Mutton Chops – A Flavorful Feast

Ingredients:

• 4 mutton chops (about 1-inch thick)
• 4 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 sprigs fresh rosemary
• 4 cloves garlic, crushed
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Optional accompaniments:
  • Mashed potatoes (increased recipe to serve 4)
  • Roasted vegetables (increased recipe to serve 4)
  • Couscous (increased recipe to serve 4)

Directions:

Step 1

Prep the Chops: Pat the mutton chops dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper on both sides.

Step 2

Heat It Up: Heat a cast iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan (or use two pans if necessary to accommodate all the chops comfortably) over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the olive oil (2 tablespoons per pan if using two pans).

Step 3

Searing Success: Carefully place the seasoned mutton chops in the hot pan(s) and sear for 4-5 minutes per side for a medium-rare doneness. For a different level of doneness, adjust the cooking time accordingly (around 1 minute less per side for rare, 1 minute more per side for medium). Cook the chops in batches if your pan isn’t large enough to hold all four comfortably.

Step 4

Flavor Boost: Once seared, add half the butter (1 tablespoon), 2 rosemary sprigs, and 2 crushed garlic cloves to each pan. Tilt the pan(s) slightly and spoon the melted butter over the chops, basting them for an additional 30 seconds to infuse them with extra flavor.

Step 5

Rest for Perfection: Remove the mutton chops from the pan(s) and transfer them to a plate. Tent them loosely with foil and let them rest for 5-7 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute for a more tender and flavorful chop.

Step 6

Serving Suggestions: While the chops rest, prepare your desired accompaniments in portions for 4. Once rested, serve the mutton chops hot with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, couscous, or your favorite side dish. Drizzle with pan juices for an extra burst of flavor.

Tips:

• Choose the Right Chops: Select mutton chops with good marbling for added flavor and tenderness.
• Don’t Overcook: Mutton chops benefit from a medium-rare or medium doneness to retain their unique flavor and juiciness.
• Let it Rest: The resting period is crucial for a juicy mutton chop.

Did you try this mutton chop recipe? Let us know how it turned out in the comments!

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