Herb-Marinated Broiled Lamb Chops with Mint Jelly Recipe
Introduction
Lamb chops are a quick and flavorful choice for a satisfying meal. This recipe uses a simple herb seasoning and a brief marinade to enhance the natural taste of the lamb, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried marjoram
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 8 lamb loin chops (3 ounces each)
- Mint jelly, optional
Instructions
- Step 1: Combine the dried basil, marjoram, thyme, and salt in a small bowl. Rub the seasoning mixture evenly over all sides of the lamb loin chops.
- Step 2: Cover the seasoned chops and refrigerate for one hour to allow the flavors to develop. (If short on time, you may skip this step, but chilling helps achieve a better sear.)
- Step 3: Preheat your broiler and position the oven rack so the lamb chops will be 4 to 6 inches from the heat source.
- Step 4: Broil the lamb loin chops for 5 to 8 minutes on each side, depending on your preferred doneness. Use a meat thermometer to check: 135°F for medium-rare, 140°F for medium, and 145°F for medium-well.
- Step 5: Remove the chops from the broiler and let them rest briefly. Serve warm, optionally with mint jelly for a classic touch.
Tips & Variations
- For extra flavor, marinate the lamb chops longer in the herb mixture and a bit of olive oil if you have more time.
- Try adding garlic powder or freshly ground black pepper to the seasoning for a more robust taste.
- Pair with roasted vegetables or a simple salad for a balanced meal.
Storage
Store any leftover cooked lamb chops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or oven to maintain tenderness. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can dry out the meat.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use other cuts of lamb for this recipe?
Yes, but cooking times may vary. Thicker cuts like rib chops may need longer to cook through, so adjust broiling time accordingly and check with a thermometer.
Is it necessary to chill the lamb before cooking?
Chilling helps the salt draw moisture from the surface, leading to a better sear and improved flavor. However, if you’re short on time, you can skip this step and still get a delicious result.
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Herb-Marinated Broiled Lamb Chops with Mint Jelly Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 26 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This simple and flavorful Lamb Chops recipe features a fragrant herb rub and quick broiling technique to deliver tender, juicy chops with a perfect sear. Ideal for a fuss-free yet elegant meal, these lamb loin chops are seasoned with dried basil, marjoram, thyme, and salt, then broiled to your preferred doneness. Serve with optional mint jelly for a classic accompaniment.
Ingredients
Herb Seasoning
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried marjoram
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Lamb Chops
- 8 lamb loin chops (3 ounces each)
- Mint jelly, optional, for serving
Instructions
- Season and chill the lamb loin chops: In a small bowl, combine the dried basil, marjoram, thyme, and salt. Rub this seasoning mixture evenly over all sides of the lamb loin chops. Cover the seasoned chops and refrigerate for one hour to allow the salt to draw out moisture and enhance the sear. (If short on time, you can skip chilling, but the flavor and crust may be less pronounced.)
- Preheat and broil the lamb chops: Preheat your oven’s broiler and position the oven rack so that the lamb chops will be about 4 to 6 inches from the heat source. Place the lamb chops on a broiler pan or rack. Broil the chops for 5 to 8 minutes on each side, depending on thickness and your desired doneness. Use a meat thermometer to check for internal temperature: 135°F for medium-rare, 140°F for medium, or 145°F for medium-well.
- Serve: Remove the lamb chops from the broiler and let them rest briefly. Serve them warm with mint jelly on the side if desired for a classic touch.
Notes
- Chilling the chops for one hour enhances the sear by drying out the surface slightly.
- Adjust broiling time based on chop thickness and oven performance to avoid overcooking.
- Use a meat thermometer for best results to ensure precise doneness.
- Mint jelly complements the rich flavor of lamb but is optional.
- For extra flavor, fresh herbs can be used instead of dried, but adjust quantities accordingly.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 16 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Broiling
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: lamb chops, broiled lamb, herb rub, easy lamb recipe, quick dinner, main course lamb, mint jelly
