Lamb shoulder is a popular cut of meat that is flavorful and versatile. At 653 calories per pound, it's important to understand the nutritional value of this cut before incorporating it into your diet.

In terms of macronutrients, lamb shoulder is high in protein and contains small amounts of carbohydrates. As the title suggests, this cut is lean and trimmed to only 1/4" fat, making it a healthy choice for those watching their fat intake.

In this article, we'll delve into the nutritional content of lamb shoulder and provide tips on preparing, cooking, and serving this delicious cut of meat.

Fats in Lamb Shoulder

Despite the reputation of lamb as a fatty meat, the shoulder cut is relatively lean. Trimmed to only 1/4" fat, a 1 oz serving of lamb shoulder contains just 1.2 grams of fat. The fat that is present in lamb shoulder is mostly monounsaturated fat, which is considered healthy for the heart. Overall, lamb shoulder is a healthy choice for those watching their fat intake as long as it is trimmed of excess fat before cooking.

Carbohydrates in Lamb Shoulder

Lamb shoulder is a relatively low-carbohydrate food, with only 0.4 grams of carbs per 1 oz serving. This makes it a great option for those following a low-carbohydrate or ketogenic diet.

Proteins in Lamb Shoulder

Protein is an essential nutrient needed for growth and repair of the body. Lamb shoulder is a great source of protein, with 7.2 grams of protein per 1 oz serving. If you're looking to add more protein to your diet, lamb shoulder is a great choice.

Vitamins and Minerals in Lamb Shoulder

Lamb shoulder is a good source of several essential vitamins and minerals, including iron, zinc, and vitamin B12. Iron is important for the production of red blood cells, while zinc plays a role in immune function and wound healing. Vitamin B12 is essential for brain function and the nervous system. Incorporating lamb shoulder into your diet can help you meet your daily needs for these important nutrients.

Calories in Lamb Shoulder

At 653 calories per pound, lamb shoulder is a calorie-dense food. However, it is also a satiating food that can help you feel full for longer periods of time. Pairing lamb shoulder with plenty of vegetables can help balance out its calorie content and make for a satisfying and nutritious meal.

Lamb Shoulder Cuts

Lamb shoulder can be purchased as a whole cut or in smaller portions such as chops or shanks. The arm and blade are the most common sub-primal cuts of lamb shoulder. When buying lamb shoulder, look for meat that is a deep red color with plenty of marbling.

Preparing Lamb Shoulder

Before cooking, lamb shoulder should be trimmed of any excess fat or silver skin. It can be marinated for added flavor or simply seasoned with salt and pepper. Smaller portions such as chops or shanks can be grilled or braised, while the whole shoulder can be roasted in the oven.

Cooking Lamb Shoulder

Lamb shoulder can be cooked in a variety of ways, depending on the cut and desired level of doneness. Smaller portions such as chops or shanks can be grilled or braised, while the whole shoulder can be roasted in the oven. One popular method for cooking lamb shoulder is to slow-roast it with herbs and spices for a tender and flavorful meal.

Serving Lamb Shoulder

Lamb shoulder pairs well with a variety of sides, including roasted vegetables, potatoes, or rice. It also pairs well with bold flavors such as garlic, rosemary, or cumin. A simple salad or fresh herbs can be used to lighten up the meal and add brightness to the dish.

Lamb Shoulder and Weight Loss

Despite its calorie content, lamb shoulder can still be incorporated into a healthy diet for weight loss. Its high protein content and satiating properties can help you feel full and satisfied, while its low-carbohydrate content can help keep your blood sugar stable. Pairing lamb shoulder with plenty of vegetables and using healthy cooking methods such as grilling or roasting can help make it a healthy and enjoyable addition to your weight loss plan.