CarneAtlas

Lamb NeckvsLamb Shoulder

lamb · Approximate equivalent

Shoulder is the standard swap for neck in lamb stews and tagines — more meat per kilo, same slow-cook requirement.

Translation takeaway

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

Open Lamb NeckOpen Lamb ShoulderSee substitutes
Raw Lamb Neck — Lamb Neck cut
Lamb Neck
Lamb · Neck

The neck is one of the most economical yet flavourful parts of the lamb, comprising the scrag end (nearest the head) and the middle neck. Rich in collagen and connective tissue,…

NeckRackLoinChumpLegShoulderBreast
Full details →
Raw Lamb Shoulder — Lamb Shoulder cut
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
Full details →
Keep Lamb Neck and Lamb Shoulder together in your notebook.

Names by country

CountryLamb NeckLamb Shoulder
🇺🇸United StatesLamb NeckLamb Shoulder
🇬🇧United KingdomNeck of LambShoulder of Lamb
🇫🇷FranceCollier d'agneauÉpaule d'agneau
🇪🇸SpainCuello de corderoPaletilla de cordero
🇦🇷ArgentinaCuello de corderoPaleta de cordero
🇲🇽MexicoCuello de corderoPaleta de cordero
🇵🇹PortugalPescoço de borregoPá de borrego
🇧🇷BrazilPescoço de cordeiroPaleta de cordeiro
🇮🇹ItalyCollo d'agnelloSpalla d'agnello
🇩🇪GermanyLammhalsLammschulter

Cook either one well

Beef braise in an unbranded Dutch oven

$$ · braised beef, lamb neck, pot roasts, and stews

Turn a tough cut tender in one pot

Browning meat on the stovetop, then braising it slowly in the oven.

Lodge 6-Quart Enameled Cast Iron Dutch Oven

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