Delicious Lamb Chops with Vegetables Recipe

Introduction

At Love With Recipes, we believe that enjoying a nourishing, flavorful meal doesn’t mean sacrificing health or balance. This Lamb Chops with Vegetables recipe exemplifies that philosophy, offering a delicious, satisfying dish that is both low in calories and packed with vibrant flavors. Tender lamb shoulder chops are seared to perfection, then simmered with a medley of crunchy water chestnuts, fresh vegetables, and aromatic seasonings. The result is a harmonious blend of textures and tastes that will delight your palate while keeping your nutritional goals in check. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a light yet indulgent meal, this recipe is versatile, straightforward, and designed to satisfy without guilt.

Time

Preparation Time: Approximately 15 minutes

Cooking Time: About 45 minutes

Total Time: Approximately 1 hour

This allows for the lamb to become tender and the flavors to meld beautifully, making it an ideal dish for busy evenings or when you want a comforting meal with minimal fuss.

Needed Equipment

• Large skillet or frying pan with a lid
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Sharp knife for trimming and slicing
• Cutting board
• Small mixing bowl for cornstarch slurry
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula for stirring
• Can opener (for the water chestnuts)
• Serving utensils and plates

Tags

Chinese, Asian, Weeknight, Easy, Inexpensive, Healthy, Low Calorie, Meat, Lamb, Vegetables, Quick

Serving Size

This recipe yields approximately 4 servings, making it perfect for family dinners or meal prep for the week. Each serving provides a balanced portion of protein, vegetables, and flavorful broth.

Difficulty Level

Easy to Moderate. The steps involve basic cooking techniques such as searing, simmering, and thickening, suitable even for novice cooks with some experience in the kitchen.

Allergen Information

• Soy: Contains soy sauce
• Garlic: Contains garlic
• Possible cross-contact: Water chestnuts may be processed in facilities handling other allergens

Dietary Preference

Low-calorie, High-protein, Nut-Free, Dairy-Free, Grain-Free (if served without grains)

Course

Main Course, Protein-centric dish, Dinner

Cuisine

Asian, Chinese-inspired

Ingredients

Instructions

Step 1: Preparing the Lamb Chops

Begin by selecting high-quality shoulder lamb chops. These cuts are flavorful yet relatively lean, making them suitable for a healthy meal. Use a sharp knife to trim any excess visible fat, as trimming reduces overall fat content and makes the dish leaner. Proper trimming not only enhances the health profile but also prevents excess grease during cooking, ensuring a cleaner, more refined final presentation. Once trimmed, pat the chops dry with paper towels to remove moisture, which helps achieve a better sear.

Step 2: Searing the Lamb

Preheat a large skillet or frying pan over medium heat. Lightly grease the pan with a small amount of oil—preferably a neutral oil like canola or vegetable oil—to prevent sticking and promote even browning. Once the oil is shimmering, add the lamb chops carefully to the pan, avoiding overcrowding. Sear each side for approximately 3-4 minutes, or until a rich golden-brown crust develops. This process locks in juices and creates a flavorful exterior. Use tongs to flip the chops gently, ensuring even searing. If the pan becomes too hot or begins to smoke excessively, reduce the heat slightly to prevent burning.

Step 3: Removing Excess Fat and Preparing the Broth

After searing, transfer the lamb chops to a plate and set aside. Drain excess fat from the skillet, but retain about a tablespoon of rendered fat and juices, which will form the base of the flavorful broth. This step enhances the dish’s depth of flavor. Measure the reserved liquid from the can of water chestnuts. If the liquid is less than ¾ cup, add water to reach that volume, ensuring enough liquid for simmering and flavor extraction.

Step 4: Building the Flavor Base

Return the skillet to medium heat and pour in the reserved liquid from the water chestnuts. Add soy sauce for umami richness, beef bouillon cubes for savory depth, and minced garlic for aromatic pungency. Stir well, scraping the bottom of the pan to incorporate any browned bits—these are packed with flavor. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. This simmering step allows the aromatics to infuse the broth and tenderize the lamb further.

Step 5: Simmering the Lamb

Add sliced onion to the skillet. Cover with a lid and let the dish simmer gently for approximately 30 minutes, or until the lamb is tender. During this process, the flavors meld, and the lamb becomes fork-tender. Check occasionally to ensure the liquid level remains adequate, adding a splash of water if necessary. The slow simmer ensures the meat absorbs the savory broth and vegetables develop their full flavor.

Step 6: Preparing the Thickening Mixture

While the lamb simmers, prepare a cornstarch slurry by combining 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water in a small bowl. Whisk until smooth. This mixture will be used to thicken the sauce, giving it a glossy finish and rich texture. Keep the slurry nearby for easy addition later.

Step 7: Thicken the Sauce

Once the lamb is tender, remove it from the skillet and keep warm. Turn the heat to medium and gradually stir the cornstarch slurry into the simmering broth. Continue stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Cook until the sauce thickens and begins to bubble—this should take about 1-2 minutes. Allow it to boil for an additional minute to fully activate the thickening properties of the cornstarch.

