Prepare to embark on a culinary journey that will transport your taste buds straight to the vibrant streets of Lebanon! These succulent lamb chops are not just a meal, but a sensory experience that combines aromatic spices, tender meat, and the rich culinary heritage of the Middle East. Whether you're a seasoned home chef or a curious food adventurer, this recipe promises to deliver restaurant-quality flavors right in your own kitchen.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 lamb chops
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 2 teaspoons ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 8 lamb chops, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 2 teaspoons of ground cumin, 2 teaspoons of ground coriander, 1 teaspoon of paprika, and salt and pepper to taste.
- Pat the lamb chops dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. This will help achieve a nice sear when cooking.
- In a small bowl, combine the ground cumin, ground coriander, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well to create a spice blend.
- Rub the spice blend evenly over both sides of each lamb chop, ensuring they are well coated. This will enhance the flavor of the meat.
- In a large skillet or grill pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat until it shimmers. This should take about 1-2 minutes.
- Once the oil is hot, carefully place the seasoned lamb chops in the pan. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan; you may need to cook in batches if your skillet is small.
- Cook the lamb chops for about 3-4 minutes on one side, or until they develop a nice brown crust. Avoid moving them around too much to allow for proper searing.
- Flip the lamb chops and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes on the other side for medium-rare doneness. Adjust the cooking time according to your preference for doneness.
- Once cooked to your liking, remove the lamb chops from the skillet and let them rest on a plate for about 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute within the meat.
- Serve the Lebanese spiced lamb chops warm, garnished with fresh herbs if desired, alongside your favorite sides such as tabbouleh, hummus, or grilled vegetables.
Tips
- Pat the lamb chops completely dry before seasoning to ensure a perfect, crispy sear.
- Use fresh, high-quality spices for the most authentic and intense flavor profile.
- Let the lamb chops come to room temperature before cooking to ensure even cooking.
- Don't overcrowd the pan - cook in batches if necessary to maintain high heat and achieve a beautiful crust.
- Use a meat thermometer for precise doneness: 135°F for medium-rare, 145°F for medium.
- Always let the meat rest after cooking to allow juices to redistribute, ensuring maximum tenderness.
- For an extra flavor boost, consider marinating the lamb chops for 2-4 hours before cooking.
- Pair with traditional Middle Eastern sides like tabbouleh or hummus to complete the authentic experience.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 460kcal
Carbohydrates: 0g
Protein: 40g
Fat: 37g
Saturated Fat: 13g
Cholesterol: 120mg
