Jamie Oliver’s Lamb Heart recipe is a unique and flavorful way to enjoy offal, highlighting the tender, meaty flavor of lamb hearts. This dish is slow-cooked to perfection with aromatic herbs and spices, making it tender, rich, and deeply satisfying. Served with potatoes, root vegetables, or crusty bread, it’s a comforting meal that showcases the versatility of lamb.
What is Jamie Oliver’s Lamb Heart Recipe?
Jamie Oliver’s Lamb Heart recipe features lamb hearts cooked slowly with aromatic vegetables, fresh herbs, and a splash of red wine or stock. The long cooking time ensures that the meat becomes tender and absorbs all the rich flavors, creating a dish that’s both hearty and nutritious.
Other Popular Recipes
- Hairy Bikers Roasted Vegetable Lasagne
- Jamie Oliver Potato And Leek Gratin
- Mary Berry Potato And Leek Gratin
Why You Should Try This Recipe
- Rich and Flavorful: Slow cooking enhances the depth of flavor.
- Nutritious: Lamb hearts are a rich source of iron, protein, and essential nutrients.
- Great for Adventurous Eaters: Perfect for those looking to try something new.
- Budget-Friendly: Offal cuts are typically affordable and versatile.
- Hearty and Comforting: Perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients Needed to Make Jamie Oliver’s Lamb Heart
For the Lamb Heart Dish
- 4 Lamb Hearts: Cleaned and trimmed; lamb hearts are smaller and tender.
- 2 tbsp Olive Oil: For browning the hearts and vegetables.
- 1 Onion (chopped): Adds sweetness and flavor.
- 2 Carrots (sliced): Adds color and natural sweetness.
- 2 Celery Stalks (sliced): Adds a mild aromatic flavor.
- 3 Garlic Cloves (minced): Adds depth of flavor.
- 2 Bay Leaves: For aromatic seasoning.
- 2 sprigs Fresh Thyme (or 1/2 tsp dried thyme): Add herbaceous notes.
- 250ml (1 cup) Red Wine or Beef Stock: Adds richness to the dish.
- 250ml (1 cup) Beef or Chicken Stock: Forms the base of the sauce.
- Salt and Black Pepper (to taste): For seasoning.
Optional Garnishes
- Fresh Parsley (chopped): Adds a fresh, vibrant finish.
- Crusty Bread or Mashed Potatoes: For serving.
Instructions to Make Jamie Oliver’s Lamb Heart
Step 1. Prepare the Lamb Hearts
If not already cleaned, trim any fat or connective tissue from the lamb hearts. Rinse them under cold water and pat dry with paper towels. Season the hearts with salt and black pepper.
Step 2. Brown the Lamb Hearts
In a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the lamb hearts and brown them on all sides, about 4-5 minutes. Remove the hearts from the pot and set aside.
Step 3. Sauté the Vegetables
In the same pot, add the chopped onion, carrots, celery, and garlic. Sauté over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, until the vegetables are softened and slightly caramelized.
Step 4. Deglaze with Wine
Pour in the red wine (or beef stock if preferred), scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.
Step 5. Add Stock and Herbs
Return the browned lamb hearts to the pot. Add the beef or chicken stock, bay leaves, and thyme. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
Step 6. Slow-Cook the Hearts
Cover the pot with a lid and reduce the heat to low. Let the hearts simmer gently for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until they are tender and infused with the flavors of the broth and vegetables.
Step 7. Season and Serve
Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve the lamb hearts with crusty bread, mashed potatoes, or root vegetables.
What Goes Well With Lamb Heart
- Mashed Potatoes – Creamy and comforting, perfect for the rich sauce.
- Roasted Root Vegetables – Complements the earthy flavors of the dish.
- Steamed Greens – Adds freshness and balance.
- Crusty Bread – Ideal for soaking up the savory sauce.
- Pickled Vegetables – Adds a tangy contrast.
Expert Tips for Making the Best Lamb Heart
For the best lamb heart dish, keep these tips in mind:
- Clean the Hearts Thoroughly – Remove any connective tissue for a tender texture.
- Brown the Hearts Well – Browning adds depth of flavor to the final dish.
- Use Fresh Herbs – Fresh thyme and bay leaves enhance the aroma.
- Let the Dish Rest – Allowing the casserole to rest helps the flavors meld.
- Serve with Hearty Sides – Mashed potatoes or bread balance the richness of the hearts.
