Lamb Chops with Grilled Asparagus

Name: Lamb Chops with Grilled Asparagus
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: International
Ingredients: 8 lamb rib chops (900 grams); 453 grams of asparagus, trimmed; 68 grams watercress, tough stems removed; 113 grams rhubarb, cut into slices; 1 tbsp. fennel seeds; 67 grams sugar; Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper; 1 tbsp. julienned fresh ginger; 118 ml apple cider vinegar; 1-star anise pod; 2 cloves garlic, peeled and smashed; Flaky sea salt, such as Jacobsen, and lime wedges, for serving; Extra-virgin olive oil for brushing and drizzling

·February 23, 2023
·Sam

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Grilled lamb chops with green herb sauce, feta, asparagus and potatoes served on a wooden board

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Lamb Chops with Grilled Asparagus

If you’ve never tried lamb, cooking this Lamb Chops with Grilled Asparagus recipe might make a lifetime fan out of you! It’s salty and garlicky with plenty of delicious flavor, yet mild enough to suit almost any palate. For a pleasant surprise, this recipe uses rhubarb for a touch of sweetness and a squeeze of lime for an unexpected freshness you’ll fall in love with.

You might also really love these Yorkshire Lamb Patties, another fresh and flavorful dinner recipe. And for dessert? How about decadent Black Forest Cherry Cheesecake Cups? They’re a no-bake dessert that you’ll crave again and again.

Why You’ll Love Lamb Chops with Grilled Asparagus

Lamb chops are juicy, succulent, and oh-so-delicious! If you’re in the mood for a flavorful, hearty, and satisfying meal, this one will hit the spot. And even though it sounds complicated to make, it’s much easier than you think!

What are Lamb Chops?

Lamb chops are small, tender cuts of lamb meat. They’re taken for the ribs of the lamb. They’re easy to cook even though they are often considered a fancy dish, and because they have a rich, sweet flavor, lamb chops tend to be a favorite among those who learn to cook them well.

What can I serve with Lamb Chops?

Lamb chops pair well with so many different side dishes! Here are some classic options:

Grilled or roasted vegetables (asparagus, brussels sprouts, broccoli)
Mashed or roasted potatoes
Rice pilaf
Fresh artisan bread
Fresh greens like watercress or a salad with vinaigrette dressing

Do Lamb Chops Need to be Cooked Well Done?

No, lamb chops don’t need to be cooked well-done. This is a personal preference; lamb can be served rare if you prefer. Here’s a quick temperature guide to test the doneness of your lamb:

Rare: 115-120°F (45-48°C)
Medium-Rare: 125°F (51°C)
Medium: 130°F (54°C)
Medium-Well: 145°F (62°C)
Well Done: 150°F (65°C)

Helpful Equipment To Make Lamb Chops with Grilled Asparagus

These tools will help make this recipe even easier!

Measuring cups and spoons
Mixing bowl
Cutting board and knife
Whisk
Spatula or flipper
Cooking pan
Skillet
Mortar and pestle (or a zip top bag and a heavy rolling pin, or a heavy skillet)
Wooden spoon
BBQ Grill

Grilled lamb chops with green herb sauce, feta, asparagus and potatoes served on a wooden board

Grilled Lamb Chops with Asparagus Ingredients

To make this amazing Grilled Lamb Chops recipe with Asparagus, you’ll need:

8 lamb rib chops (900 grams)
453 grams of asparagus, trimmed
68 grams watercress, tough stems removed
113 grams rhubarb, cut into slices
1 tbsp. fennel seeds
67 grams sugar
Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper
1 tbsp. julienned fresh ginger
118 ml apple cider vinegar
1-star anise pod
2 cloves garlic, peeled and smashed
Flaky sea salt, such as Jacobsen, and lime wedges, for serving
Extra-virgin olive oil for brushing and drizzling

How To Make Lamb Chops with Grilled Asparagus

First, we’ll crush the spices. Use a mortar and pestle and press until they’re crushed (or place them in a resealable bag and crush them with a rolling pin or the bottom of a skillet).

