Lamb shoulder chops recipe – How to cook lamb shoulder chops

Looking for a hearty, succulent dish that’s sure to impress? Look no further than this exquisite recipe for lamb shoulder chops. Bursting with flavor and tender to the bite, this dish is a perfect centerpiece for any gathering or a cozy night in. From start to finish, this recipe will take approximately 2 hours to prepare and cook.

How to Prepare Lamb Shoulder Chops – The Ingredients

To create this delectable dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 4 lamb shoulder chops (about 200g each)
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 lemon, sliced
• 200ml red wine
• 200ml beef or vegetable broth
• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar

Alternative Ingredients for lamb shoulder chops

For a vegan version of this dish, substitute the lamb shoulder chops with thick slices of portobello mushrooms.

Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth and omit the red wine for a gluten-free option.

How to Prepare Lamb Shoulder Chops – The Steps

1. Preheat your oven to 180°C.
2. Season the lamb shoulder chops generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
3. Heat olive oil in a large ovenproof skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Sear the lamb shoulder chops for 3-4 minutes on each side until they develop a golden crust.
5. Remove the lamb chops from the skillet and set aside.
6. In the same skillet, add minced garlic, rosemary, and thyme. Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
7. Deglaze the skillet with red wine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.
8. Stir in beef or vegetable broth and balsamic vinegar. Bring to a simmer.
9. Return the lamb shoulder chops to the skillet, nestling them into the sauce.
10. Place lemon slices on top of the lamb chops.
11. Cover the skillet with a lid or aluminum foil and transfer it to the preheated oven.
12. Roast for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the lamb is tender and easily pulls apart with a fork.
13. Serve the lamb shoulder chops hot, drizzled with the pan sauce and accompanied by your favorite sides.

Nutritional Advantages of the Lamb shoulder chops Recipe

This recipe for lamb shoulder chops offers a rich source of protein, essential vitamins, and minerals. Lamb is particularly high in zinc, iron, and B vitamins, which are important for maintaining energy levels and supporting overall health. Additionally, the fresh herbs and garlic contribute antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties to the dish.

Possible Add-ons or Upgrades

Enhance the flavor of your lamb shoulder chops by adding additional aromatics such as shallots, capers, or olives to the pan sauce. For added richness, finish the dish with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a sprinkle of feta cheese before serving. You can also serve the lamb chops alongside roasted vegetables or a crisp green salad for a complete meal.

Q&A

• Can I marinate the lamb shoulder chops beforehand?
  Marinating the lamb chops for a few hours or overnight can intensify the flavor. Consider using a marinade of olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and herbs.
• Can I use a different cut of lamb for this recipe?
  While shoulder chops are preferred for their tenderness and flavor, you can also use lamb loin chops or leg steaks. Adjust the cooking time accordingly based on the thickness of the cuts.
• Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
  Yes, you can prepare the lamb shoulder chops in advance and reheat them gently before serving. Store the cooked chops in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, and reheat them in a low oven or on the stovetop with the pan sauce.