Easy Variations of Jamie Oliver’s Lamb Heart
Try these variations for different flavors and textures:
- Add Potatoes – Diced potatoes can be added to the pot for a heartier dish.
- Use White Wine – White wine can be used instead of red for a lighter flavor.
- Add Tomatoes – Diced tomatoes add acidity and extra depth.
- Incorporate Mushrooms – Sliced mushrooms add an earthy note.
- Add a Touch of Cream – For a richer sauce, stir in a bit of cream before serving.
Best Practices to Store Lamb Heart
- Refrigerate – Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freeze for Longer Storage – Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge.
- Reheat in a Pot – Reheat gently on the stove, adding a little broth if needed to prevent drying.
Nutrition Value (per serving)
- Calories: 280
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Protein: 28g
- Fat: 12g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 4g
FAQs
How Do I Clean Lamb Hearts Before Cooking?
To clean lamb hearts, trim away any fat, veins, and connective tissue from the exterior. Rinse the hearts under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels before cooking. This helps ensure a tender texture and removes any impurities.
Can I Cook Lamb Heart in a Slow Cooker?
Yes, lamb hearts can be cooked in a slow cooker. After browning the hearts and vegetables, transfer everything to the slow cooker, add the stock and seasonings, and cook on low for 6-8 hours or until the hearts are tender.
What Does Lamb Heart Taste Like?
Lamb heart has a mild, meaty flavor that’s similar to other cuts of lamb but is leaner and more tender. When slow-cooked, it becomes tender and absorbs the flavors of the herbs, vegetables, and broth, resulting in a rich and savory dish.
Can I Freeze Cooked Lamb Heart?
Yes, cooked lamb heart freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove before serving.
Final Words
Jamie Oliver’s Lamb Heart recipe is a beautifully tender, richly flavored dish that’s perfect for adventurous eaters. With its deep, earthy flavors and warming aroma, this lamb heart recipe is a unique and comforting option for any meal. Enjoy it with hearty sides like mashed potatoes or crusty bread for a satisfying and memorable experience.
More By British Baking Recipes
Print
Jamie Oliver Lamb Heart Recipe
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 120
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow cooking
- Cuisine: British
Description
Jamie Oliver’s Lamb Heart recipe features lamb hearts cooked slowly with aromatic vegetables, fresh herbs, and a splash of red wine or stock. The long cooking time ensures that the meat becomes tender and absorbs all the rich flavors, creating a dish that’s both hearty and nutritious.
Ingredients
For the Lamb Heart Dish
- 4 Lamb Hearts: Cleaned and trimmed; lamb hearts are smaller and tender.
- 2 tbsp Olive Oil: For browning the hearts and vegetables.
- 1 Onion (chopped): Adds sweetness and flavor.
- 2 Carrots (sliced): Adds color and natural sweetness.
- 2 Celery Stalks (sliced): Adds a mild aromatic flavor.
- 3 Garlic Cloves (minced): Adds depth of flavor.
- 2 Bay Leaves: For aromatic seasoning.
- 2 sprigs Fresh Thyme (or 1/2 tsp dried thyme): Adds herbaceous notes.
- 250ml (1 cup) Red Wine or Beef Stock: Adds richness to the dish.
- 250ml (1 cup) Beef or Chicken Stock: Forms the base of the sauce.
- Salt and Black Pepper (to taste): For seasoning.
Optional Garnishes
- Fresh Parsley (chopped): Adds a fresh, vibrant finish.
- Crusty Bread or Mashed Potatoes: For serving.
Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Lamb Hearts
If not already cleaned, trim any fat or connective tissue from the lamb hearts. Rinse them under cold water and pat dry with paper towels. Season the hearts with salt and black pepper.
Step 2. Brown the Lamb Hearts
In a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the lamb hearts and brown them on all sides, about 4-5 minutes. Remove the hearts from the pot and set aside.
Step 3. Sauté the Vegetables
In the same pot, add the chopped onion, carrots, celery, and garlic. Sauté over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, until the vegetables are softened and slightly caramelized.
Step 4. Deglaze with Wine
Pour in the red wine (or beef stock if preferred), scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.
Step 5. Add Stock and Herbs
Return the browned lamb hearts to the pot. Add the beef or chicken stock, bay leaves, and thyme. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
Step 6. Slow-Cook the Hearts
Cover the pot with a lid and reduce the heat to low. Let the hearts simmer gently for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until they are tender and infused with the flavors of the broth and vegetables.
Step 7. Season and Serve
Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve the lamb hearts with crusty bread, mashed potatoes, or root vegetables.
