Lamb always seems to be available in the food stores, but I never see mutton (meat from mature sheep). What is that?

Having eaten mutton in Wales, it's not to my liking but I adore lamb. I feel sure that wherever you are, there is probably some butcher than can get you some mutton.

Martha

The mutton's are maybe just out making more lambs?

I'm also thinking it is just not a regular request from average grocery shoppers here.

Generally, unless you are raised on mutton, it is more of an aquired taste. Not something most Americans really like.
However, a BBQ'd whole sheep on a spit is soooo yummy!
Years ago our FFA kids did that...one sheep & one hog on spits...sold the bbq dinners and had a dance afterwards. Raised enough ** to fund their programs for over a year.

quote:

Originally posted by weakestlink:
Lamb always seems to be available in the food stores, but I never see mutton (meat from mature sheep). What is that?

I think it's because mutton is usually tough, somewhat gristly and has a pretty strong flavor compared to lamb ~ I agree that it is an acquired taste that most Americans haven't acquired!

As part of a multi-generational cattle ranching family, we seldom had either mutton or lamb!

But, I have had some incredibly delicious mutton stews prepared by those who raised sheep for a living and think it needs a LONG slow process to tenderize the meat which is why the stew process in the hands of experts is a success.

I imagine you could arrange a custom order from a butcher for mutton if you wanted, but why would you? Is there a dish or recipe that you would like to make again ~ maybe something from years ago that you remember favorably? Just wondering...

When my Dad was in France during WWI mutton was about the only meat they had. He could not stand anymore. I don't remember my Mom ever cooking lamb, my Grandmother did occasionally, as do I these many years later.

I've always heard that mutton is just older lamb and is not as tender, but that's just what I have heard.