Portuguese Grilled Lamb Chops with Rosemary

Introduction

Savor the rich flavors of Portuguese cuisine with these perfectly grilled lamb chops infused with fresh rosemary and garlic. Cooked to perfection on the Arteflame grill, this dish delivers a steakhouse-quality sear and unmatched tenderness. Using the reverse searing method, the chops first get a flavorful crust over the center grill grate before finishing gently on the flat cooktop for a juicy, mouthwatering result. Perfect for any occasion, this recipe brings out the essence of wood-fired cooking and is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

• 8 lamb chops
• 2 tbsp butter, melted
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped
• 1 tbsp sea salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Arteflame Grill

1. Pour some vegetable oil on three paper napkins and place them in the center of the Arteflame grill.
2. Stack firewood over the soaked napkins.
3. Light the paper napkins and allow the fire to spread.
4. Wait approximately 20 minutes until the grill reaches optimal cooking temperature, with the center grill grate exceeding 1,000°F.

Step 2: Prepare the Marinade

1. In a bowl, combine melted butter, garlic, rosemary, salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, red pepper flakes, lemon juice, and Dijon mustard.
2. Mix well to create a rich, aromatic marinade.
3. Rub the marinade onto the lamb chops, ensuring even coverage.
4. Let the chops rest at room temperature for 15-20 minutes.

Step 3: Sear the Lamb Chops

1. Place the lamb chops on the center grill grate to sear at 1,000°F.
2. Sear each side for about 1-2 minutes until a crust forms.
3. Once seared, move the chops to the flat cooktop to continue cooking.

Step 4: Reverse Sear to Perfection

1. Move the lamb chops to the cooler zone of the flat cooktop.
2. Cook slowly, flipping occasionally, until internal temperature reaches 130°F for medium-rare.
3. Remove the meat when the internal temperature is 115°F, as it will continue cooking after removal.
4. Let the chops rest for at least 5 minutes before serving.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

1. Arrange the lamb chops on a serving platter.
2. Garnish with fresh rosemary and a drizzle of melted butter.
3. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Tips

• Let the lamb chops sit at room temperature for 20 minutes before grilling for even cooking.
• Use a meat thermometer to ensure the perfect internal temperature.
• For a more intense rosemary flavor, place rosemary sprigs on the flat cooktop and cook the lamb chops on top.
• Use high-quality firewood for the best smoky aroma.
• Pair with grilled vegetables on the cooktop for a complete meal.

Variations

1. Garlic-Herb: Add a mix of fresh thyme and parsley to the marinade for extra herbal notes.
2. Spicy Piri Piri: Add 1 tbsp of Portuguese Piri Piri sauce to bring a spicy kick.
3. Citrus Infused: Use orange zest and juice instead of lemon for a sweeter, citrusy profile.
4. Honey Balsamic: Drizzle with a honey-balsamic glaze after grilling for a touch of sweetness.
5. Mediterranean: Add oregano, sun-dried tomatoes, and feta cheese for a Mediterranean twist.

Best Pairings

• Grilled Vegetables: Cook zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus on the flat cooktop.
• Portuguese Rice: Serve with traditional saffron-infused Portuguese rice.
• Red Wine: A bold Portuguese red wine like a Douro or Alentejo complements the dish.
• Crusty Bread: Serve with freshly grilled artisan bread, perfect for soaking up the juices.

Conclusion

These Portuguese Grilled Lamb Chops with Rosemary bring steakhouse-quality flavor straight to your backyard with the Arteflame grill. The combination of a high-temperature sear and slow cooking results in a juicy, flavorful cut of meat that is truly irresistible. This recipe is simple, yet rich in Portuguese tradition, making it a perfect dish for gatherings or special occasions. Grill, enjoy, and savor every bite!