Lamb Chops Recipe – Cilantro-Mint Marinade & Grill Secrets

Last Updated on 4 months by Neha Deshmukh

Lamb Chops Recipe – Cilantro-Mint Marinade & Grill Secrets

Hey everyone! If you’re craving something a little different, a little vibrant, and totally delicious, you’ve come to the right place. I’m sharing my go-to recipe for grilled lamb chops marinated in a bright, herbaceous cilantro-mint blend. It’s a flavor explosion that’s surprisingly easy to make, and it always impresses. I first made these for a small get-together with friends, and they were gone in minutes!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These lamb chops aren’t just about incredible flavor; they’re about a feeling. That feeling of a warm evening, good company, and a meal that just hits the spot. The marinade tenderizes the lamb beautifully, and the combination of cilantro, mint, and warming spices is seriously addictive. Plus, grilling brings out a smoky char that takes everything to the next level.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create this magic:

• 1 lb lamb chops
• 1 cup Greek yogurt
• ?? cup cilantro, roughly chopped
• 10 mint leaves, roughly chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• ?? jalapeno, seeded and minced (adjust to your spice preference!)
• ?? teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• ?? teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• ?? cup olive oil
• Salt to taste

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk ingredients for a sec – a few little things that make a big difference:

• Greek Yogurt: Don’t skip this! The lactic acid in Greek yogurt is a natural tenderizer, making even slightly tougher cuts of lamb incredibly juicy. Full-fat yogurt works best for richness.
• Garam Masala: This isn’t a single spice, but a blend! Regional variations exist, so feel free to use your favorite. Some blends are warmer, others more floral. It really adds depth.
• Jalapeno: This is where you control the heat. Remove the seeds and membranes for a milder flavor, or leave some in if you like a kick. I usually start with half a jalapeno and taste as I go.
• Cilantro & Mint: Freshness is key here. These herbs are the stars of the marinade, so use vibrant, fragrant leaves. If you’re not a cilantro fan (it’s genetic!), see the FAQs for substitution ideas.

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get cooking!

1. First, let’s make that amazing marinade. Combine the Greek yogurt, cilantro, mint, garlic, jalapeno, turmeric, cumin, coriander, garam masala, and salt in a blender. Blend until it’s super smooth – you want every bit of flavor packed in there.
2. Now, grab your lamb chops. Using a small, sharp paring knife, create a few small slits on both sides of each chop. This helps the marinade penetrate and work its magic.
3. Coat those chops generously with the marinade. Make sure every nook and cranny is covered. Then, pop them into a container or zip-top bag and refrigerate for at least 3-4 hours. Longer is even better – the flavors just meld together beautifully.
4. About 30 minutes before you’re ready to grill, take the lamb out of the fridge. Letting it come to room temperature helps it cook more evenly. Brush the chops lightly with olive oil.
5. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 400°F or 200°C). Lightly grease the grill grates to prevent sticking.
6. Grill the lamb chops for 2-4 minutes per side, depending on your desired level of doneness. Use a meat thermometer to check – 145°F (63°C) for rare, 160°F (71°C) for well-done.
7. Finally, let the lamb rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful chop.

Expert Tips

• Don’t overcrowd the grill! This lowers the temperature and can result in steamed, rather than grilled, lamb.
• A meat thermometer is your best friend. It takes the guesswork out of cooking lamb to perfection.
• For extra flavor, add a tablespoon of lemon juice to the marinade.

Variations

Want to switch things up? Here are a few ideas:

• Spice Level Adjustments: If you’re sensitive to heat, reduce or omit the jalapeno. For more heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the marinade.
• Slow Cooker Adaptation: If grilling isn’t an option, you can cook these in a slow cooker! Place the marinated lamb chops in the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
• Regional Indian Marinades: Explore different regional Indian marinades! Try adding ginger-garlic paste, or using a tandoori spice blend. My aunt always adds a touch of mango powder for a tangy twist.
• Different Cuts of Lamb: This marinade works well with lamb loin chops, rib chops, or even leg of lamb (cut into smaller pieces).

Serving Suggestions

These lamb chops are incredibly versatile. Here are a few of my favorite ways to serve them:

• Warm naan bread – perfect for soaking up all those delicious juices.
• A comforting bowl of dal (lentils).
• A fresh, vibrant salad with a lemon-herb vinaigrette.
• Steamed basmati rice.

Storage Instructions

Leftovers? Lucky you! Store any leftover lamb chops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave.

FAQs

Let’s answer some common questions:

1. What is the best cut of lamb for grilling?

Lamb loin chops and rib chops are fantastic for grilling. They’re tender and flavorful. Shoulder chops are also good, but may require a longer marinating time.

2. Can I marinate the lamb chops overnight?

Absolutely! Marinating overnight will result in even more flavorful and tender lamb. Just be sure to use a non-reactive container (glass or plastic).

3. How do I know when the lamb chops are cooked to the correct temperature?

A meat thermometer is the most reliable way. Aim for 145°F (63°C) for rare, 160°F (71°C) for medium, or 170°F (77°C) for well-done.

4. What is Garam Masala and where can I find it?

Garam masala is a blend of warming spices commonly used in Indian cuisine. You can find it in most supermarkets in the spice aisle, or at Indian grocery stores.

5. Can I use a different herb instead of cilantro?

If you’re not a fan of cilantro, you can try using parsley or mint as a substitute, though the flavor will be different.

6. What side dishes pair well with these lamb chops for a complete Indian meal?

Naan, dal, raita (yogurt dip), and a simple cucumber salad are all excellent choices!

Enjoy! I hope you love this recipe as much as I do. Let me know in the comments how it turns out for you.