How to prepare it
Prepare the mashed potatoes: Boil the cubed potatoes in salted water until they’re tender, which should take about 15 minutes. Drain them and mash with butter and milk until you achieve a creamy texture. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside.
Sear the lamb chops: Season the lamb chops generously with salt and pepper. In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. When hot, add the lamb chops and sear for 2–3 minutes on each side until they’re beautifully golden. For added flavor, toss in the smashed garlic and thyme sprigs during the last minute. Once cooked, remove from the skillet and let the chops rest.
Make the rosemary sauce: Using the same skillet, pour in the red wine to deglaze, scraping any browned bits off the bottom. Add the broth and chopped rosemary, then simmer until it reduces slightly. For a luxurious finish, stir in a bit of butter.
Assemble the dish: On a plate, place a generous scoop of mashed potatoes, top with the seared lamb chops, and drizzle the rosemary sauce over everything. Garnish with fresh thyme for that extra touch.
Serve warm: Enjoy your dish alongside roasted vegetables or a crisp salad for a complete meal.
How to plate and pair
To truly elevate your seared lamb chops, consider adding a colorful side of roasted mixed vegetables like carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers. A refreshing arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette can also brighten the plate and balance the dish’s richness. For a gourmet touch, arrange the mashed potatoes using a piping bag for a fancy presentation or shape them into a quenelle with a spoon.
Storage and reheating tips
Storing leftovers properly is key to enjoying your meal later. You can keep the leftover lamb and mashed potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing the lamb, but keep in mind that the texture may change slightly upon reheating. To reheat, gently warm in the oven or microwave, adding a splash of milk to the mashed potatoes for creaminess.
Helpful cooking tips
- Choose quality: Opt for fresh, high-quality lamb chops for the best flavor. Frenched chops not only look great but also allow for a bit of fun presentation.
- Rest your meat: Letting the lamb chops rest after searing helps maintain their juiciness. During this time, the flavors marry beautifully!
- Don’t rush the sauce: Take the time to deglaze and scrape the skillet properly; it’s where most of the flavor lies.
Creative twists
Feeling adventurous? You can introduce different herbs to the dish; try switching rosemary for mint or oregano for a fresh take. A squeeze of lemon juice can also brighten the sauce, adding a hint of acidity that complements the rich lamb. For a twist on the potatoes, consider adding roasted garlic or even a sprinkle of parmesan cheese for added flavor.
FAQs
What is the preparation time for this dish?
You’ll need about 30 minutes for this recipe, making it manageable for a weeknight dinner as well as special occasions.
Can I substitute the lamb with another meat?
Absolutely! This recipe works well with beef chops or even pork, but adjust the cooking times to ensure proper doneness.
How should I store leftovers safely?
Store any leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to three days. Ensure they’re cooled before placing them in the fridge to maintain freshness.