Step 8: Incorporating Vegetables and Final Cooking

Stir in the diced green pepper, drained water chestnuts, and halved cherry tomatoes. These vegetables add crunch, sweetness, and color to the dish. Return the lamb chops to the skillet and cover. Simmer for an additional 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld, the vegetables to soften slightly, and the lamb to reabsorb some of the sauce. This gentle simmer ensures the dish remains tender and flavorful while maintaining the desired textures of the vegetables.

Step 9: Serving

Once the final simmering is complete, taste the sauce and adjust seasoning if desired—consider a splash more soy sauce or a pinch of salt. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if preferred. This dish pairs beautifully with steamed rice, noodles, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. The combination of tender lamb, crunchy vegetables, and savory broth makes for a wholesome, satisfying meal that is both light and hearty.

Preparation Tips

• Choosing Lamb: Opt for lamb shoulder chops for their balance of flavor and tenderness. Always select fresh, high-quality meat for the best results.
• Trimming: Removing excess fat before cooking prevents greasiness and ensures a leaner dish suitable for health-conscious eaters.
• Sealing the Flavors: Achieving a good sear is key to developing rich flavors. Don’t rush this step; proper browning enhances the overall taste.
• Simmering: Low and slow cooking tenderizes the meat and allows flavors to meld beautifully. Use a covered skillet to retain moisture.
• Thickening: The cornstarch slurry should be added gradually, stirring constantly, to achieve a smooth, glossy sauce.

Nutritional Information

Tips and Tricks

• Flavor Boosters: Add a splash of rice vinegar or a dash of sesame oil at the end for extra depth.
• Vegetable Variations: Feel free to swap green peppers and cherry tomatoes with broccoli florets, snap peas, or carrots for variety.
• Spice Level: Incorporate red pepper flakes or fresh ginger to add heat and complexity.
• Make Ahead: Prepare the broth and chop vegetables in advance; reheat and assemble quickly before serving.
• Adjusting Calories: Use leaner cuts of lamb or substitute with chicken breast for even lower-calorie options.

Add-ons

• Fresh herbs like cilantro or scallions for garnish
• Sesame seeds sprinkled over the top
• Serve alongside steamed jasmine rice or brown rice for a more filling meal
• Additional vegetables such as bok choy or mushrooms can be added during simmering

Side Dishes

• Steamed jasmine or basmati rice
• Stir-fried noodles with vegetables
• Simple mixed greens salad with Asian vinaigrette
• Steamed or roasted broccoli florets
• Spring rolls or Asian-style dumplings for a complete meal

Improvements

• Use homemade or reduced-sodium soy sauce to control salt intake.
• Add a splash of fish sauce for umami depth, especially if you enjoy more complex flavors.
• Incorporate fresh herbs like basil or mint before serving for a fresh aroma.
• Include a variety of seasonal vegetables for a colorful presentation and added nutrients.
• Experiment with different cuts of lamb, such as rib chops or loin, for varied textures.

Save and Store

If you have leftovers, store the cooled dish in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to restore moisture. This dish reheats well, and the flavors often deepen overnight, making it an excellent option for meal prep. For longer storage, freeze in portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQ

Can I substitute lamb with chicken or beef?

Yes, you can substitute lamb with chicken breast or beef sirloin for a different but equally delicious variation. Adjust cooking times accordingly—chicken will cook faster, so keep an eye to prevent overcooking.

Is this dish suitable for a low-sodium diet?

While soy sauce is inherently salty, you can opt for low-sodium versions or use a smaller amount. Additionally, homemade broths or water can replace soy sauce for a reduced-salt approach.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Absolutely. Use gluten-free soy sauce or coconut aminos to make the dish suitable for gluten-sensitive diets. Ensure all other ingredients, such as bouillon cubes, are gluten-free.

What are some variations to spice it up?

Add red pepper flakes, sliced fresh ginger, or a dash of chili oil during the simmering process for a spicy kick. Fresh chili peppers can also be included for heat.

Conclusion

This Lamb Chops with Vegetables recipe is a testament to how flavorful, wholesome, and satisfying meals can be achieved with simple ingredients and straightforward techniques. By balancing the richness of lamb with crisp vegetables and aromatic seasonings, you create a dish that is both nourishing and indulgent without excess calories. Perfect for health-conscious individuals, busy families, or anyone seeking a comforting yet light meal, this recipe embodies the essence of balanced eating. Remember to visit Love With Recipes for more culinary inspiration, tips, and delicious recipes designed to elevate your home cooking experience. Embrace the art of healthy indulgence with this exceptional lamb dish—delight your senses and nourish your body today.

References

For more insights on low-calorie cooking and Asian-inspired dishes, consider consulting sources such as The Asian Kitchen by David Thompson and Healthy Cooking Made Easy by Jessica Seinfeld.