Lamb ribs are an underrated gem in the world of meat cuts. While beef and pork ribs often steal the spotlight, lamb ribs offer an incredibly rich flavor and tender texture when cooked properly. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or new to lamb, you’ll be surprised at how easy it is to prepare this delicious cut.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through three foolproof ways to cook lamb ribs, each delivering mouthwatering results with minimal effort. So, if you’ve never tried lamb ribs before—or just need some new cooking inspiration—keep reading!
Why Choose Lamb Ribs?
Lamb ribs are flavor-packed and versatile, making them a great option for weeknight dinners or weekend barbecues. Here’s why you should give them a try:
✅ Rich, Tender Meat: Lamb ribs have a natural marbling that keeps them juicy and full of flavor.
✅ Easy to Cook: With a few simple techniques, you can achieve restaurant-quality lamb ribs at home.
✅ Perfect for Many Cooking Styles: Whether you prefer grilling, roasting, or slow-cooking, lamb ribs adapt beautifully to different flavors and textures.
✅ Great for Experimenting: Lamb ribs pair well with bold spices, marinades, and sauces, allowing you to get creative in the kitchen.
Now that we’ve covered why lamb ribs are a must-try, let’s get into the three easiest and most delicious ways to prepare them!
1. Slow-Roasted Lamb Ribs (Oven Method)
Perfect for: Tender, fall-off-the-bone lamb ribs with a crispy exterior.
What You’ll Need:
- 2 lbs lamb ribs
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 cup beef or lamb broth
- 2 tbsp honey (optional, for glaze)
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 275°F (135°C). Low and slow is the key to tender lamb ribs.
- Prepare the ribs: Pat the lamb ribs dry with a paper towel. Coat them with olive oil and season generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and oregano.
- Arrange in a baking dish: Place the ribs in a roasting pan or baking dish, meat side up.
- Add moisture: Pour the beef or lamb broth into the pan to keep the ribs juicy while cooking.
- Cover and bake: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 2.5 to 3 hours until the meat is tender and pulls away easily from the bone.
- Optional glaze: For a touch of sweetness, brush the ribs with honey in the last 10 minutes of cooking.
- Serve and enjoy! Pair with roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes for a hearty meal.
Pro Tip: If you want a crispier finish, remove the foil in the last 20 minutes and increase the oven temperature to 400°F (200°C) for a nice golden crust.
2. Grilled Lamb Ribs (BBQ Method)
Perfect for: Smoky, charred ribs with crispy edges and juicy meat.
What You’ll Need:
- 2 lbs lamb ribs
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp cumin
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat your grill to medium heat (about 300-350°F).
- Season the ribs: Rub olive oil over the lamb ribs, then coat with salt, pepper, cumin, and chili powder.
- Wrap in foil and grill: Wrap the ribs in foil and place them on the grill for 1.5 to 2 hours, flipping occasionally.
- Unwrap and caramelize: Remove the foil, brush the ribs with honey and apple cider vinegar, and return them to the grill.
- Char over direct heat: Increase the heat and grill for another 5-10 minutes, flipping occasionally to get a nice charred crust.
- Optional BBQ glaze: If using BBQ sauce, brush it on in the last few minutes of grilling.
- Rest and serve: Let the ribs rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
Pro Tip: Use wood chips (like hickory or mesquite) in your grill for an extra smoky flavor.
3. Braised Lamb Ribs (Slow Cooker Method)
Perfect for: Rich, fall-apart tender ribs with deep flavors.
What You’ll Need:
- 2 lbs lamb ribs
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef or lamb broth
- 1 can diced tomatoes (14 oz)
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 1 tsp rosemary
- 1 tsp thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Season the ribs: Rub lamb ribs with salt, pepper, and olive oil.
- Sear for flavor: Heat a pan over medium-high heat and sear the ribs for 2-3 minutes per side until browned.
- Layer in slow cooker: Place sliced onions and minced garlic at the bottom of the slow cooker. Add the ribs on top.
- Add liquid: Pour in the broth, diced tomatoes, Worcestershire sauce, balsamic vinegar, rosemary, and thyme.
- Cook low and slow: Cover and cook on LOW for 6-8 hours or HIGH for 4-5 hours until the ribs are tender and falling off the bone.
- Serve and enjoy! These pair beautifully with rice, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread.
Pro Tip: For a richer sauce, remove the ribs and simmer the cooking liquid on the stovetop for 10 minutes until thickened.
Final Thoughts: Lamb Ribs Are Easier Than You Think!
As you can see, cooking lamb ribs is easy, whether you prefer slow-roasting, grilling, or braising. Each method brings out a different texture and flavor, making lamb ribs a versatile addition to your meal rotation.
Want to try lamb ribs for yourself? Twisted V Market has premium-quality, pasture-raised lamb ribs for the best flavor and tenderness. Come visit us and stock up today!
Which cooking method are you excited to try first? Let us know in the comments!