I still remember the first time I tried to reinvent leftovers. I had a fridge full of Sunday roast lamb staring at me, and I didn’t want to eat the same meal twice. That’s when I stumbled across Jamie Oliver’s leftover lamb wrap idea. It felt like magic-turning something ordinary into a fresh, exciting meal in minutes.
This recipe is perfect for anyone who:
- Hates wasting food
- Loves quick, satisfying meals
- Enjoys a mix of flavors and textures
If you’ve ever felt uninspired by leftovers, this wrap will change the way you see them.
Jamie Oliver’s Leftover Lamb Wraps Recipe
I remember making these wraps for a group of friends who didn’t even like lamb. By the time I unwrapped the last one, they were asking for seconds. It’s simple, flavorful, and endlessly adaptable.
The recipe is about layering tastes and textures: tender lamb, fresh vegetables, tangy yogurt, and soft, warm wraps. Each bite feels like a tiny celebration of flavors.
Ingredients Needed
The first time I gathered everything, I realized how pantry-friendly this recipe is. You probably have most of these items at home.
- Leftover lamb (about 300-400g, shredded or thinly sliced)
- Large wraps or flatbreads
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 handful of fresh mint leaves
- 1 handful of fresh coriander leaves
- 1 small cucumber, sliced or shredded
- 2 tablespoons of plain yogurt
- 1 teaspoon of harissa or chili paste (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for drizzling
- Lemon wedge for squeezing
Optional extras:
- Feta cheese crumbles
- Pickled vegetables
- Avocado slices
How To Make Jamie Oliver’s Leftover Lamb Wraps
I remember the first time I made these with my younger sibling in the kitchen. We argued about the order of layering, and it ended up being more fun than cooking.
Here’s a simple way to assemble your wraps:
- Warm the lamb – Heat your leftover lamb gently in a pan with a tiny splash of olive oil. Add salt and pepper.
- Prepare the veggies – Thinly slice the onion and cucumber. Tear the mint and coriander leaves.
- Warm the wraps – Use a dry pan or oven to make the wraps soft and pliable.
- Layer – Spread yogurt on each wrap. Add lamb, vegetables, herbs, and a drizzle of harissa if you like spice.
- Wrap it up – Fold the bottom, then the sides, creating a neat pocket.
- Serve immediately – Squeeze a little lemon over each wrap for brightness.
Ingredient Science Spotlight
I love diving into why certain ingredients work so well together.
- Lamb – Rich in protein and iron. Slow-cooked flavors intensify after refrigeration.
- Mint and coriander – Provide aromatic freshness that cuts through the richness of lamb.
- Yogurt – Its acidity tenderizes the meat slightly and balances the spices.
- Harissa – Adds heat and complexity. The capsaicin in chili stimulates taste buds for a more intense flavor experience.
Understanding the science behind ingredients makes cooking feel like an experiment rather than a chore.
Expert Tips
I’ve learned a few tricks over the years that make these wraps shine:
- Don’t overheat the lamb. Gentle warming preserves its tenderness.
- Slice veggies thinly for easy bites.
- Let wraps rest wrapped in a towel for a minute after warming-keeps them soft.
- Experiment with herbs. Parsley or dill can add a new dimension.
Recipe Variations
I once tried a ’Mediterranean twist’ for a potluck and it stole the show. You can play around with this recipe endlessly:
- Mediterranean style – Add roasted red peppers, feta, and olives.
- Spicy kick – Increase harissa or add fresh chili slices.
- Green wrap – Swap plain yogurt for tzatziki and add extra cucumber.
- Cheesy indulgence – Add shredded mozzarella or feta for a richer flavor.
Final Words
The first time I made this, I realized leftover meals don’t have to be boring. With just a few thoughtful touches, lamb from yesterday can feel brand new today. These wraps are quick, customizable, and always satisfying.
FAQs
Can I Use Any Kind Of Lamb For The Leftover Lamb Wraps?
Yes, you can use any cooked lamb you have left over. Roast lamb or even grilled lamb works great!
What Vegetables Should I Use In The Lamb Wraps?
You can add whatever veggies you like! Jamie suggests things like lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, and onions for a fresh crunch.
How Do I Make The Wraps Extra Flavorful?
A drizzle of yogurt, a sprinkle of herbs, and some hot sauce can really amp up the flavor of your lamb wraps!