Grilling lamb can result in a delicious and flavorful dish when done right. Here's a simple and tasty recipe for grilling lamb chops, which are a popular cut for grilling from Papa Ken at Maine Grilling Woods.
Ingredients:
- 4 lamb loin chops or rib chops (about 1 inch thick)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, finely chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried rosemary)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for added heat)
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
Instructions:
-
Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400-450°F or 200-230°C). Make sure the grill grates are clean and well-oiled to prevent sticking.
-
Prepare the Marinade: In a small bowl, combine the minced garlic, rosemary, olive oil, salt, black pepper, red pepper flakes (if using), lemon zest, and lemon juice. Mix well to create a marinade.
-
Marinate the Lamb: Place the lamb chops in a shallow dish or a resealable plastic bag. Pour the marinade over the chops, ensuring they are well-coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. For the best flavor, you can marinate the lamb for up to 4 hours or overnight in the refrigerator.
-
Grill the Lamb: Remove the lamb chops from the marinade and let any excess marinade drip off. Allow the chops to come to room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before grilling.
-
Grill to Perfection: Place the lamb chops on the preheated grill using pre-soaked brandy apple chips. Grill for about 3-4 minutes per side for medium-rare, or adjust the cooking time to your preferred level of doneness. Lamb is best when it's still slightly pink in the center.
-
Rest and Serve: Remove the lamb chops from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes on a plate or platter. This allows the juices to redistribute and keeps the meat tender. Garnish with fresh rosemary sprigs and lemon wedges.
-
Serve: Plate the grilled lamb chops and serve them with your favorite side dishes. Some excellent choices include roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or couscous.
Enjoy your delicious grilled lamb chops! This recipe highlights the natural flavors of the lamb while adding a zesty and aromatic touch with the rosemary and lemon. Adjust the cooking time according to your preference for doneness, but remember that lamb is best when it's not overcooked and remains tender and juicy. Enjoy! Papa Ken