how to cook shoulder lamb chops

3 min read 06-02-2025

Shoulder lamb chops, often overlooked in favor of their fancier loin counterparts, offer incredible flavor and tenderness at a more budget-friendly price. With the right cooking technique, these chops become a culinary delight. This guide will walk you through achieving perfectly cooked shoulder lamb chops, whether you prefer them juicy and pink or well-done.

Choosing and Preparing Your Lamb Chops

Before you even think about cooking, selecting the right lamb chops is crucial. Look for chops that are a vibrant red color, with good marbling (small streaks of fat throughout the meat). Avoid chops that are pale or have excessive amounts of fat.

Preparing the Chops:

Pat them dry: Use paper towels to thoroughly dry the lamb chops. This helps them sear properly and develop a nice crust.
Season generously: Season both sides with salt, freshly ground black pepper, and your favorite herbs (rosemary, thyme, and garlic powder are excellent choices). Don't be shy with the seasoning!
Let them rest: Allow the seasoned chops to rest at room temperature for at least 30 minutes. This allows the meat to come to a consistent temperature, leading to more even cooking.

Cooking Methods for Shoulder Lamb Chops

There are several ways to cook shoulder lamb chops, each resulting in a slightly different texture and flavor profile.

Pan-Seared Lamb Chops:

This method is quick, easy, and yields beautifully browned chops.

Heat a heavy-bottomed pan: Heat a tablespoon of high-heat oil (like canola or grapeseed) in a heavy skillet over medium-high heat. The pan should be hot enough that a drop of water sizzles instantly.
Sear the chops: Place the lamb chops in the hot pan and sear for 3-4 minutes per side for medium-rare, or longer for your desired doneness.
Check for doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chops reach your desired internal temperature (130-135°F for medium-rare, 140-145°F for medium).
Rest and serve: Remove the chops from the pan and let them rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender chop.

Grilled Lamb Chops:

Grilling adds a smoky char and delicious flavor to the lamb chops.

Preheat your grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Clean the grates to prevent sticking.
Grill the chops: Place the lamb chops on the preheated grill and cook for 3-4 minutes per side for medium-rare, or longer for your desired doneness. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.
Rest and serve: Remove the chops from the grill and let them rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Oven-Roasted Lamb Chops:

Roasting is a great option for larger quantities of lamb chops or if you prefer a more hands-off cooking method.

Preheat your oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Roast the chops: Place the lamb chops on a baking sheet and roast for 15-20 minutes for medium-rare, or longer for your desired doneness. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.
Rest and serve: Remove the chops from the oven and let them rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving.

What is the Best Internal Temperature for Lamb Chops?

The ideal internal temperature for lamb chops depends on your preference:

Rare: 120-125°F (49-52°C)
Medium-Rare: 130-135°F (54-57°C)
Medium: 140-145°F (60-63°C)
Well-done: 150°F (66°C) and above

Serving Suggestions

Shoulder lamb chops pair well with a variety of sides. Consider these options:

Roasted vegetables: Asparagus, potatoes, carrots, and Brussels sprouts all complement the rich flavor of lamb.
Mint sauce: A classic pairing that brightens the richness of the lamb.
Potato salad: A creamy potato salad offers a delightful contrast to the savory lamb.
Couscous: A light and fluffy couscous salad adds a refreshing element.

Conclusion

Cooking perfect shoulder lamb chops is easier than you might think. By following these tips and choosing your preferred cooking method, you can enjoy a delicious and affordable meal that's sure to impress. Remember to always use a meat thermometer to ensure your lamb chops are cooked to your liking. Enjoy!