Sizzling Portuguese Grilled Lamb Chops with Rosemary & Garlic

Introduction

There is something undeniably magical about the scent of rosemary hitting hot iron, instantly evoking the rustic, sun-drenched hills of the Iberian Peninsula. This recipe for Portuguese Grilled Lamb Chops captures that authentic seaside essence, bringing bold flavors right to your backyard. By utilizing the unique heat zones of an Arteflame grill, we can achieve that perfect, restaurant-quality sear while ensuring the meat remains tender and succulent on the inside. The secret lies in the simplicity of the ingredients: the robust punch of fresh garlic, the earthy aroma of rosemary, and high-quality lamb. Whether you are hosting an elegant summer dinner party or treating yourself to a sophisticated weeknight meal, these chops promise a culinary journey to Portugal with every bite. Let’s fire up the grill and create a meal that is as unforgettable as it is delicious.

Ingredients

• 8 to 12 Lamb chops (rib or loin chops), about 1 inch thick
• 1/4 cup Extra virgin olive oil
• 4 cloves Garlic, minced or crushed
• 2 tablespoons Fresh rosemary leaves, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon Coarse sea salt (plus more for finishing)
• 1/2 teaspoon Freshly ground black pepper
• 1 tablespoon Red wine vinegar (optional, for a traditional Portuguese acidic kick)
• Lemon wedges (for serving)
• Fresh rosemary sprigs (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

1. In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil and the red wine vinegar.
2. Add the minced garlic, chopped fresh rosemary, coarse sea salt, and black pepper to the oil mixture.
3. Stir vigorously to combine the flavors, pressing the herbs slightly to release their natural oils.

Step 2: Marinate the Lamb

1. Pat the lamb chops dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture, which helps ensure a better sear.
2. Place the chops in a large shallow dish or a resealable plastic bag.
3. Pour the marinade over the lamb, massaging it into the meat to ensure every chop is evenly coated.
4. Cover or seal and let marinate at room temperature for 30 minutes, or refrigerate for up to 4 hours for a deeper flavor profile.

Step 3: Fire Up the Arteflame

1. Start a fire in the center of your Arteflame grill using charcoal or wood.
2. Allow the grill to heat up for about 15 to 20 minutes. You want the center grill grate to be searing hot (over 600°F) and the flat cooktop to reach a medium-high heat.
3. Lightly oil the flat cooktop surface to prevent sticking, although the marinade usually provides enough oil.

Step 4: Sear and Grill

1. Remove the lamb chops from the marinade, shaking off any excess dripping oil to prevent flare-ups.
2. Place the chops directly onto the hot flat cooktop, arranging them closer to the center for a high-heat sear.
3. Sear undisturbed for about 2-3 minutes per side until a rich, golden-brown crust forms.
4. If you prefer a char, move the chops onto the center grill grate for the last minute of cooking.

Step 5: Rest and Serve

1. Check the internal temperature; aim for 130°F (54°C) for medium-rare or 140°F (60°C) for medium.
2. Remove the chops from the grill and transfer them to a warm platter.
3. Let the meat rest for 5 to 10 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute throughout the chops.
4. Garnish with fresh rosemary sprigs and serve with lemon wedges on the side.

Tips

To achieve the absolute best results with your Portuguese lamb chops, always bring the meat to room temperature before grilling. Grilling cold meat can lead to uneven cooking and can tighten the muscle fibers, resulting in a tougher texture. Additionally, pay close attention to the garlic in the marinade. When grilling at high temperatures on the Arteflame, minced garlic can burn quickly and become bitter. If you plan on searing firmly on the center grate, consider wiping off large chunks of garlic right before cooking, or stick to the flat cooktop where you have more control over the heat. Finally, do not skip the resting period. Cutting into the chops immediately after grilling will cause those precious, flavorful juices to run out onto the plate rather than staying inside the meat where they belong.

Variations

While the classic rosemary and garlic combination is timeless, Portuguese cuisine offers a variety of flavor profiles you can explore. You can easily adapt this recipe to suit your palate or to match the sides you are serving. Here are a few authentic ways to twist the recipe:

• Spicy Piri-Piri Lamb: Add a teaspoon of crushed piri-piri peppers or chili flakes to the marinade for a fiery kick.
• Citrus Herb Crust: Add lemon zest and chopped parsley to the rosemary mixture for a brighter, fresher flavor profile.
• Douro Style: Incorporate a splash of dry white wine into the marinade instead of vinegar for a subtler acidity.
• Smoked Paprika Rub: Dust the chops with Portuguese smoked paprika (Pimentón) before grilling for a smoky, deep red crust.
• Minted Yogurt Finish: Skip the lemon wedge and serve with a side of cool mint and yogurt sauce to balance the char.

Best pairings

A dish as flavorful as these grilled lamb chops deserves sides that can stand up to the robust taste of rosemary and garlic without overpowering the meat. In Portugal, potatoes are a staple accompaniment. Try serving these chops with "Batatas a Murro" (punched potatoes)—roasted small potatoes that are lightly smashed and topped with olive oil and garlic. Fresh, crisp greens also work wonders to cut through the richness of the lamb; a simple arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette or grilled asparagus prepared right on the Arteflame alongside the meat makes for a cohesive plate. For the wine enthusiasts, a bold Portuguese red from the Douro Valley or a structured Cabernet Sauvignon pairs beautifully, mirroring the earthy notes of the herbs and the char of the grill.

Conclusion

Mastering these Portuguese Grilled Lamb Chops is about more than just following a recipe; it is about embracing the joy of open-fire cooking. The Arteflame grill provides the perfect canvas for this dish, allowing the rosemary and garlic to caramelize beautifully against the tender meat. This recipe is proof that you don’t need a complicated list of ingredients to create a meal that tastes luxurious and gourmet. With just a few fresh herbs, quality olive oil, and the right technique, you can bring the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean coast to your table. Gather your friends, pour the wine, and enjoy the simple, rustic elegance of this delicious lamb dish.