I’m of Cuban/American descent. Consequently, I grew up primarily on a diet of BBQ and roasted pig. However, after moving to Spain, I developed a penchant for the tender piglets from Segovia. Initially, mutton and other lamb dishes were a challenging taste for me due to their robust flavor. However, with time, I’ve come to appreciate and even relish it.

Currently, we own a small flock of sheep, which we mainly keep to graze on our property’s grass. This not only ensures a well-maintained lawn but also provides us with financial benefits. We offset the cost of their upkeep by selling the yearlings. Moreover, a local resident benefits from their milk in exchange for assisting in their care.

Having said that, over the years, lamb has grown on me significantly. Now, whenever I host a BBQ, mutton is the star of the show. Guests never stop singing praises and eagerly anticipate the next gathering. However, one aspect of cooking mutton that I find challenging is the lingering smell. It necessitates thorough personal hygiene measures, especially for my children and dogs. Cleaning the BBQ after use is essential to prevent the overpowering aroma from lingering. For those with beards, the scent of mutton can stick around for days. My solution? I opt for a clean shave post-event.