Boodog-Inspired Lamb Ribs with Herbs
This dish captures the essence of Boodog, a traditional Mongolian method of cooking meat using heated stones, by slow-roasting lamb ribs with aromatic herbs and a hint of smokiness. The result is incredibly tender, flavorful ribs with a unique, earthy character.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1.5 kg Lamb ribs
- 1 large Onion(quartered)
- 1 head Garlic(cut in half horizontally)
- 3 Fresh rosemary sprigs
- 3 Fresh thyme sprigs
- 2 tsp Salt
- 1 tsp Black pepper
- 1 tsp Liquid smoke (optional)(for a subtle smoky flavor)
- 1/2 cup Water or broth(for the roasting pan)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Preheat your oven to 150°C (300°F).
💡 Tip: Low and slow cooking is key to tenderizing the lamb ribs. - 2
Pat the lamb ribs dry with paper towels. Season generously on all sides with salt and black pepper.
💡 Tip: Ensuring the ribs are dry helps the seasoning adhere better. - 3
Place the quartered onion, halved garlic head, rosemary sprigs, and thyme sprigs in the center of a large roasting pan. If using, mix liquid smoke with the water or broth and pour it into the bottom of the pan.
- 4
Arrange the seasoned lamb ribs on top of the aromatics in the roasting pan.
💡 Tip: Placing the ribs on top of the aromatics allows for better air circulation and even cooking. - 5
Cover the roasting pan tightly with aluminum foil or a lid. Roast in the preheated oven for 3 hours, or until the lamb is fork-tender and easily pulls away from the bone.
- 6
Once cooked, carefully remove the ribs from the pan. You can serve them as is, or for a slightly crispier finish, place them under a broiler for a few minutes until lightly browned.
💡 Tip: Be cautious when removing the foil, as steam will escape. - 7
Serve the lamb ribs hot, with the roasted garlic and herbs on the side. Spoon some of the pan juices over the ribs.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓The key to mimicking Boodog is the slow, moist cooking method that tenderizes the meat. The hot stones in traditional Boodog essentially steam and roast the meat simultaneously.
- ✓If you don't have liquid smoke, you can add a small piece of smoked paprika to the roasting pan for a subtle smoky note.
- ✓For an authentic touch, serve with a side of simple boiled potatoes or a fresh herb salad.
🔄 Variations
- Marinate the lamb ribs in a mixture of yogurt, garlic, and herbs for a few hours before roasting.
- Add other root vegetables like carrots or parsnips to the roasting pan during the last hour of cooking.
- Use a rack in the roasting pan to allow fat to drip away, for a slightly leaner result.