Tired of the same old weeknight dinners? Craving something flavorful, tender, and surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further! This Crock Pot Lamb Chop recipe is your new go-to for a delicious and healthy meal that requires minimal effort. Imagine succulent, fall-off-the-bone lamb chops, infused with aromatic herbs and spices, ready to be devoured after a long day. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, offering a healthy and satisfying alternative to takeout. Let's get cooking!
Ingredients:
- 4 bone-in lamb chops (about 1 inch thick)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Lamb Chops: Pat the lamb chops dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, rosemary, and thyme. This step is crucial for developing a flavorful crust.
Step 2: Sear the Lamb Chops (Optional but Recommended): For extra flavor and a beautiful browned exterior, heat the olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the lamb chops for 2-3 minutes per side, until nicely browned. This step isn't strictly necessary, but it significantly enhances the overall taste.
Step 3: Crock Pot Magic: Place the seared (or unseared) lamb chops in the bottom of your slow cooker. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the slow cooker. Pour the chicken broth over everything.
Step 4: Slow Cook to Perfection: Cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the lamb chops are fork-tender. The cooking time will depend on the thickness of your chops and your slow cooker.
Step 5: Final Touches: Once the lamb chops are cooked, remove them from the slow cooker and let them rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. Skim off any excess fat from the cooking liquid. Stir in the lemon juice. You can thicken the sauce slightly by mixing 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water and whisking it into the cooking liquid during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Tips for Success:
- Choosing Lamb Chops: Opt for good quality lamb chops with a nice layer of fat. The fat renders during cooking, resulting in incredibly juicy and tender meat.
- Don't Overcook: Lamb chops are best served medium-rare to medium. Overcooked lamb can be tough and dry. Use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach your desired internal temperature (130-140°F for medium-rare, 140-145°F for medium).
- Customize Your Spices: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to suit your taste. Consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat, or some fresh herbs like parsley or mint at the end.
Variations:
- Mediterranean Lamb Chops: Add 1/4 cup of chopped Kalamata olives, 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese, and a sprinkle of oregano to the slow cooker during the last hour of cooking.
- Garlic Herb Lamb Chops: Increase the amount of garlic and add a sprig of fresh rosemary and thyme to the slow cooker.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 30-35g
- Fat: Approximately 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 5-10g
This Crock Pot Lamb Chops recipe is a testament to the power of slow cooking. It's a simple, healthy, and incredibly flavorful dish that's perfect for a weeknight meal or a special occasion. Enjoy!