Why do we eat mint sauce with lamb?

The tradition of serving mint sauce with lamb is believed to have originated in the Middle East, where mint is commonly used as a culinary herb. Mint has a refreshing and cooling flavour, which is thought to complement the richness of lamb meat. Additionally, mint is believed to aid in digestion, which may be why it is often served with fatty meats like lamb.

In the culinary traditions of many countries, including the UK and other parts of Europe, mint sauce is a common condiment for roast lamb. The sauce is typically made by blending fresh mint leaves with vinegar, sugar, and sometimes other ingredients like mustard or redcurrant jelly. The acidity of the vinegar and the sweetness of the sugar help to balance the flavours of the mint and the lamb.

The tradition of serving mint sauce with lamb has also been influenced by cultural and historical factors. In the UK, for example, lamb is a traditional dish for Easter and other festive occasions, and mint sauce is often seen as a part of this traditional meal. Additionally, the availability of fresh mint during the spring and summer months, when lamb is also at its best, may have contributed to the popularity of this pairing.

Overall, the tradition of eating mint sauce with lamb is based on a combination of culinary preferences, cultural traditions, and the complementary flavours and aromas of mint and lamb.