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Fancy Pomegranate Lamb Chops Recipe


  • Author: Aiden
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Description

This Fancy Pomegranate Lamb Chops recipe combines succulent organic lamb rib chops with a flavorful pomegranate-infused sauce and a fragrant blend of garlic, thyme, and spices. Lamb chops are seared to form a rich crust, finished in the oven, then topped with a luscious pomegranate reduction sauce that adds a perfect balance of sweetness and acidity. Ideal for a special occasion or gourmet dinner, this dish pairs beautifully with hearty sides like mashed potatoes or rice.


Ingredients

Scale

Lamb Chops

  • 2 lbs. organic lamb rib chops (cut from a rack of French lamb ribs)
  • 6 garlic cloves, crushed or minced
  • 2 fresh thyme sprigs
  • 2 Tbsps extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 tsp sea salt
  • 1 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp dried parsley

Sauce

  • 1/2 cup pomegranate juice (premium)
  • 1 cup pomegranate juice (premium)
  • 2 Tbsps unsalted butter
  • 1 Tbsp cornstarch
  • 3 Tbsps warm water (to mix with cornstarch)

Instructions

  1. Prep the Lamb Chops: After cutting the rack of lamb into chop-sized pieces, pat dry the lamb chops on both sides with paper towels. Generously season all sides with sea salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and dried parsley to ensure full flavor penetration.
  2. Sear the Lamb Chops: Preheat the oven to 375°F. Heat a medium 10-inch deep cast iron skillet over medium-high heat until hot, then add the olive oil to coat the bottom. Place the lamb chops in the skillet and sear for 2-4 minutes on the first side until a rich brown crust forms. Flip using tongs and sear the opposite side for another 2-4 minutes.
  3. Add Aromatics and Begin Oven Cooking: Reduce heat to medium. Add the crushed garlic cloves, pomegranate juice (1/2 cup), and thyme sprigs around and on top of the lamb chops in the skillet. Transfer the entire oven-safe skillet to the preheated oven and cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the lamb reaches your desired doneness. Use a meat thermometer to check internal temperature: Rare (125-130°F), Medium Rare (130-135°F), Medium (140-145°F), Medium Well (155-160°F), Well Done (160-165°F).
  4. Make the Pomegranate Sauce: While lamb cooks, melt the unsalted butter in a saucepan over medium-high heat. Add 1 cup of pomegranate juice and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 1-2 minutes. Stir in the cornstarch slurry (1 Tbsp cornstarch mixed with 3 Tbs warm water) gradually, stirring frequently until the sauce thickens, about one minute. Remove from heat.
  5. Finish with Sauce Baking or Broiling: Spoon the thickened pomegranate sauce over the cooked lamb chops in the skillet. Return the skillet to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes to let the sauce set atop the lamb. Optionally, broil for 2-3 minutes for a caramelized finish, watching carefully to avoid burning.
  6. Rest the Lamb: Remove the lamb chops from the oven and transfer to a cutting board. Let rest for about 5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute and ensure tender, juicy meat.
  7. Serve: Serve the fancy pomegranate lamb chops with your favorite sides such as mashed potatoes, baked potatoes, potato salad, fresh salad, basmati rice, brown rice, or mac and cheese for a complete, indulging meal.
  8. Bon Appetit! Enjoy your elegant and flavorful meal made with fresh lamb and the zest of pomegranate.

Notes

  • Ensure to pat the lamb dry before seasoning to achieve a perfect sear.
  • Use a meat thermometer to check internal temperature for accurate doneness.
  • Premium pomegranate juice delivers the best flavor; avoid sweetened or concentrated juices.
  • The sauce can be thickened with alternative flours like arrowroot or tapioca if preferred.
  • Broiling the sauce at the end adds an appealing caramelized layer but watch closely to prevent burning.
  • Allowing the lamb to rest after cooking helps maintain juiciness and tenderness.
  • This dish pairs well with various starches and salads, so choose sides to your preference.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean

Keywords: lamb chops, pomegranate sauce, seared lamb, oven baked lamb, gourmet lamb recipe, Mediterranean lamb, garlic thyme lamb