Imagine a dish that transforms ordinary lamb chops into a culinary masterpiece with just a few simple ingredients. These Balsamic Vinegar and Brown Sugar Lamb Chops are not just a meal—they're a flavor explosion that will transport you straight to the sun-drenched Mediterranean coastline. With a perfect balance of tangy balsamic vinegar, rich brown sugar, and aromatic rosemary, this recipe promises to elevate your home cooking from ordinary to extraordinary in just 25 minutes.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 lamb chops
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Remove lamb chops from refrigerator 30 minutes before cooking to allow them to reach room temperature, which ensures even cooking.
- Pat lamb chops dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps achieve a perfect sear.
- Season both sides of lamb chops generously with salt, pepper, and finely chopped rosemary, pressing the seasonings into the meat.
- In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, brown sugar, and minced garlic to create a glaze, ensuring the sugar is fully dissolved.
- Heat olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan over medium-high heat until it shimmers and begins to smoke slightly.
- Place lamb chops in the hot skillet, cooking for 3-4 minutes on each side for medium-rare, or adjust cooking time based on desired doneness.
- During the last 2 minutes of cooking, pour the balsamic-brown sugar glaze over the lamb chops, allowing it to caramelize and create a rich, sticky coating.
- Remove lamb chops from skillet and let rest on a cutting board for 5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute.
- Drizzle any remaining glaze from the pan over the lamb chops before serving.
- Garnish with fresh rosemary sprigs and serve immediately with your choice of side dishes.
Tips
- • Room temperature matters: Always let your lamb chops sit out for 30 minutes before cooking to ensure even heat distribution. • Pat meat dry: Use paper towels to remove moisture, which helps achieve that gorgeous, crispy sear. • High heat is key: Use a cast-iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan to get that perfect caramelization. • Don't rush the resting: Let the lamb chops rest for 5 minutes after cooking to keep them juicy and tender. • Watch your glaze: Pour the balsamic-brown sugar mixture in the last couple of minutes to prevent burning and create a beautiful, sticky coating. • Customize your doneness: Adjust cooking time to achieve your preferred level of meat preparation. • Fresh herbs make a difference: Garnish with fresh rosemary sprigs for an extra burst of flavor and visual appeal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Cholesterol: 95mg
