Chef John's Grilled Lamb with Mint-Orange Sauce

Using a blend of Mediterranean herbs and spices and a touch of cinnamon, these tender grilled lamb chops are served with orange and fresh mint sauce.

• Preparation Time: 10 mins
• Cooking Time: 15 mins
• Total Time: 25 mins
• Calories: 438 Calories

Ingredients

• ¼ cup orange marmalade
• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
• salt to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon ground cumin
• 1 pinch cayenne pepper
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh mint
• ½ teaspoon ground coriander
• ¼ teaspoon cinnamon
• 2 pounds lamb loin chops
• 1 teaspoon mixed herbs - Italian, Greek, or French blend
• 1 pinch hot chili flakes
• ½ tablespoon rice vinegar

Recipe Instructions

Step 1

Place lamb chops in a large bowl. Season with olive oil, garlic, cumin, mixed herbs, pepper, coriander, cinnamon, cayenne, and salt. Toss until well coated with oil and seasonings. Cover and refrigerate. Allow to marinate at least 4 hours.

Step 2

Preheat an outdoor grill for high heat and lightly oil the grate. Place lamb chops on grill. Sprinkle the chops with a bit of salt. Grill until seared on the first side, 4 to 7 minutes depending on the size of the chops. Rotate chops a half turn on the grill about a minute before turning them. Turn and grill the other side to desired doneness, another 4 to 7 minutes. For medium rare, an instant-read thermometer inserted into the center should bead 125 to 130 degrees F (54 degrees C). Transfer to a serving dish and tent loosely with foil.

Step 3

Place marmalade in bowl. Add chili flakes, mint, and rice vinegar. Stir together thoroughly.

Step 4

Brush the sauce over the chops and serve.