking complexity is easy, requiring simple kitchen tools and common ingredients. Total cooking time is about 5 hours, including preparation.
Preparation instructions
Prepare the goat leg and marinate
1Rinse the goat leg under cold running water and pat dry. In a bowl, mix olive oil, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, thyme, salt, and black pepper. Rub this mixture over the goat leg to marinate. Cover and let sit for at least 1 hour or overnight in the fridge. This allows the flavors to penetrate the meat.
Sear the goat leg
2Heat a large frying pan over medium-high heat. Add a little olive oil. When hot, place the goat leg in the pan and sear all sides until browned, about 3-4 minutes per side. This step adds flavor through caramelization.
Prepare the slow cooker and vegetables
3Place the sliced onions, carrots, and potatoes in the bottom of the slow cooker. This base will catch drippings and infuse flavor.
Add the goat leg and liquids
4Place the seared goat leg on top of the vegetables. Pour beef or vegetable stock and red wine (if using) around the meat, not directly on top to keep the rub intact.
Slow cook the goat leg
5Cover the slow cooker with the lid and cook on low for 4 to 5 hours, or until the internal temperature of the goat leg reaches 75°C (167°F). Use a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the leg, avoiding bones. The meat should be fork-tender and easily pull away.
Rest and serve
6Once cooked, remove the goat leg from the slow cooker and let it rest covered loosely with foil for 15 minutes before slicing. This helps retain juices for tender meat. Serve with the cooked vegetables and pan juices.
Cooking Tips
1To avoid cross-contamination, always use separate cutting boards and utensils for raw meat and vegetables.
2If you don't have a slow cooker, you can use a low oven setting (around 140°C or 285°F) in a covered roasting pan, cooking for about 4-5 hours.
3For a richer flavor, marinate the goat leg overnight in the fridge.
4Make sure the internal temperature reaches at least 75°C (167°F) to ensure the goat meat is fully cooked and safe to eat.
Equipment Needed
- Slow cooker (or oven with a covered roasting pan)
- Frying pan for searing
- Meat thermometer
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Mixing bowl
- Spoon or brush for marinating
Shopping List
- [ ] Goat leg (2 kg) - Approx. $15. Choose a fresh, well-trimmed leg with firm flesh and no unpleasant odor.
- [ ] Olive oil (3 tbsp) - Approx. $0.50. Use extra virgin for the best flavor.
- [ ] Fresh garlic (6 cloves) - Approx. $0.30. Choose firm, unblemished bulbs.
- [ ] Fresh rosemary and thyme (2 tbsp each) - Approx. $2. Check for fresh green leaves without wilting.
- [ ] Onion (1 medium) - Approx. $0.50. Choose firm and dry-skinned.
- [ ] Carrots (3 pieces) - Approx. $0.75. Look for bright orange and firm carrots.
- [ ] Potatoes (4 medium) - Approx. $1.50. Choose firm potatoes without sprouts.
- [ ] Salt and pepper - Approx. $0.20. Use fresh ground black pepper for best taste.
- [ ] Red wine (1/2 cup, optional) - Approx. $1 if buying a bottle, or use cooking wine.
- [ ] Beef or vegetable stock (2 cups) - Approx. $1. Use low sodium stock for better control of saltiness.
Total approximate cost: $20
FAQ
How do I know when the goat leg is fully cooked and safe to eat?
Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature; it should be at least 75°C (167°F). The meat will also be tender and easily pull away from the bone.
Can I cook the goat leg in an oven instead of a slow cooker?
Yes, you can slow cook the leg in an oven at a low temperature (around 140°C or 285°F) covered in a roasting pan for about 4-5 hours.
How can I avoid the goat meat smelling gamey?
Marinating the goat with herbs, garlic, and olive oil overnight helps reduce the gamey taste. Slow cooking with vegetables and wine also enhances flavor and reduces strong odors.
Should I remove the skin or fat from the goat leg before cooking?
Removing excess fat and skin can help reduce greasiness and gamey flavor, but some fat helps keep the meat moist during slow cooking.