Step 1: Gather Your Tools
Before you begin, make sure you have all the tools you will need at hand. You will need a sharp knife, a cleaver, a pair of scissors, a large cutting board, and a bowl or sink for cleaning the head.
Step 2: Remove the Skin
The first step in cleaning a lamb’s head is to remove the skin. To do this, use a sharp knife to make a circular cut around the base of the neck. Then, working carefully, peel the skin away from the meat, being careful not to puncture the underlying muscle tissue. Once you have removed the skin, set it aside for later use.
Step 3: Remove the Eyes and Ears
Next, use a pair of scissors to carefully trim away the excess skin around the eyes and ears. Use your fingers to gently remove the eyes from the sockets, being careful not to damage the underlying tissue. If you plan on using the lamb’s head for a recipe that calls for the eyes, set them aside in a separate bowl. Otherwise, discard them.
Step 4: Separate the Brain from the Skull
Use a sharp knife to make a small incision in the back of the lamb’s head, just above the spinal cord. Then, use your fingers to carefully remove the brain from the skull. Be gentle, as the brain is quite delicate and can break easily. If you plan on using the brain in your recipe, set it aside in a separate bowl. Otherwise, discard it.
Step 5: Remove the Tongue
Next, use a cleaver to remove the tongue from the lamb’s head. It should come away easily, as it is only attached to the jawbone. Rinse the tongue under cold water to remove any blood or residue, then set it aside for later use.
Step 6: Trim Excess Fat
Finally, use a sharp knife to trim away any excess fat or cartilage from the lamb’s head. Be sure to remove any glands or lymph nodes, as they can cause a bitter taste if left in. Rinse the head under cold water to remove any remaining blood or debris, then pat it dry with a clean towel.
Congratulations! You have now successfully cleaned a lamb’s head. While it may not be the most appealing task, mastering this skill is key to exploring the full range of flavors and textures that lamb can offer. Whether you plan on roasting it whole, using it in a traditional Mid Eastern stew, or trying out your own inventive creations, a properly cleaned lamb’s head is the perfect centerpiece for any adventurous feast.