Lean, tender and quick to cook, lamb fillet is the choice when you want restaurant-style plates with weeknight effort. This boneless strip from the loin cooks in minutes—sear to a golden crust, finish briefly in the oven (if needed), then rest and slice across the grain for neat, blushing pieces. Keep seasoning simple—salt, pepper, rosemary and a knob of butter—or lift it with lemon and a green herb dressing. Also brilliant cut into strips for speedy stir-fries and skewers.
Why you’ll love it
Naturally tender and very quick to cook
Boneless and lean—perfect for elegant plates
Versatile: pan + brief oven, grill/BBQ, stir-fry or skewers
Butcher-trimmed for an even cook and tidy slicing
Cut details
From the lamb loin (often called backstrap/loin fillet), boneless
Lean cut; avoid overcooking to keep it tender
Size/weight varies by piece
Fresh, never previously frozen (unless stated on pack)
How to cook (quick guide)
Bring to room temp; pat dry. Season well (salt, pepper, rosemary/garlic if you like).
Pan + optional oven:
Sear in a hot pan 1½–2½ mins per side for colour; baste with butter.
For thicker pieces, finish at 180°C (fan 160°C)4–6 mins.
Grill/BBQ: High heat 2–3 mins per side, lid on to finish if thicker.
Centre temps (guide): Rare ~52–55°C, Med-rare 57–60°C, Medium 63°C.
Rest 5–8 mins, then slice across the grain. Tip: Because it’s lean, a quick marinade or butter baste helps juiciness.
Serving ideas
Garlic, rosemary & lemon with crushed new potatoes and greens
Mint salsa verde or chimichurri with grilled asparagus
Spiced fillet (cumin, paprika) sliced over couscous and yoghurt
Stir-fry strips with peppers, onions and a splash of soy–lemon
Storage & handling
Keep refrigerated below 5°C
Once opened, cook within 1 day
Suitable for home freezing on the day of purchase; defrost in the fridge and use within 24 hours
FAQs
Is lamb fillet the same as backstrap? Often, yes—loin fillet/backstrap refers to the boneless loin strip.
Can I cook it pink? Absolutely—this cut shines blushing. Follow the temperature guide and rest well.
Do I need to marinate it? Not essential. A short marinade or a butter baste adds moisture and flavour.
Whole or sliced? Cook whole for an even pink centre, then slice. For speed, cut into strips for stir-fries or skewers.