CarneAtlas

Cordero lechalvsLamb Shoulder

lamb · Approximate equivalent

These cuts are approximate equivalents — similar in character but with meaningful differences in preparation or exact cut.

Same age-class distinction — cordero lechal is roasted whole or in quarters, regular lamb shoulder is butchered as a primal cut.

Translation takeaway

These are related cuts, but not perfect swaps. Use the table below to judge how close your local option is before buying.

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Cordero lechal
Lamb · Leg

Castilian PGI tradition of milk-fed suckling lamb, slaughtered at 21 days or younger, weighing under 7kg. Roasted whole or in halves in a wood-fired clay oven (horno de leña) at…

NeckRackLoinChumpLegShoulderBreast
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Lamb Shoulder
Lamb · Shoulder

The shoulder is the entire front quarter of the lamb, and is more heavily marbled than the leg due to the constant use of the shoulder muscles. This fat and connective tissue…

NeckRackLoinChumpLegShoulderBreast
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Names by country

CountryCordero lechalLamb Shoulder
🇺🇸United StatesSuckling lambLamb Shoulder
🇬🇧United KingdomSuckling lambShoulder of Lamb
🇫🇷FranceAgneau de laitÉpaule d'agneau
🇪🇸SpainCordero lechalPaletilla de cordero
🇦🇷ArgentinaCordero lechalPaleta de cordero
🇲🇽MexicoCordero lechalPaleta de cordero
🇵🇹PortugalBorrego de leitePá de borrego
🇧🇷BrazilCordeiro de leitePaleta de cordeiro
🇮🇹ItalyAgnello da latteSpalla d'agnello
🇩🇪GermanyMilchlammLammschulter

Cook either one well

Unbranded meat thermometers beside a resting steak

$$ · roasts, smokers, and long cooks

Track a brisket overnight without opening the lid

Monitoring large cuts where opening the smoker or oven would cost heat.

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