Lamb chop with herbs baked

Lamb Chop with Herbs in the Oven

Who doesn't love the unmistakable aroma of lamb cooked with fresh herbs? This recipe for lamb chop with herbs in the oven is a perfect choice for festive meals, but it can also be enjoyed on ordinary days, offering a distinctive flavor and juicy texture. Let's begin our culinary journey!

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Marinating time: 5 hours (ideally 12 hours)
Baking time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Number of servings: 4

I. Necessary Ingredients

- 4 lamb chops
- 2 tablespoons of fresh rosemary, chopped
- 2 tablespoons of fresh thyme, chopped
- 2 tablespoons of fresh mint, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves
- 4 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil
- 1 cup of white wine
- salt (to taste)
- pepper (to taste)

II. Overview of Ingredients

Lamb chops are an excellent choice for this recipe due to their rich flavor and tender texture. Fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, and mint not only add flavor but also a beautiful visual appeal. Garlic provides an extra punch of flavor, and olive oil helps keep the meat juicy. The white wine will enhance the flavors and help tenderize the meat.

III. Preparation

1. Marinating the Chops
Start by preparing the marinade. In a mortar, crush the 2 tablespoons of rosemary, 2 tablespoons of thyme, and 2 tablespoons of mint together with the 3 garlic cloves. Add a pinch of salt and 4 tablespoons of olive oil. Mix well until you obtain a smooth paste. This marinade is the key to the intense flavor of the dish.

2. Coating the Chops
Take the lamb chops and coat them with the marinade. Ensure that each piece is well covered so that the flavors penetrate the meat well.

3. Marinating
Place the marinated chops in a covered dish or in a plastic bag that you tie shut. Let them marinate in the fridge for a minimum of 5 hours, but ideally overnight. This will allow the flavors to develop fully.

4. Preparing for Baking
Preheat the oven to 200°C. After the chops have marinated, take them out of the fridge. Place them in a heat-resistant dish and drizzle with a little olive oil and the cup of white wine. Sprinkle salt and pepper to taste, and for an extra flavor boost, chop 2 garlic cloves and add them over the meat.

5. Baking
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and put it in the oven. Bake the chops for 1 hour. Halfway through the baking time, remove the dish, turn the chops over, and add a few sprigs of fresh herbs. Cover again with aluminum foil.

6. Browning the Chops
After an hour, remove the foil and let the chops brown for another 30 minutes. This will help achieve a delicious and crispy crust.

IV. Serving

Once the chops are perfectly browned, take them out of the oven and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. You can arrange them on a beautiful platter, garnished with fresh herbs and lemon slices for an extra touch of freshness. This dish pairs wonderfully with grilled vegetables or creamy mashed potatoes.

V. Practical Tips

- Choosing the Meat: Choose lamb chops with a layer of fat, as this will contribute to the juiciness of the dish.
- The Wine: Use a quality white wine, as its flavor will influence the dish. A Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay would be excellent choices.
- Variations: You can experiment with other herbs, such as basil or parsley, depending on your preferences.

VI. Calories and Nutritional Benefits

This recipe for lamb chop contains approximately 450 calories per serving, being rich in protein due to the lamb meat. Additionally, fresh herbs add vitamins and antioxidants, contributing to a healthy and balanced meal.

VII. Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use other types of meat?
Yes, this recipe can also be adapted for lamb or pork, adjusting the baking time according to the type of meat used.

2. How can I store leftovers?
Leftover chops can be stored in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the oven or use them in salads.

3. What side dishes pair best?
Grilled vegetables, sweet potatoes, or a creamy risotto are excellent choices to accompany this dish.

VIII. Personal Story

I fondly remember the first time I cooked this lamb chop for my family. It was a spring evening, and the aroma of the herbs and roasted meat filled the entire house. Their reactions were unforgettable, and since then, this dish has become a family favorite for festive meals.

In conclusion, lamb chop with herbs in the oven is a simple yet impactful recipe, perfect for bringing family and friends together at the table. I encourage you to try this recipe and enjoy every bite! Bon appétit!