These Grilled Orange and Za’atar Lamb Chops are not your average chop. They boast a flavor combination that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you wanting more. The marinade infuses the lamb with smoky-sweet orange, earthy za’atar, and a hint of heat from the chili powder. The zesty yogurt sauce with fresh mint adds a refreshing counterpoint to the richness of the lamb.
Dinnertime disaster. Again. Standing in the fridge, staring at the same tired options – chicken, fish, the questionable container of leftover stir-fry. My creativity was officially bankrupt. Just as I was about to resign myself to another bland meal, a memory sparked. Last summer, at a friend’s barbecue, I tasted something life-changing: Grilled lamb chops marinated in this magical blend of spices. The smoky char, the juicy meat, the burst of citrus – it was a flavor symphony that haunted me ever since. Tonight, I decided, would be the night I recreated that magic.
This recipe for Grilled Orange and Za’atar Lamb Chops isn’t just about the deliciousness (although, let’s be honest, that’s a pretty big selling point). It’s about the rescue mission it launched – rescuing me from another boring dinner rut, and rescuing lamb chops from the realm of the ordinary. So, ditch the tired routine and get ready to transform your taste buds. These chops are about to become your new weeknight hero.
Here’s why you’ll love this recipe:
- Easy and flavorful marinade: Just a few simple ingredients create a symphony of taste in the lamb.
- Zesty yogurt sauce: Cool and creamy with a burst of citrus and mint, this sauce perfectly complements the savory chops.
- Quick and impressive: This dish comes together in under an hour, making it perfect for a weeknight meal that feels fancy.
Ready to get grilling? Here’s what you’ll need:
Ingredients:
- 8 Lamb Chops
- 9 tablespoons Yogurt
- 1 ½ tablespoons Za’atar
- 1 ½ teaspoons Chili Powder
- 1 Orange
- 4 Cloves Garlic, grated
- Freshly ground Black Pepper
- Salt
- Olive Oil
- 1 handful Mint, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 Lemon
Here’s how to make it:
- Marinate the Lamb: In a bowl, combine 4 tablespoons of yogurt, za’atar, chili powder, zest of half the orange, grated garlic, salt, pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil. Add the lamb chops and toss to coat evenly. Cover and marinate for 30 minutes.
- Whip up the Zesty Sauce: In a separate bowl, combine the remaining yogurt, chopped mint (reserve some for garnish), zest of the other half of the orange, a squeeze of orange and lemon juice, salt, pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil. Stir well and refrigerate until ready to serve.
- Get Grilling: Heat a griddle pan or grill to high heat. Cook the lamb chops for 5 minutes per side, or until cooked through and nicely charred.
- Plate and Enjoy: Serve the lamb chops drizzled with the zesty yogurt sauce. Garnish with the reserved chopped mint, a sprinkle of orange zest, and a pinch of chili powder for an extra kick.
Tips
- If you don’t have za’atar, you can substitute with a mixture of equal parts sesame seeds, thyme, oregano, and sumac.
- For thicker yogurt sauce, use Greek yogurt.
- Like your lamb chops extra pink? Reduce the cooking time to 4 minutes per side.
These Grilled Orange and Za’atar Lamb Chops are sure to become a new favorite. The combination of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors is irresistible, and the yogurt sauce adds a cool and refreshing touch. So fire up the grill and get ready to experience a flavor explosion!
