There’s something undeniably primal about grilling lamb chops—the sizzling sound, the wafting aroma, it’s like a backyard symphony of deliciousness. I remember the first time I tried this recipe at a friend’s barbecue, the charred edges and juicy center were so perfect, I almost didn’t believe it was homemade. Now, it’s my go-to for impressing guests, even if I’m just improvising with whatever herbs I can find in the pantry.
Steps
- Mix minced garlic, chopped rosemary, kosher salt, ground black pepper, lemon zest, and olive oil in a measuring cup to create a marinade.
- Pour the marinade over lamb loin or rib chops, flipping them to ensure they are fully covered. Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to overnight, to enhance flavor.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and grill the lamb chops for 7-10 minutes, or until they reach an internal temperature of 135°F, indicating they are cooked to medium.
- Once grilled, place the lamb chops on a plate and cover them with aluminum foil. Let them rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow juices to redistribute.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds lamb loin or rib chops, thick cut
- 4 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 1/4 teaspoons kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- Zest from 1 lemon
- 1/4 cup olive oil
FAQ
- What are the best flavors to pair with lamb?
- Lamb pairs well with flavors such as garlic, rosemary, thyme, oregano, lemon, fennel, mustard, and mint. Using these ingredients will complement and enhance the unique taste of lamb.
- Which cuts of lamb are suitable for grilling?
- Loin, rib, or sirloin chops are ideal for grilling. If you opt for shoulder or leg chops, using a marinade is recommended to ensure tenderness. Choose chops with light pink/red, finely textured meat and smooth, white fat, ideally over an inch thick.
- How should I prepare the lamb chops before grilling?
- Combine garlic, rosemary, salt, pepper, lemon zest, and olive oil to create a marinade. Pour it over the chops, ensuring they are completely covered. Marinate in the fridge for at least 1 hour, or up to overnight for optimal flavor.
- What is the recommended grilling time and temperature for lamb chops?
- Grill lamb chops on medium-high heat for 7-10 minutes, or until they reach an internal temperature of 135°F for medium doneness. Avoid overcooking to prevent dryness.
- Can I prepare lamb chops in the oven instead of grilling?
- Yes, lamb chops can be cooked in the oven. Sear them on the stove first, then finish in the oven at 350°F. Use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach the desired internal temperature for your preferred level of doneness.
Tips
- To ensure the lamb chops are tender and flavorful, marinate them for at least one hour, but ideally overnight. This allows the flavors of garlic, rosemary, and lemon zest to fully infuse into the meat.
- Use a meat thermometer when grilling the lamb chops to avoid overcooking. Aim for an internal temperature of 135°F for medium doneness, which will keep the meat juicy and tender.
- After grilling, let the lamb chops rest under foil for about 5 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in more flavorful and moist chops.
- If you don’t have a grill, you can achieve similar results using a cast iron skillet on the stovetop. Sear the chops on medium-high heat and finish them in a preheated oven for even cooking.
Equipment
- Grill (charcoal or gas)
- Digital meat thermometer
- Cast iron skillet (if you choose to cook on stovetop instead of a grill)
- Mortar and pestle (for making a paste of the marinade ingredients)
- Measuring cup (for mixing the marinade)
