Curried Saratoga Lamb Chops
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Description:
Curried Saratoga Lamb Chops bring together tender lamb shoulder chops, golden apricots, and a flavorful curry sauce, creating a dish thatโs rich in taste and texture. These succulent lamb chops, seasoned to perfection, are simmered in a spiced curry sauce that blends sweet apricots with savory spices. Itโs a delightful meal that pairs perfectly with a fluffy bed of rice, making it an excellent choice for family dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Lamb chops (about 1 to 1.5 inches thick) | 6 pieces |
| Shortening or cooking oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Salt | To taste |
| Black pepper | To taste |
| Lemon juice | 1 tablespoon |
| Green onion, chopped | 1 stalk |
| Curry powder | 1/4 cup |
| Cornstarch | 1 tablespoon |
| Water | 1/2 cup |
| Cooked rice | 1 cup (for serving) |
| Apricots, drained (with syrup reserved) | 1 can (about 6 oz) |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 813 kcal |
| Total Fat | 59.3 g |
| Saturated Fat | 24.5 g |
| Cholesterol | 140.6 mg |
| Sodium | 114.7 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 38.2 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 2.9 g |
| Sugars | 32.2 g |
| Protein | 32.1 g |
Instructions
-
Prepare Apricots: Begin by draining the apricots from the can, reserving the syrup for later use. Set both the apricots and syrup aside.
-
Brown the Lamb Chops: Heat 2 tablespoons of shortening or oil in a frying pan or skillet over medium heat. Add the lamb chops to the pan and brown them on all sides, seasoning with salt and black pepper as they cook. This should take about 4โ5 minutes per side, depending on the thickness of the chops.
-
Remove Excess Fat: Once the lamb chops are browned, drain any excess fat from the pan to avoid a greasy sauce later on.
-
Prepare the Curry Sauce: In a small bowl, combine the reserved apricot syrup, lemon juice, chopped green onions, and curry powder. Mix well to form a flavorful curry sauce.
-
Simmer the Lamb Chops: Pour the curry sauce mixture over the lamb chops in the pan. Cover the pan with a lid, reduce the heat to low, and let it simmer for 40โ45 minutes. This allows the lamb chops to become tender and absorb the curry flavors.
-
Thicken the Sauce: While the lamb chops are simmering, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of cold water in a small bowl. Once the lamb chops have finished cooking, remove them from the pan and keep them warm. Stir the cornstarch mixture into the curry sauce, cooking and stirring until the sauce thickens and becomes bubbly, which should take 2โ3 minutes.
-
Add Apricots: Stir the drained apricots into the sauce and heat them through. The apricots will soften slightly and add a sweet, fruity flavor to the rich curry sauce.
-
Serve: To serve, place a bed of freshly cooked rice on each plate. Arrange the lamb chops on top and generously spoon the curried apricot sauce over the chops. This dish pairs beautifully with a side of steamed vegetables or a simple green salad.
Tips for Success:
- Lamb Chop Alternatives: If you canโt find Saratoga lamb chops, you can substitute with other lamb cuts, such as loin chops or rib chops. Just be sure to adjust cooking time depending on the thickness and tenderness of the cut.
- Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian twist, consider substituting the lamb with thick slices of eggplant or another hearty vegetable like cauliflower, and follow the same method for preparing the curry sauce.
- Make Ahead: This dish is perfect for preparing in advance. The lamb chops can be browned and simmered in the curry sauce, then stored in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat gently and thicken the sauce just before serving.
Serve With:
- Steamed jasmine rice, couscous, or quinoa.
- A light cucumber salad with a tangy yogurt dressing.
- Roasted or steamed vegetables such as green beans, carrots, or broccoli.
Curried Saratoga Lamb Chops is a comforting and elegant dish that brings vibrant flavors and tender meat to the table. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight meal or a special gathering, itโs sure to impress your guests with its balance of sweet, savory, and spiced flavors. Enjoy every bite!
