“I’m a Butcher and these are the alternatives to lamb I recommend for Easter Sunday and their perfect pairings”

With Easter less than a week away, a butcher has recommended the best meat alternatives to have instead of lamb this Sunday

Easter Sunday, for some chocolate indulgence is the star of the show, but for others it’s the classic roast that brings together family and friends!

While lamb might be the traditional star of the show, exploring alternative options can add a delightful twist to your Easter table.

Jordan Hanley, Butchery Supervisor at online butchers, Campbells Meat, shares why he thinks families should try alternatives this Easter:

“Easter traditions are deeply rooted, but there’s always room for innovation. Considering alternatives to the classic lamb roast can infuse new energy into your Easter feast, sparking conversations and creating memorable experiences around the dining table.

“While lamb holds a special place in many hearts, exploring other options can lead to delightful discoveries. Whether it’s beef, poultry, game, or even vegetarian, the key is to select a meat that resonates with your guests and pairs harmoniously with your chosen accompaniments. Easter is a time for celebration, after all, and the meal should reflect that joy.”

Selecting the perfect Easter meat isn’t a decision to be taken lightly. Jordan suggests a variety of alternatives along with their ideal pairings to elevate your Easter Sunday dinner to new heights.

Lamb with a twist

Traditionally the cornerstone of Easter feasts, lamb offers a succulent and flavourful option for the main course. To add a modern twist, Jordan says to consider marinating your lamb in a zesty mixture of lemon, garlic, and herbs before roasting. This infusion of flavours will complement the natural richness of the meat, creating a memorable Easter dish.

Enhance the lamb’s succulence with a Minted Pea Purée. Simply blend fresh peas with mint, garlic, and a hint of lemon juice for a vibrant and refreshing accompaniment that perfectly balances the robust flavour of the lamb.

Venison

For an Easter feast that celebrates the bounty of the season, Jordan recommends incorporating game into your menu. Venison, with its rich and earthy flavour, offers a sophisticated alternative to lamb. Marinate the venison in a mixture of red wine, garlic, and herbs before grilling or roasting to perfection.

Pair the venison with a Cumberland sauce made from redcurrant jelly, port wine, and a hint of mustard for a sweet and tangy accompaniment that complements the robust flavour of the meat.

Beef

For those seeking a hearty and indulgent alternative to lamb, beef presents an excellent option. Jordan suggests opting for a well-marbled cut such as ribeye or sirloin for maximum tenderness and flavour. Roast the beef to perfection and serve with a classic horseradish cream sauce to enhance its rich and savoury profile.

To elevate the beef further, consider pairing it with a Red Wine Jus. Simmer red wine, beef stock, shallots, and herbs until reduced to a velvety consistency, imparting a depth of flavour that perfectly complements the succulence of the beef.

Chicken

For a lighter yet equally satisfying Easter option, chicken offers a versatile choice that appeals to a wide range of palates. Jordan says roast a whole chicken or opt for bone-in thighs for a juicier and more flavourful experience. Season with a blend of herbs and spices for an aromatic and succulent dish that delights the senses.

To accentuate the chicken’s natural flavours, serve it with a tangy Cranberry and Orange Compote. Combine fresh cranberries with orange zest, sugar, and a splash of orange juice for a vibrant and festive accompaniment that cuts through the richness of the poultry.

Vegetable Wellington

For those embracing a plant-based lifestyle or simply looking to incorporate more vegetables into their Easter feast, vegetarian options offer a delicious and nutritious alternative. Jordan advises to prepare a hearty Vegetable Wellington filled with a medley of seasonal vegetables, mushrooms, and lentils encased in flaky puff pastry for a satisfying main course that’s sure to impress.

Pair the Vegetable Wellington with a creamy Mushroom Gravy made from sautéed mushrooms, onions, garlic, and vegetable broth for a comforting and flavourful addition that enhances the earthy notes of the dish.

For the finest quality easter meat delivery, visit Campbells.