Harissa-Spiced Lamb Chops

Succulent lamb chops marinated in fiery harissa paste and pan-seared to perfection with fresh thyme and butter. These Middle Eastern-inspired chops are finished with a sprinkle of ground cumin for an aromatic touch.

3 servings
2 hr 38 min

Ingredients

  • 6 pieces double-rib lamb chops, frenched
  • 2 tablespoons fiery harissa
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 sprigs fresh thyme
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 piece instant-read thermometer

Cooking Instructions

  1. 1.

    Pat chops dry and coat on all sides with harissa. Transfer to a glass or ceramic dish and marinate, covered and chilled, 2 hours.

    120 min

  2. 2.

    Sprinkle chops with salt. Heat oil in a 12-inch heavy skillet over moderate heat until hot but not smoking, then brown chops on all sides, 7 to 8 minutes total.

    8 min

  3. 3.

    Add butter and thyme and continue to cook, turning chops frequently with tongs and basting occasionally, until thermometer inserted between ribs to center of a chop (do not touch bone) registers 120 to 125°F for medium-rare, 15 to 18 minutes more. Transfer chops to a cutting board and let stand, uncovered, 10 minutes.

    28 min

  4. 4.

    Serve with ground cumin for sprinkling.

    2 min