Cooking a delicious and impressive meal doesn’t have to be complicated.
With this simple yet flavorful recipe, you can make succulent garlic and herb lamb chops that will wow your family and guests.
Let’s dive into the details to make this savory dish.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs lamb rack, cut into chops
- 8 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 sprigs rosemary, chopped
- 3 sprigs thyme, chopped
- 2 tablespoons avocado oil
- 2-3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 1/2 teaspoons pink salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Extras:
- Parsley for garnish
- Additional avocado oil for cooking
Instructions:
1. Preparing the Lamb Chops
First, you’ll want to prepare the lamb rack by cutting it into individual chops.
Use a sharp knife to carefully separate each chop, then pat them dry with paper towels.
Drying the lamb is essential to ensure a good sear when cooking.
Next, place the lamb chops in a dish.
Add the minced garlic, chopped rosemary and thyme, pink salt, black pepper, and 2 tablespoons of avocado oil.
Mix everything well to ensure the lamb chops are evenly coated on both sides with the seasoning and herbs.
Cover the dish and place it in the refrigerator to marinate for at least one hour.
This marination process allows the flavors to penetrate the meat, making the chops incredibly tasty.
2. Browning the Chops
When you’re ready to cook, start by turning your oven on to broil on HIGH.
This will ensure it reaches the desired temperature while you prepare the chops on the stove.
Heat 1 tablespoon of avocado oil in a hot cast-iron skillet or a nonstick skillet over medium-high heat.
Once the oil is hot, add the lamb chops in a single layer.
Cook each side for about 2 minutes, just enough to brown them.
Browning the chops will help to lock in the juices and add a beautiful color to the meat.
3. Broiling the Chops
After browning the lamb chops, transfer them to a baking dish if you’re not using an oven-safe skillet.
Arrange the chops in a single layer to ensure even cooking.
If you are using a cast-iron skillet, you can skip this step.
Divide the 2-3 tablespoons of unsalted butter and place a small piece on top of each chop.
This will add richness and enhance the flavor as the butter melts over the lamb during broiling.
Place the baking dish (or skillet) in the oven and broil on HIGH for 3 minutes.
This quick broil will finish cooking the lamb chops to a perfect medium-rare, with a nice crust on the outside.
4. Garnishing and Serving
Once the lamb chops are done broiling, remove them from the oven and garnish with freshly chopped parsley.
Allow the chops to rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
Resting the meat is crucial as it allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite is tender and flavorful.
Don’t forget to save the garlic and herb-infused oil from the skillet.
Drizzle this aromatic oil over the lamb chops just before serving for an extra burst of flavor.
Tips for Success:
- Marinating Time: While an hour of marinating is sufficient, you can marinate the lamb chops overnight for an even deeper flavor.
- Choosing the Right Lamb: Opt for high-quality lamb rack from a trusted butcher or grocery store for the best results.
- Cooking Time: Keep an eye on the lamb chops while broiling. Depending on your oven’s broil setting and the thickness of the chops, you might need to adjust the cooking time slightly.
- Resting the Meat: Don’t skip the resting step. It makes a significant difference in the tenderness and juiciness of the meat.
This garlic and herbs lamb chops recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household.
With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a gourmet meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
Enjoy the rich flavors and the satisfaction of serving a home-cooked dish that’s better than store-bought!