This Glazed Lamb Chops with Mashed Potatoes recipe is the epitome of comfort meets gourmet. The tender lamb chops are beautifully seared, then coated in a sweet and tangy glaze, and paired with creamy, buttery mashed potatoes for the perfect meal.
Ingredients
For the Lamb Chops:
- 4 lamb chops (about 1 inch thick)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
For the Mashed Potatoes:
- 4 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup butter
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Mashed Potatoes
- Boil the Potatoes: In a large pot, place the cubed potatoes and cover with water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
- Mash the Potatoes: Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add milk, butter, salt, and pepper. Mash until smooth and creamy. Cover to keep warm and set aside.
Step 2: Season the Lamb Chops
- While the potatoes are cooking, season both sides of the lamb chops with salt, pepper, rosemary, and thyme.
Step 3: Sear the Lamb Chops
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the lamb chops and sear for 3-4 minutes per side until a golden-brown crust forms.
Step 4: Prepare the Glaze
- In a small bowl, mix honey, balsamic vinegar, and minced garlic.
- Reduce the skillet heat to medium-low, pour the glaze over the lamb chops, and cook for another 2-3 minutes, turning the chops to coat them in the glaze.
Step 5: Serve
- Plate a generous serving of mashed potatoes.
- Place the glazed lamb chops on top or alongside the potatoes.
- Drizzle any remaining glaze from the skillet over the lamb chops.
- Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
Nutritional Information
- Calories: ~550 kcal per serving
- Servings: 4
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a fresh garden salad or roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal.
- A glass of red wine, such as Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon, complements this dish beautifully.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use a different glaze for the lamb chops?
- Yes! You can substitute the honey-balsamic glaze with a red wine reduction, pomegranate glaze, or even a mint jelly glaze for variety.
2. What type of potatoes are best for mashing?
- Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal for mashed potatoes due to their creamy texture.
3. How do I ensure my lamb chops are tender?
- Let the lamb chops come to room temperature before cooking and avoid overcooking. Searing them on high heat first helps lock in the juices.
4. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
- Yes, you can prepare the mashed potatoes and the glaze ahead of time. Reheat the potatoes with a splash of milk, and warm the glaze before serving.
Conclusion
This Glazed Lamb Chops with Mashed Potatoes recipe delivers a restaurant-quality dish right in your kitchen. The blend of savory and sweet flavors, tender lamb, and creamy mashed potatoes will make this a meal to remember!