Minted lamb chops are an easy and delicious way to enjoy a classic dish. This fragrant and flavorful preparation of lamb is perfect for any occasion, requiring just a few simple ingredients that can be found in most kitchens.
Whether you’re planning an intimate dinner with friends or making a hearty meal for the family, minted lamb chops make a great centerpiece. Not only do they provide plenty of flavor, but they also come together quickly and require minimal effort.
What are lamb chops
Lamb chops are a type of cut of meat taken from the shoulder, rib, or loin of a lamb. They are typically cut into individual chops and may include a portion of the rib bone. These chops can be grilled, roasted, pan-fried, broiled, or even cooked over a campfire.
When cooked properly, lamb chops can have a tender and juicy texture with full flavor. They are an excellent source of protein and provide important vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats. Lamb chops can be prepared in a variety of ways including marinated, with herbs and spices, or breaded and fried.
They can also be served alone or with a side dish such as mashed potatoes, rice pilaf, roasted vegetables, and more. Lamb chops make for an easy weeknight dinner or a delicious addition to any special occasion meal. With the right preparation, they can be a delicious treat for the whole family to enjoy!
How to cook perfect lamb chops
Begin by roughly chopping the shallots and garlic and adding them to a food processor or blender.
Next, pour in some olive oil, fresh mint, salt, and pepper to create a mint puree.
Heat up a grill pan over medium-high heat with a little bit of oil.
Spread the mint puree over each lamb chop and place in the heated grill pan.
Let the lamb chops cook for 4 minutes then flip on the other side an cook for another 4 minutes.
How to serve
When it comes to sides, you have a lot of options to choose from. Consider adding some roasted vegetables like potatoes, carrots, and parsnips. A colorful salad with crunchy greens and a light vinaigrette is another great option.
If you’re looking for something a bit heartier, try some mashed potatoes or roasted potatoes. You could also pair your lamb chops with a classic side like steamed broccoli or green beans.
For a truly decadent dish, try pairing your lamb chops with grilled asparagus and crumbled feta cheese.
How do you know when lamb chops are done?
Knowing when your lamb chops are ready to be taken off the heat is key for making sure they are cooked to perfection. Depending on the thickness of the cut, the time required for your lamb chops to be cooked through can vary greatly.
The most accurate way to determine when your lamb chops are done is by using a meat thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of your lamb chop and make sure it is not touching any bone or fat. For medium-rare, your thermometer should read an internal temperature of 145°F, for medium 140°F, and for well-done 160°F or higher.
If you don’t have a meat thermometer, you can also check for doneness by pressing down on the meat with your fingers. The fleshy piece inside your hand just underneath your thumb should feel like this when you press the meat in it with its thickest part.
Press the rest of your fingers against your thumb to evaluate how the gentleness changes in the three stages of the well done (little finger), medium (ring finger), and rare (middle finger).
Additionally, if you notice that the fat on the edge of the chop has begun to render down and look golden brown, this is another sign that your lamb chops are done. Following these steps will ensure that your lamb chops are cooked perfectly every time.
How to store leftover
To ensure that your lamb chops are kept safe, fresh, and delicious, there are a few simple steps you should take.
First, make sure that your lamb chops have cooled down to room temperature before putting them in the refrigerator. Wrap them in aluminum foil or store them in an airtight container. Once stored, the meat should be consumed within three to four days.
If you don’t plan on eating them within this timeframe, freeze them. To freeze the lamb chops, wrap them up in aluminum foil or place them in a freezer bag and then place them in the freezer. When freezing your leftovers, it is also important to label and date the package. This will help you to keep track of when the meat was frozen and for how long it will last.
How to reheat lamb chops
Reheating lamb chops can be a tricky task. If done improperly, they can become dry, tough and unappetizing. Luckily, there are a few simple steps to follow to ensure that your lamb chops are reheated to perfection.
First, you should preheat your oven to 350°F. Then, place the lamb chops on a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
Finally, bake for 10-15 minutes depending on the thickness of the chops.
OTHER RECIPES YOU’LL LOVE
Minted Lamb Chops
Tantalize your taste buds with the delicious flavor of our minted lamb chops. Perfectly cooked and seasoned to perfection, you won't experience a better lamb dish.
Ingredients
- 4 pieces Lamb Chops
- 6-8 pieces Mint Leaves
- 2 tbsp Olive Oil
- 1 clove Garlic chopped
- 1 piece Shallot chopped
Instructions
Add the shallot, mint, olive oil and garlic to a food processor. Mix until ingredients become paste that can be spread unto the meat.
Using a spoon spread the mint paste over the lamb chops
In a medium heated grill pan or frying pan, add a little bit of oil. Add the lamb chops with the mint paste side down and let it cook for about 4 minutes.
Spread the remaining paste on the other side of the meat before flipping. Cook for another 4 minutes.