Savory Lamb Chops with Middle Eastern Rice
If you’re looking for a quick yet flavorful meal that brings a taste of the Middle East right to your table, then this recipe for Lamb Chops with Middle Eastern Rice is just what you need. The tender lamb chops, seasoned with a medley of herbs and spices, are perfectly complemented by the aromatic and savory rice dish. This recipe offers a simple yet elegant way to enjoy lamb, and the rice serves as a versatile side that pairs beautifully with other dishes as well.
Ingredients
For the Lamb Chops:
- 4 to 8 lamb loin chops
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried sage
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1 teaspoon garlic granules
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
For the Middle Eastern Rice:
- 1 cup white rice
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/4 cup golden raisins
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1/2 teaspoon fennel seeds
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1/2 teaspoon curry powder
- 1/2 teaspoon anise seed
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup sunflower seeds or pine nuts
- 2 cups water
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
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Prepare the Lamb Chops:
Begin by preheating your broiler. While the broiler is heating, take the lamb loin chops and season them generously on both sides with salt, pepper, dried thyme, dried sage, dried parsley, garlic granules, and dried rosemary. Drizzle the extra virgin olive oil over the chops to help the seasonings adhere.
Place the seasoned lamb chops under the broiler. Broil them for about 5-7 minutes on one side or until they are nicely browned and caramelized. Flip the chops, season the other side, and continue broiling for another 5-7 minutes or until the other side is browned as well. The exact timing will depend on the thickness of the chops and your broiler’s intensity. Once done, transfer the lamb chops to a serving dish and set them aside.
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Cook the Middle Eastern Rice:
While the lamb chops are broiling, rinse the white rice under cold water until the water runs clear. In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of water to a boil. Add the rice, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer according to the package instructions, usually about 18 minutes.
Once the rice is cooked, remove it from the heat and let it sit, covered, for a few minutes. Meanwhile, melt the butter in a small skillet over medium heat. Add the cumin, fennel seeds, dried rosemary, curry powder, anise seed, and sugar. Stir these spices together until they become fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
Add the spice mixture to the cooked rice, along with the golden raisins, lime juice, and salt and pepper to taste. Mix well. Crack the eggs into a bowl and whisk them lightly. Stir the beaten eggs into the rice, continuing to cook over medium heat until the eggs are fully cooked and scrambled into the rice, about 3-4 minutes.
For a final touch, sprinkle the crushed sunflower seeds or pine nuts over the rice and gently fold them in. Fluff the rice with a fork to ensure everything is well combined and to give it a light, airy texture.
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Serve and Enjoy:
Transfer the Middle Eastern rice to a serving dish, fluffing it again if needed. Serve alongside the beautifully broiled lamb chops. The lamb’s robust flavors and the rice’s aromatic spices will blend harmoniously, creating a delightful and satisfying meal.
This dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion when you want to impress your guests with minimal effort. Enjoy the wonderful combination of flavors and the ease of preparation that this recipe offers!
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 1815.1
- Total Fat: 88.1 grams
- Saturated Fat: 33.5 grams
- Cholesterol: 382.6 milligrams
- Sodium: 292.2 milligrams
- Carbohydrates: 195.7 grams
- Fiber: 14 grams
- Sugars: 25 grams
- Protein: 61.4 grams
This meal makes for a hearty and fulfilling option that’s not only delicious but also packed with a great balance of flavors and nutrients. Enjoy every bite of this savory and aromatic Middle Eastern-inspired dish! 🌟🍴
