Lamb Pot Roast with Oranges and Olives

A succulent boneless lamb shoulder braised with mandarin oranges, olives, and aromatic herbs in a flavorful mixture of wine, stock, and tomato purée. This Mediterranean-inspired dish creates a tender, flavor-packed roast perfect for special occasions.

8 servings
12 hr 20 min

Ingredients

  • 1 whole boneless lamb shoulder
  • 1 to taste Kosher salt and pepper
  • 6 cloves garlic
  • 2 whole mandarin oranges
  • 1 cup black olives
  • 2 tablespoons savory or rosemary
  • 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • cups beef stock
  • cups dry red wine
  • 1 cup tomato purée

Cooking Instructions

  1. 1.

    Holding knife parallel to work surface, cut lamb lengthwise, following seam where bone was removed and stopping about 1/2" before you get all the way through. Open lamb like a book and season all over with salt and pepper. Close, wrap tightly in plastic, and chill at least 8 hours.

    480 min

  2. 2.

    Preheat oven to 400°F. Open lamb and arrange garlic on bottom half, leaving a 1" border. Top with orange slices and olives. Sprinkle with savory and red pepper flakes. Close lamb and tie at 1" intervals with kitchen twine.

    15 min

  3. 3.

    Place lamb on a wire rack set inside a large rimmed baking sheet. Roast until nicely browned, 30-40 minutes. Remove lamb from oven.

    35 min

  4. 4.

    Reduce oven temperature to 300°F. Carefully transfer lamb to a large heavy ovenproof pot and add stock, wine, and tomato purée. Cover and braise lamb, basting with braising liquid every 30 minutes, until golden brown and fork-tender, 2 1/2-3 hours. Season with salt and pepper, if needed.

    180 min

  5. 5.

    Transfer lamb to a cutting board and let rest at least 30 minutes before slicing. Serve with braising liquid.

    30 min

  6. 6.

    DO AHEAD: Lamb can be seasoned 1 day ahead; keep chilled. Lamb can be braised 2 days ahead; cover and chill.