Crispy Slow-Cooked Lamb Chops
Nutritional value per serving
Calories350kcal
Carbs5gram
Fat20gram
Protein30gram
Ingredients
- Lamb chops (bone-in, about 2 cm thick)4 piece
- Olive oil (extra virgin recommended for flavor)2 tbsp
- Garlic cloves (fresh, minced)3 piece
- Fresh rosemary (or 1 tsp dried rosemary)2 tbsp
- Fresh thyme (optional)1 tbsp
- Salt (preferably sea salt)1.5 tsp
- Black pepper (freshly ground)1 tsp
- Butter (unsalted)1 tbsp
Discover the secret to tender and crispy slow-cooked lamb chops with this easy recipe. Slow cooking the lamb chops ensures juicy and tender meat while a final quick sear crisps the outside for irresistible texture. The total cost for ingredients is approximately $15 USD / €14 / £12 / ₹1200. Each serving contains about 350 kcal. This dish suits a moderate protein diet, is easy to prepare, and requires about 2 hours total including cooking and preparation time, making it perfect for a weekend meal or special occasion. Follow the step-by-step instructions and safety tips to enjoy a delicious and safe lamb chop dinner.
Preparation instructions
Prepare the lamb chops
1Pat the lamb chops dry with paper towels. This helps them sear better. Season both sides generously with salt, black pepper, minced garlic, and rosemary (and thyme if using). Let them sit at room temperature for 15 minutes. This step allows the seasoning to penetrate and the chops to cook evenly.
Slow cook the lamb chops
2Place the lamb chops in a slow cooker or a heavy-bottomed oven-safe pot. Add 1 tablespoon olive oil. Set slow cooker on low and cook lamb chops for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 60°C (140°F) for medium-rare or 65°C (149°F) for medium doneness. Use a meat thermometer to check temperature safely.
Prepare to sear for crispy finish
3Preheat a heavy skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil and butter to the hot pan. The butter will help the lamb chop get a nice golden crust and add flavor.
Sear the lamb chops
4Carefully transfer the slow-cooked lamb chops to the hot pan. Sear each side for about 1-2 minutes until a golden-brown crispy crust forms. Do not overcrowd the pan; work in batches if needed. This final step adds delicious texture contrast.
Rest and serve
5Remove the lamb chops from the pan and let them rest for 5 minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat moist. Serve with your favorite sides and garnish with fresh rosemary if desired.
Cooking Tips
-Always use a food thermometer to check internal temperature: lamb is safe to eat at 60°C (140°F) though some prefer it more done.
-Avoid cross-contamination by using separate cutting boards and utensils for raw meat and vegetables.
-If you don’t have a slow cooker, you can cook the lamb chops in a low oven at 120°C (250°F) covered with foil for about 1.5-2 hours.
-Make sure to dry the lamb chops well before searing to get the crispiest crust.
-Adding fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme infuses flavor but dried herbs can be used if fresh are unavailable.
Equipment needed
- Slow cooker or heavy oven-safe pot
- Meat thermometer
- Heavy skillet or cast-iron pan
- Tongs or spatula
- Paper towels
- Knife and cutting board
Grocery shopping list
- [ ] Lamb chops (4 pieces, bone-in, about 2 cm thick) - Approx. $12. Look for chops with fresh pinkish-red color, firm to touch but not dry.
- [ ] Olive oil (extra virgin, 2 tbsp) - Approx. $0.50. Choose good quality extra virgin for better flavor.
- [ ] Garlic cloves (3 pieces) - Approx. $0.30. Fresh bulbs without sprout are best.
- [ ] Fresh rosemary (small bunch) - Approx. $1. If unavailable, dried rosemary works.
- [ ] Fresh thyme (optional, small bunch) - Approx. $1.
- [ ] Unsalted butter (1 tbsp) - Approx. $0.50. Use quality unsalted butter.
- [ ] Salt and black pepper - Pantry staples
Total approx cost: $15.30
FAQ
What internal temperature should lamb chops reach to be safe to eat?
Lamb chops should reach an internal temperature of at least 60°C (140°F) for medium-rare. Use a meat thermometer to check temperature accurately.
Can I slow cook lamb chops without a slow cooker?
Yes, you can slow cook lamb chops in a low oven (around 120°C or 250°F) covered tightly with foil for 1.5 to 2 hours.
How do I avoid cross-contamination when handling raw lamb?
Use separate cutting boards and utensils for raw lamb and other foods, and wash your hands thoroughly after handling raw meat.
Can I marinate the lamb chops before slow cooking?
Yes, you can marinate the lamb chops in herbs, garlic, olive oil, and lemon juice for a few hours or overnight for extra flavor.
Why do I need to sear the lamb chops after slow cooking?
Searing after slow cooking creates a delicious crispy crust that adds texture and intensifies the flavor of the lamb chops.