Sprinkle the fennel seeds, kosher salt, and pepper liberally on the lamb chops. Let them rest for 30 minutes at room temperature or place in the refrigerator, covered, for up to a day.

Place a large sautee pan over a moderate flame, and add the sugar, vinegar, ginger, and garlic. Stir constantly until the sugar dissolves. Cook for 4 to 5 minutes, whisk, and then cook until the liquid evaporates.

Add the rhubarb and star anise. Heat for 3 minutes, frequently stirring, until rhubarb is cooked but not falling apart. Transfer to a heat-resistant bowl and allow it to fully cool.

Meanwhile, heat your grill to medium-high. Oil the asparagus and season with kosher salt and pepper.

Then, you’ll place your lamb chops on the grill for about 3 minutes on each side or until a golden-brown crust forms and they are medium-rare. Place on a dish and cover with foil to maintain heat.

Finally, grill your asparagus for 3 to 4 minutes, turning it occasionally, until browned and crisp-tender. Toss the watercress with a squeeze of lime and your flaky salt. Plate by setting the lamb chops in the center and the asparagus on the side. Serve with a dish of rhubarb compote and lime wedges.

Prep Time

This dish will take you approximately an hour to make. Of that time, 25 minutes will be preparing your ingredients.

Grilled lamb chops with green herb sauce, asparagus and potatoes

What Herbs Go With Lamb Chops?

Lamb chops are pretty versatile, and plenty of common seasonings and herbs compliment lamb well. Some of the most popular options include:

Rosemary: Because of its strong, pungent flavor, it compliments the richness of lamb chops.
Thyme: Thyme has a sweet, earthy flavor that pairs well with how savory lamb chops can be.
Mint: Fresh mint can add a freshness to lamb. It’s probably the most commonly used seasoning with lamb and is often served in the form of a jelly or sauce.
Sage: Sage is a bit more bitter and adds depth to lamb dishes.
Oregano: Oregano is a staple herb in Mediterranean cooking. It brings a warm, spicy touch to the flavor of your lamb.

These are just a few examples, but there are plenty more herbs that complement lamb chops. If you’ve never tried lamb and are unsure if you’ll enjoy it, try some of your favorite seasonings instead of using unknown ingredients. I think you’ll be pleasantly surprised!

Ingredient Substitutions and Variations

Rhubard: Substitute rhubarb with strawberries or raspberries instead.

Fennel: If you’re not a fan of fennel seeds, substitute with almost any other spice of your choice. Rosemary, thyme, or oregano will work well.

Apple Cider Vinegar: If you don’t have apple cider vinegar on hand, you can substitute with red wine vinegar instead.

Star Anise: It’s not common to have star anise on hand, so add it to your grocery list. But if you don’t have any, no worries! You can use a cinnamon stick or a pinch of nutmeg instead.

Tips & Tricks and Recipe Notes

Make sure you oil your grill really well. This will stop your lamb chops from sticking and help you to get a great sear.
No grill? No problem! Cook the lamb chops in a grill pan on your stovetop or under the broiler. Just make sure you keep a close eye, and don’t let them get too hot.
So you don’t end up with soggy, stringy asparagus, make sure to cut all the pieces to the same length and thickness. I prefer thin asparagus and I cook it quickly so it stays tender-crisp.

How to Store

Store any leftover lamb chops and grilled asparagus in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the leftovers in a pan on the stove over medium heat until warmed through.

FAQs

What’s the difference between lamb chops and lamb steaks?

Lamb steaks come from the leg or shoulder of a lamb and tend to be large pieces of meat. Lamb chops, on the other hand, are smaller cuts of meat that are removed from the rib section.

Grilled lamb chops with green herb sauce, asparagus and potatoes

Conclusion

So, gather your ingredients, fire up the grill, and get ready to enjoy a truly unforgettable meal! Lamb chops and grilled asparagus make a delicious and sophisticated dinner that will impress your guests. It doesn’t matter if you’re a seasoned home chef or a beginner, this recipe is actually very easy to follow! It’s perfect for a special occasion or a weeknight dinner.