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
- Pour some vegetable oil on three paper napkins and place them in the center of the Arteflame grill.
- Stack firewood over the soaked napkins.
- Light the paper napkins and allow the fire to spread.
- 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
- In a bowl, combine melted butter, garlic, rosemary, salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, red pepper flakes, lemon juice, and Dijon mustard.
- Mix well to create a rich, aromatic marinade.
- Rub the marinade onto the lamb chops, ensuring even coverage.
- Let the chops rest at room temperature for 15-20 minutes.
Step 3: Sear the Lamb Chops
- Place the lamb chops on the center grill grate to sear at 1,000°F.
- Sear each side for about 1-2 minutes until a crust forms.
- Once seared, move the chops to the flat cooktop to continue cooking.
Step 4: Reverse Sear to Perfection
- Move the lamb chops to the cooler zone of the flat cooktop.
- Cook slowly, flipping occasionally, until internal temperature reaches 130°F for medium-rare.
- Remove the meat when the internal temperature is 115°F, as it will continue cooking after removal.
- Let the chops rest for at least 5 minutes before serving.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
- Arrange the lamb chops on a serving platter.
- Garnish with fresh rosemary and a drizzle of melted butter.
- 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
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Garlic-Herb: Add a mix of fresh thyme and parsley to the marinade for extra herbal notes.
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Spicy Piri Piri: Add 1 tbsp of Portuguese Piri Piri sauce to bring a spicy kick.
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Citrus Infused: Use orange zest and juice instead of lemon for a sweeter, citrusy profile.
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Honey Balsamic: Drizzle with a honey-balsamic glaze after grilling for a touch of sweetness.
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Mediterranean: Add oregano, sun-dried tomatoes, and feta cheese for a Mediterranean twist.
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!
Best Pairings
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Grilled Vegetables: Cook zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus on the flat cooktop.
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Portuguese Rice: Serve with traditional saffron-infused Portuguese rice.
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Red Wine: A bold Portuguese red wine like a Douro or Alentejo complements the dish.
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Crusty Bread: Serve with freshly grilled artisan bread, perfect for soaking up the juices.