Ground Lamb
Description
Ground lamb is a versatile and flavorful ingredient made from lamb meat that has been finely minced or ground. It's widely used in a variety of dishes across the globe, bringing a rich and distinctive taste to recipes. Ground lamb is available in different grades, depending on the amount of fat content, which can vary from lean to more marbled options. It is commonly sold in units of pounds (lbs) in the American system, or grams (g) and kilograms (kg) in the metric system used in Europe and elsewhere.
Common uses
Ground lamb is often used in meatballs, burgers, sausages, kebabs, and as a filling for stuffed vegetables or pastries. It's also a primary ingredient in moussaka, shepherd's pie, and various types of ragouts and stews.
Nutritional value
Calories
A 4-ounce (approximately 113g) serving of cooked ground lamb typically contains about 283 calories.
Protein
The same serving size has about 19.85 grams of protein, making it a good source for muscle building and repair.
Fat
Ground lamb can contain between 17 to 23 grams of fat per serving, depending on the fat content of the product.
Carbohydrates
Ground lamb is low in carbohydrates, with less than 1 gram per serving.
Vitamins
It is a good source of B vitamins, particularly vitamin B12, which is essential for nerve health and metabolism.
Minerals
Ground lamb is also rich in minerals like zinc, selenium, and iron, which are important for immune function and oxygen transport in the blood.
Health benefits
Due to its high-quality protein and vitamin B12 content, ground lamb can support muscle maintenance and the proper functioning of the nervous system. The presence of zinc and selenium also boosts immune health, while the iron content helps prevent anemia.
Potential risks
However, high consumption of ground lamb, especially fattier cuts, may be associated with an increased risk of heart disease and other chronic conditions due to its saturated fat content. Moderation is key, and leaner cuts can be a healthier choice.
Common recipes
Ground lamb is featured in recipes like Greek gyros, Indian keema, Middle Eastern kofta, and British shepherd's pie. It's also used in lasagna, tacos, and savory pies.
Cooking methods
It can be grilled, fried, baked, or broiled, and is often seasoned with garlic, onions, cumin, mint, and coriander.
Pairing with other ingredients
Ground lamb pairs well with root vegetables, grains like rice and couscous, yogurt-based sauces, and hearty greens such as spinach.
Summary
Ground lamb is a flavorful and nutritious meat option that can be used in a variety of culinary applications. Its rich taste and texture make it a favorite in many traditional and modern dishes. When using ground lamb, consider the fat content for both flavor and health implications, and balance its rich flavor with appropriate seasonings and complementary ingredients.