Lamb shoulder rewards time and gives exceptional value for a crowd; rack is faster and more elegant for a smaller gathering; mince is ideal for flatbreads and quick weeknight meals. The flavour is already distinctive, so the job of the cook is often simply to decide whether the mood calls for rosemary and garlic, or brighter flavours such as mint, lemon, harissa and salsa verde.

Meet the Producer24 August 2026
Meet the Ingredient: Irish Lamb
Buy the cut that suits the occasion.
By Sarah-Jane McGrath

Written by
Sarah-Jane McGrath
Founder, The Food & Drink Society
Recipes, wine advice and stories from Ireland's extraordinary food and drink scene.
